Matsumae Castle

Matsumae Castle, commissioned by the Matsumae clan under the orders of the shogunate due to its strategic importance in northern defense, is also officially known as Fukuyama Castle. Completed in 1854 during the Ansei era, it represents one of the last constructions of Japanese-style fortresses in the Edo period.

The only surviving structure, the Honmaru Gate, is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The original castle keep, which survived until after the Meiji Restoration, was lost in a fire in 1949. The current keep, reconstructed in 1960 with a reinforced concrete structure, now houses the Matsumae Castle Museum, featuring various exhibits and is a paid facility. The castle grounds also include an observation area, offering stunning views of the Tsugaru Strait and making it a popular scenic spot.

The surrounding Matsumae Park is designated as one of the "Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Japan." The park is home to approximately 10,000 cherry trees of about 250 varieties, including some that originated in Matsumae, allowing visitors to enjoy a continuous display of blossoms from early to late blooming varieties over a month-long period.