Sakura Castle Park is located in Sakura City, Chiba Prefecture, on the site of Sakura Castle, which served as the domain's administrative center during the Edo period. The expansive grounds retain remnants of the honmaru (main enclosure), ninomaru (second enclosure), and sannomaru (third enclosure), offering a glimpse into the bustling castle town of the past.
Sakura Castle was constructed under the orders of Tokugawa Ieyasu by Doi Toshikatsu. Subsequently, hereditary feudal lords were appointed to govern this strategically important location, safeguarding Edo (present-day Tokyo). The castle once boasted structures including a tenshu (main keep), dohyou (bronze turret), and sumi-yagura (corner turrets), with the tenshu in the honmaru being particularly renowned. Though crucial for defense, the tenshu was unfortunately dismantled in the Meiji era.
Today, the park features the Sakura Castle Park Center, a statue of Horita Masayoshi, and a statue of Townsend Harris. The Sakura Castle Park Center showcases exhibits on Sakura Castle's history and culture, providing insights into the lives of the castle town's inhabitants and the history of the Sakura Domain. The statue of Horita Masayoshi stands on the west side of the castle grounds, while the statue of Townsend Harris is located on the east side.
Sakura Castle Park is also famous for its cherry blossoms. In spring, approximately 1,000 cherry trees burst into bloom, attracting numerous visitors. Various events are held during cherry blossom season, enhancing the enjoyment of hanami (cherry blossom viewing).
Sakura Castle Park is a leading tourist attraction in Chiba Prefecture, where history and nature intertwine. It's a destination well worth a visit.
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