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Matsumae Park: A Historical Haven of Cherry Blossoms

Discover historic Matsumae Park in Hokkaido: Japan's northernmost castle & 10,000 cherry trees bloom late April to late May.

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Matsumae Park, located in Matsumae, Hokkaido, is a renowned historical site and one of Japan's top cherry blossom viewing destinations. Home to Matsumae Castle, the northernmost castle in Japan, the park boasts over 10,000 cherry trees of 250 different varieties, ensuring a prolonged blooming season from late April to late May.

A brief summary to Matsumae Park

Local tips

  • Visit during the Sakura Festival (late April to late May) for the best cherry blossom viewing experience and festival activities.
  • Explore the Matsumae Clan Mansion to experience samurai culture and try on traditional armor.
  • Don't miss the 'Matsumae Three Famous Trees,' Kozenji's blood vein cherry tree, Ryuunin's Ezo haze cherry tree, and Tenjinzaka Gate's married couple cherry tree.
  • Take a walk up to the viewpoint at the north end of Matsumae Park for great views over Matsumae and the Tsugaru Strait.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Hakodate Station, take a bus bound for Matsumae. The bus ride takes approximately 2 hours and costs around ¥1,000. Get off at the 'Matsujo Bus Stop,' which is a 7-minute walk to Matsumae Park.

  • Driving

    From Hakodate, follow signs for Matsumae. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Parking is available near Matsumae Park for around ¥500. During the Sakura Festival, parking may be charged.

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Discover more about Matsumae Park

Matsumae Park is a sprawling area encompassing Matsumae Castle and the Matsumae Clan Mansion, offering visitors a rich blend of history and natural beauty. The park's grounds were once part of the Matsumae Castle, and north of the former castle, there are over 10,000 cherry blossoms planted in rows across the area. With 250 varieties of cherry trees, the park enjoys a unique and extended cherry blossom season, typically lasting from late April to late May. The park is home to Matsumae Castle, the only traditional Edo-period castle in Hokkaido. The castle's three-story tower has been restored and serves as a museum showcasing artifacts of the Matsumae clan. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, visit historic temples like Hogenji Temple and Aunji Temple, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area and the Tsugaru Strait. Beyond cherry blossoms, Matsumae Park features other floral attractions throughout the year, including camellias, dandelions, azaleas, wisterias, and hydrangeas. The park also offers recreational facilities, wheelchair access, and parking. During the cherry blossom season, the Matsumae Sakura Festival takes place, featuring food stands, festival stalls, and evening illuminations.

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