Hirosaki Castle (Hirosaki-jo)

Hirosaki Castle (Hirosaki-jo) Review

The castle is situated atop a high stone base, guarded by deep moats, over which a red wooden bridge crosses in a picturesque curve. The original castle, completed in 1611, was set ablaze 16 years later by a lightning bolt. The present castle, of a smaller scale, dates back to 1810. When the more than 5,000 somei-yoshino cherry trees blossom, or when the maples turn, the setting is even more gorgeous. A snow-lantern festival with illuminated ice sculptures is held in early February. The castle is a 30-minute walk from the station on the northwest side of town, across the river. Take the ¥100 bus from the No. 2 stop and get off at the Shiyaku-sho-mae, or City Hall stop.