Ashino Park

This is a civic park known as the place where Osamu Dazai, a writer from Aomori Prefecture, used to play. In the vast park of about 800,000 m2 spreading around Lake Ashino, 1,500 cherry trees stand in a row, and the park is dyed in spring colors every spring. The park is one of the largest in the Tsugaru Peninsula and has been selected as one of the "100 Best Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Japan. The "Kanagi Cherry Blossom Festival" is usually held from April 29 to May 7, attracting many people.

The best part is the view of the Tsugaru Railway "Running Melos-go" running under the gorgeous cherry blossom tunnels. The quaint little station house and retro train car of Ashino Koen Station, located within the park, and the glossy cherry blossoms in full bloom are a wonderful sight not to be missed. The park is dotted with such sights as "Dazai Bridge," where Osamu Dazai is said to have walked while contemplating his works, "Osamu Dazai Literature Monument," and "Monument to the Birthplace of Tsugaru Shamisen," making a stroll around the park while viewing the cherry blossoms a delightful experience.

There is also a "children's zoo" and an "auto-camping area," making it a popular recreational spot for local residents not only during the cherry blossom season, but also throughout the year.