At the northern tip of Japan’s main island lies Aomori Prefecture, a region known for its long, harsh winters. But when spring arrives—ushered in with soft light and gentle breezes—the very air seems to grow tender. Nothing captures this transformation more beautifully than the cherry blossoms of Hirosaki Castle. From late April to early May, approximately 2,600 cherry trees reach their peak bloom, covering the historic castle grounds in a sea of pink, earning it a reputation as one of the finest cherry blossom sites in Tohoku.
While many historic castles in Japan are accompanied by cherry blossoms, Hirosaki’s scenery is especially unique. Here, the deep-rooted weight of history and the delicate grace of nature are exquisitely harmonized, creating a vision of timeless beauty.
This 3-day, 2-night itinerary invites travelers to fully savor the gentle pace of spring in Hirosaki. Starting from Aomori Station or Shin-Aomori Station, the journey to the city of Hirosaki takes about an hour via local train or bus. Upon arrival, while it’s tempting to jump straight into sightseeing, it’s best to leave your luggage at the inn and explore the town light and free.
Hirosaki’s cityscape, a well-preserved former castle town, unfolds in a grid-like pattern, making it perfect for walking. When you step into Hirosaki Park, the castle’s keep emerges amid the sea of blossoms. It is the only surviving original castle keep in the Tohoku region, and its solid stone walls and moats, mirrored by the water and petals, create a deeply poetic scene.
One of the park’s most beloved sights is the “hana-ikada” or “flower raft”—a phenomenon where fallen petals float and gather on the moat’s surface, painting the water in soft pink hues. While there are many scenic spots within the park, we recommend finding a quiet path on the park’s outskirts or sitting on a shaded bench to take in the view at your own pace. As evening falls, the castle and its blossoms are gently illuminated. On a windless night, their reflection in the glassy water turns the scene into something otherworldly. This calm, reflective beauty can only be experienced by staying overnight—where both daytime and night-time bring a different kind of magic under the cherry trees.
On your second day, immerse yourself in Hirosaki’s retro café culture. Scattered across the city are nostalgic cafés that preserve the charm of Japan’s Showa era. These refined yet comforting spaces are filled with warm wooden interiors, jazz or classical music, and vintage furniture that speak of a time gone by. In long-established cafés—some over several decades old—everything from the menu to the décor tells a quiet story of the past. Here, a carefully brewed drip coffee, a classic purin à la mode, or a hearty plate of Napolitan spaghetti welcomes the traveler with a taste of timeless hospitality.
As you explore the city on your second day, why not visit one or two retro cafés in both the morning and afternoon? Along the way, it’s delightful to stop by local wagashi (Japanese sweets) shops or charming general stores. Hirosaki also thrives as a “craft city,” with traditional arts such as kogin embroidery and delicate glasswork still very much alive. As you stroll through its streets, you might suddenly stumble upon a scene that feels like it was lifted straight out of a Showa-era film—small, fleeting moments that make the journey all the more special.
In the late afternoon, we recommend taking a peaceful walk to the temple district or one of the scenic hills on the outskirts of town. As the sun begins to set, you’ll find yourself wrapped in the quiet calm of the countryside, far from the bustle of tourist spots. The spring breeze and the golden light of dusk lend a deep sense of fulfillment to your travels. For dinner, indulge in a meal made with local ingredients at one of Hirosaki’s cozy restaurants, and enjoy the rich flavors of the Tsugaru region.
On the third day, begin early with one last visit to Hirosaki Park. In the gentle morning light, the cherry blossoms take on a serene elegance, offering a different kind of beauty than the day before. With fewer people around, the stillness allows for a deeper connection to the landscape—a moment of quiet reflection.
Before heading home, enjoy a relaxing breakfast at a morning café and then stop by the station area or souvenir shops to pick up sweets and baked goods made with Hirosaki’s renowned apples. The combination of breathtaking cherry blossoms and nostalgic café culture makes a spring trip to Hirosaki not just a journey through landscapes, but a journey through time—an experience that enriches both the senses and the soul.