Hirosaki Castle

Hirosaki Castle (Hirosaki-jo) was built by Lord Tsugaru, who governed this region at the beginning of the 17th century. The castle tower was originally five stories, but it was destroyed by fire after being struck by lightning in 1627. Since five-storied castle towers were prohibited by the Edo Shogunate, which governed Japan at the time, it was rebuilt with only three stories. Besides the castle tower, the turret on the southeast corner and the east gate of the outermost castle wall are designated Important Cultural Properties. Moreover the entire area of the castle ruin, including the stone walls and moat, is designated a Historic Site. Many cherry trees are planted around the castle, drawing numerous visitors during the cherry blossom season from the end of April until the beginning of May each year, a time when Hirosaki Castle is said to be at its most beautiful.