Takato Castle Ruins Park

There are many famous cherry blossom viewing spots throughout Japan, but the "Cherry Blossom Festival" at Takato Castle Site Park, known as the "best cherry blossoms in the world," is definitely a must-visit. From late March to mid-April each year, you can enjoy about 20 different types of cherry blossoms, including approximately 1,500 Takato cherry blossoms. Takato cherry blossoms are a variety that bloom large pale pink flowers, and have the characteristics of a long blooming period and strong resistance to wind, making them relatively easy to enjoy for an extended period of time. The highlight is the approximately 500m cherry blossom-lined path that extends from the park entrance. This cherry blossom-lined path has been selected as one of "Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots" and looks like a pink tunnel. It is recommended to take a leisurely stroll along the cherry blossom-lined path or sit on a bench and enjoy a relaxing time while viewing the flowers. At night, the cherry blossoms in the park are illuminated, creating a fantastic atmosphere. The illumination is held every day during the festival period from 6pm to 9pm. It's also fun to take a walk and enjoy the night cherry blossoms or have a meal at a food stall. Finally, during the festival period, various events can be enjoyed at the same time. There are stage shows such as traditional performing arts and music performances, as well as exhibitions and sales of local specialties and crafts, making it a satisfying experience.

Not only in spring with cherry blossoms, but also in autumn, you can enjoy stunning scenery. About 250 maple trees are planted, and from late October to early November every year, the leaves turn bright red, making you feel like you're strolling on a carpet of maple leaves. During this time, the "Maple Festival" is held, and various events can be enjoyed. For example, at the chrysanthemum exhibition, chrysanthemum lovers from Takato town display the chrysanthemum flowers they have grown. The contrast between the colorful chrysanthemums and the autumn leaves is beautiful and pleasing to the eye. In addition, performances such as Takato Hayashi and Takato Taiko are also showcased, and the sight of people dancing to the powerful sound and rhythm is impressive! And when it comes to autumn, don't forget about soba noodles. Takato is said to be the birthplace of Shinshu soba, and at the new soba festival, you can enjoy soba noodles from local soba shops and farmhouses. New soba has a fragrant and smooth texture, and it's especially delicious to eat after enjoying the autumn leaves! Please enjoy the "Maple Festival" in various ways, not only with autumn leaves but also with flowers, music, and food.

Don't miss the "Takato Castle" located in the center of the park. This building is designated as a registered tangible cultural property of Japan and you can visit exhibitions introducing the history of Takato Castle and Takato Domain, or use it as a rest area. Depending on the season, you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of about 1,500 cherry blossom trees and about 250 maple trees turning red from the second floor. In addition, there is a legend related to a woman named Emishima, who was involved in the Enoshima Incident that occurred during the Edo period, at "Takato Castle". Emishima was a concubine of Matsudaira Sadanobu, a senior councilor of the shogunate, but she conspired with her secret lover, Oguri Jupposan, to overthrow the shogunate. Emishima was captured in this incident and was entrusted to Naito Kiyohira, the lord of Takato Domain. It is said that she was imprisoned in the building that became the predecessor of "Takato Castle". "Takato Castle" is an attractive building where you can experience not only cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, but also history and legends, so please stop by and visit!

Before or after taking a stroll in the park, you can satisfy both your heart and stomach by visiting the beloved local cafe "Aidashu" located nearby. As you open the entrance to the wooden house, you'll be greeted by a spacious and calming atmosphere and a gentle owner. The seating inside the cafe is widely spaced, with counters and tables that can accommodate various group sizes, allowing you to enjoy a meal regardless of the occasion. The menu, including the desserts, is generally large in portion size, yet the seasoning is simple, making it delicious until the very end without getting tired of it. You should definitely try the famous pasta! In addition, there is a gallery that exhibits works by local artists and Beatles records, and it's also possible to dine in the seats located there.

When you want to enjoy the park at night during the cherry blossom or autumn foliage season and stay nearby, the best option is to stay at the "Takato Sakura Hotel". Located about 5 minutes by car from the park, it is a clean and spacious hotel loved by locals for its high-quality hot springs and cuisine. The hot springs boast a high-quality spring quality that makes your skin really smooth, and there is nothing to complain about with the very comfortable water pressure shower and the open-air bath where you can see a sky full of stars at night. For dinner, you can enjoy delicious dishes carefully prepared by the chef using freshly picked seasonal ingredients from their own garden and local produce. Lunch is also recommended, with a very delicious Western-style set menu that changes monthly available at a reasonable price.