Matsumae Park

(Source : pixta)

Matsumae Park is a large area consisting of Matsumae Castle and a theme park Matsumae-Han Yashiki. It has many historic traces and is also a renowned sakura spot. Especially the area surrounding Matsumae Castle has 10,000 sakura trees of 250 species and is selected as one of the "100 top sakura spots." The park also has a rose garden and a peony garden as well as many flowers other than sakura, such as hydrangea and camellia. During sakura season, the Matsumae Sakura Festival is held, during which there are various specialty stands and events.

(Source: pixta)

Matsumae Castle, Selected in 100 Top Castles

It is the only castle in Hokkaido and is the only one in the northernmost area of Japan. It was built in the Edo era and is selected as one of "Japan's top 100 castles." Even though it is a small castle, visitors can go up its tower which offers great views of sakura and the Tsugaru Strait on clear days.

(Source: pixta)

Sakura Encyclopedia

The Sakura Mihon-en (sakura exhibit garden) collects numerous species of sakura and is called a "live sakura encyclopedia" that preserves and exhibits the trees. It was opened in 1965. The approximately 140 species of sakura with varying blooming times bloom one after the other over the span of one month.

(Source: pixta)

Become a Star of a Historic Drama?! Try on Japanese Armor

Matsumae-Han Yashiki is a theme park within the park that recreates the townscape of the Edo era. As part of the program, visitors can try on costumes of a feudal lord or a princess, or the armor of a warrior. Why not try out this experience after you've seen the sakura? (Entrance fee: adults 360 yen, children 240 yen)