Shikano Castle Ruins Park

A park created on the site of Shikano Castle, built Approx. 400 years ago. Although the castle keep and other buildings were lost to fire, remains such as the inner moat, outer moat, and stone walls still survive, preserving the atmosphere of the time.

From the former castle keep site, you can look out over the Sea of Japan. Around the park, townhouses with Kyoto-style latticework are scattered throughout, and the castle town is marked by its many T-junctions and L-shaped roads, reflecting its past as a military stronghold.

In spring, some 500 Yoshino cherry trees come into bloom, drawing not only history fans but also large crowds of cherry blossom viewers. Because they are planted along the moat of the castle ruins, you can enjoy gorgeous scenes of pink blossoms reflected on the water. During the best viewing season, the Cherry Blossom Festival is also held, with nighttime illuminations. Elegant paper lanterns throughout the park are lit, and food stalls are set up, making it a great spot for anyone who wants to enjoy cherry blossom viewing in an even more festive setting.

Be sure to check out the park in autumn as well, when the trees along the approach to Myokenzan on the south side turn brilliant shades of red and gold, and in winter, when the area transforms into a pure white snowscape.