Guida
Matsumae Castle (Matsumae Park) is a vast park located in Matsumae Town, Hokkaido, centered around the only Japanese-style castle in the prefecture. Within its 213,500 square meter grounds, visitors can feel the weight of Japanese history through preserved stone walls and the Honmaru Gate. The park is renowned as one of Japan's top 100 cherry blossom sites, with approximately 10,000 trees across 250 varieties blooming in spring. Highlights include the legendary 'Ketsumyaku Sakura' (Bloodline Cherry) at Kozen-ji Temple, estimated to be over 300 years old, as well as the 'Ezo Kasumi Sakura' at Ryun-in and the 'Meoto Sakura' (Couple Cherry) at Tenjinzaka Gate.
Matsumae Castle was completed in 1854 (the first year of the Ansei era) during the late Edo period to strengthen coastal defenses under orders from the Tokugawa Shogunate. It represents one of the final eras of Japanese-style castle construction. While the castle was designated as a National Treasure in 1941, the main keep was lost to a fire in 1949; the current structure was rebuilt in 1961. The site also holds significant historical weight as a location where the former Shogunate forces, led by Toshizo Hijikata, fought during the Battle of Hakodate during the Meiji Restoration. Today, the Honmaru Gate, historic stone walls, embankments, and moats are carefully preserved as national historical sites.
The park offers a unique fusion of historical architecture and natural beauty. The 'Honmaru Gate,' a designated Important Cultural Property, provides a glimpse into the castle's original grandeur. The 'Sakura Mimon-en' (Cherry Blossom Model Garden) serves as a living encyclopedia, allowing visitors to observe a wide range of varieties from early to late bloomers. Additionally, from the 'Second Park' area, you can enjoy a scenic view overlooking the Tsugaru Strait. The entire grounds are filled with areas that evoke the atmosphere of an ancient castle town.
The best time to visit is April. During this month, the park is blanketed in a sea of blossoms. You can enjoy the changing scenery from early-blooming varieties in early April to late-blooming varieties through late May. Seeing the 300-year-old Ketsumyaku Sakura in full bloom is a truly rare and precious experience. Visiting during daylight hours is highly recommended, as the bright sunlight creates a stunning contrast between the white and pink blossoms and the dark architecture of the castle keep, making it perfect for photography.
At Matsumae Park, you can experience Japanese history and nature simultaneously while strolling through the vast grounds. During the peak season, the 'Sakura Museum' may open, offering deeper insights into the history of cherry blossoms. The park is also equipped with wheelchair-accessible restrooms, making it a comfortable destination for families and travelers with diverse needs. Walking through the changing seasons against the backdrop of historical fortifications is a quintessential Matsumae experience.
The area surrounding the park features the historic 'Matsumae Clan Residences' and the 'Teramachi' (Temple Town) district, which still retains the atmosphere of the Edo period. Visiting these areas together provides a deeper understanding of the former castle town's structure and culture. Nearby, the 'Michi-no-Eki Kitofunematsumae' offers a chance to explore local specialties and regional historical materials.
We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, as the park is very large and requires significant walking. Because temperatures can fluctuate depending on the season, it is wise to bring a light jacket. Please note that cash may be required for parking fees. As this is a public park, please respect the local environment by not littering and being careful not to damage the precious plants and trees.