Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival - Aomori's Spectacular Cherry Blossom Destination

The Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival held annually in Hirosaki Park in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, is a historic cherry blossom celebration that began in 1918. Hirosaki Park is home to more than 50 varieties and approximately 2,600 cherry trees, with origins tracing back to 1715 when 25 cherry trees were brought from Kyoto's Arashiyama during the Tsugaru domain period. Through the unique application of apple pruning techniques to cherry trees, the park achieves remarkable, fluffy blossoms that create an overwhelming display of cherry blossom beauty unlike anywhere else. Visitors can enjoy diverse expressions throughout the day and night, including the stunning contrast between Hirosaki Castle's main keep and the cherry blossoms, the cherry blossom tunnel at Nishihori moat, and the carpet of petals called "hanaikada" that fills the moat when the blossoms fall. The nighttime cherry blossom illumination creates an enchanting atmosphere, while boat cruises on the moat and food stalls throughout the park allow visitors to fully experience Japan's traditional hanami culture. The Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival continues to attract tourists from around the world with its uniquely Japanese scenery of castle and cherry blossoms combined, and spectacular cherry blossom views created through meticulous tree management.