The Legendary Cherry Blossoms of Inaho Takato Castle Ruins 🌸⛩️

#cherryblossom25 About Takato Castle Takato Castle, with a rich historical backdrop, traces its origins to the Sengoku period during the time of Takeda Shingen and his conquest of Shinano. As a critical strategic point, Takato Castle was entrusted to trusted commanders like Akiyama Nobutomo, Suwa Katsuyoshi, and Nishina Morinobu. One of the most notable battles in Takato’s history is the Battle of Takato Castle. During the Kōshū Campaign, the Takeda forces, overwhelmed by the advancing Oda army, largely retreated. However, the castle lord Nishina Morinobu (one of Shingen’s five sons) led a valiant defense with just a handful of soldiers against Oda Nobutada’s troops, ultimately resulting in a tragic yet heroic end to Takeda’s final battle. Today, Nishina Morinobu is enshrined as the "New Castle God" at Fujiwara Shrine located on the castle grounds. After the Edo period, the castle site saw changes under several feudal families, including the Kyōgoku, Hōsaka, and Torii families. With the Meiji Restoration, the castle was abandoned, and most of the structures were sold off. However, the cherry blossoms now filling the ruins owe their existence to the decision of former Takato clan retainers who transplanted sakura trees here. Today, 150 years later, these trees bloom every spring, turning the area into a famous cherry blossom destination, attracting countless visitors. Travel Tips: By bus: From Ina Station, take a bus to Takato Station (around 590 yen). Please note that the buses run infrequently, so make sure to confirm the timetable in advance. Whether you're a history buff or a cherry blossom enthusiast, Takato Castle Ruins offers both a glimpse into Japan’s past and a breathtaking springtime spectacle. 🌸 #travel