Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival
Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival
4.5
About
A spring festival at Hirosaki Park, famous for its cherry blossoms and boasting 2,600 cherry trees in about 50 varieties, such as Weeping Cherry and Double-Flowered Cherry. Held every year between April 23rd and May 5th, it delights the eyes of tourists with its cherry tree tunnel and western moat dyed the color of cherry blossoms. The cherry trees illuminated at night seem to float magically and make for a different charm than in the daytime. Don't miss the flowering of such invaluable trees as Japan's oldest Yoshino cherry (planted in 1882) and largest circumference Yoshino cherry (a little over 5m).
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Bundtlust
Katori, Japan994 contributions
Apr 2018 • Solo
I have lived in Japan for three years and have been to many popular places for cherry blossom season, including Kyoto, and visiting Hirosaki has been on my list for the last year. I have visited nine Japanese castles, this is my 10th. This is also the one hundredth anniversary of the Cherry Blossom Festival here, so there are several special events unique to this year. The castle itself is quite small, but the park surrounding it has over 2500 cherry trees of many varieties, some are over 100 years old. I made my reservations on January 1 and was worried the cherry blossoms would actually be late because it was so cold this winter, but ended up blooming nearly a week ahead of schedule and they moved the festival forward by two days. I was also impressed that the event organizers maintain a Facebook Page in English, along with a sightseeing map in English for the benefit of international visitors. The grounds are very well organized; there are plenty of restrooms available, which was one of my concerns with the crowds. There is also a nice gift shop right on the castle grounds selling a variety of local crafts and local Apple products. The highlight of course are the cherry blossoms; come after sunset for an absolutely magical experience! I love that local musicians were playing in the park; last night an older gentleman was giving an outstanding Tsugaru Jamisen performance as I watched the sun set over Mt. Iwaki, absolutely unforgettable experience!
Written 21 April 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Louichan
Tokyo, Japan217 contributions
May 2012 • Family
We spent a day in Hirosaki as part of a trip around Aomori Prefecture, and timed it so we could see the Sakura Matsuri--Cherry Blossom Festival. The sakura in this region blooms quite late, usually during the Golden Week vacation period. (April 29th to Mar 6th this year.) As a result, Hirosaki is a top destination for holiday makers.
I've lived in Japan on and off for 20 years and I've seen my fair share of cherry blossoms. Hirosaki Park, without a doubt, is the best I've ever seen! We were lucky to go on one of the peak days, May 2nd. (It rained the next day, which would have knocked off some of the blooms). The park was wreathed in pink from end to end. The park offers scores of photo ops, but one of the classic views is to include one of the red bridges that dot the park, for a quintessential Japanese scene. The castle is also picturesque, framed by the sakura. (You can buy a ticket to enter the grounds close to the castle, but we didn't feel the need to do so--the views from the main area of the park were more than enough). It is fun to take a rowboat out on the boating pond. Despite the crowds, we didn't have to wait long to get a boat, and we got more wonderful photo ops.
For lunch or snacks, hit the stalls that take over one corner of the park. Typical Japanese snack foods, along with Western style food, are offered, as well as carnival games and souvenirs. I've never seen such a huge variety of stalls at any festival. This was the only place where we really felt the crowds--keep a close eye on kids, as it would be easy to lose them in the bustle.
I went to Hirosaki with my two daughters (14 and 11) and my aunt, visiting from overseas. We loved our time in Aomori prefecture, but all of us voted Hirosaki Park's cherry blossoms the highlight. The kids loved rowing among the blossoms and perusing the festival stalls, while my aunt was enchanted with the picturesque scenes at every turn. Me, I just loved the whole happy atmosphere! Although it was filled with visitors, it didn't feel crowded, since the park is so big. (I live in Tokyo, so I know what crowds are.)
We did Hirosaki as a day trip from Aomori City. It only took 50 mins. by train.
Tip 1: You'll do a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
Tip 2: There are 100 yen buses leaving from Hirosaki station. It took a little time to get there, due to the holiday traffic, but I am glad we didn't attempt to walk to the park. It takes 30 mins on foot from the station. Take the bus and save your legs for all the walking after you get there. If the buses are all full, there seemed to be plenty of taxis around.
Tip 3: The Tourist Office just inside the station have helpful maps and brochures, some in English.
Tip 4: Adjacent to Hirosaki Park is the lovely Fujita Japanese Gardens. Well worth seeing this, too. Stunning mountain views from the gardens.
Tip 5: If you plan it right, you can exit the park at the Nebuta Village, a shopping complex with local goods and souvenirs, and a display about the famous Nebuta summer festival. When we got there it was crowded with tour buses and the kids were tired so we skipped it, but I was told it was a good place to shop for gifts.
I've lived in Japan on and off for 20 years and I've seen my fair share of cherry blossoms. Hirosaki Park, without a doubt, is the best I've ever seen! We were lucky to go on one of the peak days, May 2nd. (It rained the next day, which would have knocked off some of the blooms). The park was wreathed in pink from end to end. The park offers scores of photo ops, but one of the classic views is to include one of the red bridges that dot the park, for a quintessential Japanese scene. The castle is also picturesque, framed by the sakura. (You can buy a ticket to enter the grounds close to the castle, but we didn't feel the need to do so--the views from the main area of the park were more than enough). It is fun to take a rowboat out on the boating pond. Despite the crowds, we didn't have to wait long to get a boat, and we got more wonderful photo ops.
For lunch or snacks, hit the stalls that take over one corner of the park. Typical Japanese snack foods, along with Western style food, are offered, as well as carnival games and souvenirs. I've never seen such a huge variety of stalls at any festival. This was the only place where we really felt the crowds--keep a close eye on kids, as it would be easy to lose them in the bustle.
I went to Hirosaki with my two daughters (14 and 11) and my aunt, visiting from overseas. We loved our time in Aomori prefecture, but all of us voted Hirosaki Park's cherry blossoms the highlight. The kids loved rowing among the blossoms and perusing the festival stalls, while my aunt was enchanted with the picturesque scenes at every turn. Me, I just loved the whole happy atmosphere! Although it was filled with visitors, it didn't feel crowded, since the park is so big. (I live in Tokyo, so I know what crowds are.)
We did Hirosaki as a day trip from Aomori City. It only took 50 mins. by train.
Tip 1: You'll do a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
Tip 2: There are 100 yen buses leaving from Hirosaki station. It took a little time to get there, due to the holiday traffic, but I am glad we didn't attempt to walk to the park. It takes 30 mins on foot from the station. Take the bus and save your legs for all the walking after you get there. If the buses are all full, there seemed to be plenty of taxis around.
Tip 3: The Tourist Office just inside the station have helpful maps and brochures, some in English.
Tip 4: Adjacent to Hirosaki Park is the lovely Fujita Japanese Gardens. Well worth seeing this, too. Stunning mountain views from the gardens.
Tip 5: If you plan it right, you can exit the park at the Nebuta Village, a shopping complex with local goods and souvenirs, and a display about the famous Nebuta summer festival. When we got there it was crowded with tour buses and the kids were tired so we skipped it, but I was told it was a good place to shop for gifts.
Written 10 May 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nejc Draganjec
Skofja Loka, Slovenia187 contributions
Apr 2018 • Couples
My expectations coming to Hirosaki were high. Very high. It is one of 7 sakura hanami spots considered best of the best in Japan and it delivered big time. It even surpassed all my expectations.
When deciding to go there consider that during the festival, there are a lot of people coming there. Public transport is at its full capacity. Also accommodations. So book and organize upfront everything you possibly can.
During the festival, the whole Hirosaki is beautiful (don't overlook some other local attractions, they are well worth your time) but the Hirosaki park is where it is at. And it is breathtaking. Corridors of stunning sakura trees, castle, bridges, ...
In the evening there is a night illumination and a lot of stalls offering sakura-themed food and sweets. It can get very busy but since the park is open 24/7 my recommendation would be to go there before sunrise if you want it just to yourself for some photos.
When deciding to go there consider that during the festival, there are a lot of people coming there. Public transport is at its full capacity. Also accommodations. So book and organize upfront everything you possibly can.
During the festival, the whole Hirosaki is beautiful (don't overlook some other local attractions, they are well worth your time) but the Hirosaki park is where it is at. And it is breathtaking. Corridors of stunning sakura trees, castle, bridges, ...
In the evening there is a night illumination and a lot of stalls offering sakura-themed food and sweets. It can get very busy but since the park is open 24/7 my recommendation would be to go there before sunrise if you want it just to yourself for some photos.
Written 10 February 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1234texas
Seabrook, TX5,101 contributions
Apr 2018 • Friends
This is something we have wanted to see for 40 years (after we were in Washington DC at the cherry blossom peak) because all we had heard was, "...if you really want to see something special, you have to go to Japan!" We thought the blossoms in DC were pretty special, but we were totally wrong! So, if you want to see something special, you have to go to Japan! This is one incredible sight that truly "takes your breath away" when you see it--even from the bus. However, get off the bus and walk through a beautiful painting. This is an experience where nature puts on a show that you will NEVER FORGET.
We were very lucky on this entire trip because we saw the blossoms in Vancouver BC, twice in Aomori (a week apart), and at the north island--all at their peak. There is absolutely no way you can guarantee that you will be in country when the cherries bloom will be in peak bloom unless you are planning to be there for about 40 days. In spite of what you hear, NO ONE can tell you for certain what day the peak will be for the city you are visiting. The "experts" say the range is "early to mid April to early May, but it all depends on the latitude you are at." The good news is that there is always a peak bloom, but the bad news is that the weather (rain and high winds) can destroy it quickly.
We chose this trip to Japan on the basis of the cherry blossoms peak bloom, and we expected to see them at least once looking good. The fact that we were at many different latitudes helped us greatly, but it can work against you. Plan your trip in advance based on the "expected times" and allow for stops in different cities (with possibilities of seeing the blossoms) where you can get a train to Aormori if you hear from the locals that the blooms are at their peak. If they are, check the weather first, then cancel your plans for the arrival city and go catch the train!
We were expecting great things, but we got so much more than we expected. Hirosaki Park is huge--it covers many acres. The landscape design is superb, as well as the maintenance of the garden. There are 2,600 cherry trees--most over 130 years old (the oldest is 500+ years), which we thought was impossible for cherry trees. They are many feet in diameter and they are very tall--so tall that they form a canopy of branches over the paths and are totally covered with flowers (see pictures attached). The stonework, water features & canals are an excellent example at oriental gardening at its best. At the center of the park is the Hirosaki Castle (which is very impressive) and worth the walk to it even if there were no blossoms. The mountain "overlooking" the park is spectacular--see pictures. Finally, and most important, is that EVERY TREE IN THE PARK IS IN BLOOM AT THE SAME TIME!
By the way, this really is a festival with lots of food, drink, plants, and trinkets. It is very well attended (crowded with people everywhere speaking many different languages). There are thousands of busses in the area, and many tour groups. If you don't like a crowd, you are at the wrong venue!
When you are in Japan, you will be surrounded by "Kawaii" which is Japanese for "cuteness." Get ready for it because it is everywhere in the culture. The strangest aspect of this is the tendency of young women (18 to 30+) to dress as children/school girls. There were a number of examples at the festival, but one scene of two girls (pictured) seems to have summed up the situation for us. The pictures have helped us greatly in communicating the concept to our friends in the states--of whom few can believe it or understand it. You have to be in Japan to get a sense for how it fits into the culture!
Without a doubt, this stop was one of the highpoints of our trip--and there were many. Japan is an incredible country with much to offer tourists. It is very different than any other place we have been, but it is unique and wonderful in its' own way--this stop really brings that home to you. Try to work it into your plans because you will not be disappointed--even if you are not a gardner!
We were very lucky on this entire trip because we saw the blossoms in Vancouver BC, twice in Aomori (a week apart), and at the north island--all at their peak. There is absolutely no way you can guarantee that you will be in country when the cherries bloom will be in peak bloom unless you are planning to be there for about 40 days. In spite of what you hear, NO ONE can tell you for certain what day the peak will be for the city you are visiting. The "experts" say the range is "early to mid April to early May, but it all depends on the latitude you are at." The good news is that there is always a peak bloom, but the bad news is that the weather (rain and high winds) can destroy it quickly.
We chose this trip to Japan on the basis of the cherry blossoms peak bloom, and we expected to see them at least once looking good. The fact that we were at many different latitudes helped us greatly, but it can work against you. Plan your trip in advance based on the "expected times" and allow for stops in different cities (with possibilities of seeing the blossoms) where you can get a train to Aormori if you hear from the locals that the blooms are at their peak. If they are, check the weather first, then cancel your plans for the arrival city and go catch the train!
We were expecting great things, but we got so much more than we expected. Hirosaki Park is huge--it covers many acres. The landscape design is superb, as well as the maintenance of the garden. There are 2,600 cherry trees--most over 130 years old (the oldest is 500+ years), which we thought was impossible for cherry trees. They are many feet in diameter and they are very tall--so tall that they form a canopy of branches over the paths and are totally covered with flowers (see pictures attached). The stonework, water features & canals are an excellent example at oriental gardening at its best. At the center of the park is the Hirosaki Castle (which is very impressive) and worth the walk to it even if there were no blossoms. The mountain "overlooking" the park is spectacular--see pictures. Finally, and most important, is that EVERY TREE IN THE PARK IS IN BLOOM AT THE SAME TIME!
By the way, this really is a festival with lots of food, drink, plants, and trinkets. It is very well attended (crowded with people everywhere speaking many different languages). There are thousands of busses in the area, and many tour groups. If you don't like a crowd, you are at the wrong venue!
When you are in Japan, you will be surrounded by "Kawaii" which is Japanese for "cuteness." Get ready for it because it is everywhere in the culture. The strangest aspect of this is the tendency of young women (18 to 30+) to dress as children/school girls. There were a number of examples at the festival, but one scene of two girls (pictured) seems to have summed up the situation for us. The pictures have helped us greatly in communicating the concept to our friends in the states--of whom few can believe it or understand it. You have to be in Japan to get a sense for how it fits into the culture!
Without a doubt, this stop was one of the highpoints of our trip--and there were many. Japan is an incredible country with much to offer tourists. It is very different than any other place we have been, but it is unique and wonderful in its' own way--this stop really brings that home to you. Try to work it into your plans because you will not be disappointed--even if you are not a gardner!
Written 30 August 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
sweetafton
Singapore, Singapore291 contributions
Apr 2019 • Friends
Hirosaki is one of the most popular cherry blossom-viewing sites in Japan. The garden around the castle has over 2600 trees in bloom during cherry blossom season. Being further north on the main island, the cherry blossom season is later by about 2-3 weeks from Tokyo/Yokohama/Kamakura/Ofuna./Hakone.
We were there on April 30th and were rewarded with gorgeous blooms in several colours.
Of course,the place will be crowded, but it will be fun because there are also many food stalls selling traditional snacks. Japanese love their snacks, and sometimes, certain snacks are only unique to the area, and cannot be found anywhere else in Japan.
We were there on April 30th and were rewarded with gorgeous blooms in several colours.
Of course,the place will be crowded, but it will be fun because there are also many food stalls selling traditional snacks. Japanese love their snacks, and sometimes, certain snacks are only unique to the area, and cannot be found anywhere else in Japan.
Written 17 May 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
usacobbler
Dublin527 contributions
Apr 2019 • Friends
I gave been to Washington DC when the cherry blossoms were out but this is simply a whole other level of beauty. I think one of my favourite things about this is how many of the cherry blossom trees were donated by locals in the past. It seems there are very few bad places to be in the park because no matter where I looked it was all so beautiful. I am delighted I was able to get here for this festival. There were some activities and there were quite a few people who brought picnics which is a lovely custom in Japan at this tome if tear. We even saw a group of business people having a very fancy picnic by the castle. Do get there early especially if you are going to be there during the weekend. People come from all over to see this festival and this is considered to be the third best cherry blossom festival in the country as I was told by locals. There is an area with lots of food stalls although you will find them in other spots as well and do try an Aomori apple. The region is renown for them and for good reason.
Written 24 April 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Adi N
Jakarta, Indonesia352 contributions
Apr 2018 • Friends
there is alot of stall which sell snack and food.. the takoyaki is delicious, it made from whole octopus, yummyyyy.. there is performance too and with the beautifull background, its so amazing
Written 23 July 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GEORGE R
Centreville, MD176 contributions
Apr 2018 • Couples
Our ship docked in Aomori and from there we boarded a train to Hirosaki. Then a short shuttle ride to Hirosaki Park and we were in Cherry Blossom Heaven. There were a number of people in Hirosaki going to the Park and the City had arranged for guides at the train station to assist in boarding the correct bus to the Park. It was all very easy even for me and I do not speak or read Japanese.
Once at the Park, we were overwhelmed by the beauty of the many varieties of Cherry Tree blossoms and the ambiance of the Park. There were a number of families that had brought their children to enjoy the Park and just relax among the beauty of the trees. There were food vendors along the pathways so we enjoyed a lunch while there. The City also provided a free map of the Park (in Japanese and English) which made deciding what we wanted to see and how to find it very easy
Since we needed to return to Aomori before the ship sailed, we had to budget our time carefully. There was so much more to see, but we were thrilled that we experienced so much beauty of the Park. Our reliance on the Japanese railroad was not misplaced. It is very, very reliable and always on schedule. The train ride was another way to experience the local way of life and added to our enjoyment of Japan.
Once at the Park, we were overwhelmed by the beauty of the many varieties of Cherry Tree blossoms and the ambiance of the Park. There were a number of families that had brought their children to enjoy the Park and just relax among the beauty of the trees. There were food vendors along the pathways so we enjoyed a lunch while there. The City also provided a free map of the Park (in Japanese and English) which made deciding what we wanted to see and how to find it very easy
Since we needed to return to Aomori before the ship sailed, we had to budget our time carefully. There was so much more to see, but we were thrilled that we experienced so much beauty of the Park. Our reliance on the Japanese railroad was not misplaced. It is very, very reliable and always on schedule. The train ride was another way to experience the local way of life and added to our enjoyment of Japan.
Written 3 June 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rebecca L
35 contributions
Apr 2018 • Couples
Was lucky enough to be here right at the right time for the opening of Hanami. If you like flowers and don’t mind baby pink, white and hot pink (or you love those colors) you’ll love being surrounded by the 2600 cherry tree blossom. It is spectacular
Written 21 April 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tamaletown
Perth, Australia1,670 contributions
Apr 2017 • Couples
We have spent three weeks chasing sakura and these were definitely some of the best. Well worth going into the botanical gardens, away from the teeming hoardes, for some great shots of weeping cherry trees. But the whole area is huge! So much to take in. Allow at least half a day.
Written 30 April 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Would traveling to Hirosaki on April 9th (2023) be to early to see any blossoms? Leaving Japan on April 10th…Thanks so much!!
Written 2 April 2023
Hi planning to visit Hirosaki on 27/4/19 how is the weather and cherry Blossom
Written 25 April 2019
I have been there exactly 1 year ago and it was perfect. But peak flowering can change from year to year so you better check where the flowering front is on a Japanese weather association's web page.
Written 25 April 2019
Hello to everybody!
We should buy tickets for the Hirosaki cherry festival (April - May) or it's free?
Written 3 January 2019
Hi, Janie. What would you like to know about this attraction? Can I ask dates that you travelled here please? I know it is hit and miss but just planning an itinery - thankyou Janie
Written 13 August 2017
I went there at end of April. It was hanami (cherry blossom season). Please check the Hirosaki tourism information website. They will announce the date for cherry blossom party.
Written 19 August 2017
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