[Japan's 100 Famous Castles] <4 Hirosaki Castle>

Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival is only held three days a year Hirosaki Castle is most famous for its cherry blossoms. Not only is it one of the 100 most famous cherry blossom spots in Japan (the largest in scale and also the oldest Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms), and one of the 100 most famous scenic spots, it is also the northernmost castle among the 12 existing castle towers. It was the residence of the Tsugaru clan and was built by Tsugaru Nobuhira. It was originally called "Takaoka Castle", but later the place name was changed to "Hirosaki" at the suggestion of Nankobo Amami, and the name of the castle was also changed to Hirosaki Castle. Although it is one of the 12 existing castle towers, the original five-story tower was burned down when the castle was built, and what remains now is the three-story turret built later. Transportation: Take the 100 yen bus from JR Ou Main Line Hirosaki Station to Shiyakusho-mae and walk for 3 minutes. Alternatively, walk for about 30 minutes from JR Hirosaki Station.