
Hirosaki Castle Park: Experience the allure of Hirosaki starting with a picturesque 90-minute drive to Hirosaki Castle Park. The original castle, built in 1611, unfortunately lost to fire in 1627, but its 1810 reconstruction preserves its storied past amidst the serene landscapes of the park. Explore the expansive 121-acre grounds, a celebrated location for Japan’s cherry blossom festival, where stunning views and historical charm await.
Festival Floats: Discover the captivating floats of Hirosaki’s renowned Neputa Matsuri, celebrated in the first week of August. With their intricate designs featuring mythological warriors and grim battles on one side and elegant women on the other, these two-dimensional, fan-shaped floats provide a fascinating glimpse into Japanese tradition.
Garden Stroll: Wrap up your experience at the historic Seibi-en Japanese Garden, a National Scenic Spot, and enjoy a leisurely walk through its stunning fountains, waterfalls, and traditional pagodas.
Accessibility: This tour may not be suitable for individuals with walking mobility difficulties. It includes a 1.5 km walk from Hirosaki Castle Park to Neputa Village. The walking paths at Hirosaki Castle Park are primarily flat and consist of bare ground. However, please be aware that Hirosaki Castle does not have elevators, and accessing the upper floors involves navigating approximately 30 steep stairs, which can be difficult for some. Furthermore, some areas of Seibi-en Garden feature uneven surfaces and require a few steps to manage.
Requirements & Restrictions: Japanese yen are required for any additional purchases.
Good to Know: Hirosaki Castle tower is currently undergoing significant renovations to repair the stone walls that support the structure, which were at risk of collapsing. While the interior of the castle remains open to the public during this renovation period, please note that it is closed annually for winter from November 24th to March 31st. During this winter closure, visitors can still enjoy the exterior views of the castle and the surrounding grounds. Please note that Hirosaki Castle Park will be crowded during the cherry blossom festival, and bloom timing depends on weather conditions. Tour order is subject to change.