Matsumae

Hokkaido Matsumae |
The Only Former Castle Town of Hokkaido

As the only former castle town in Hokkaido, Matsumae went through destruction and reconstruction like much of the other castle towns of Japan. After several attacks, the original castle is now a three story structure housing a historical museum displaying historical artifacts of the details of war and the Matsumae clan and castle.

More commonly known today is Matsumae Park, an area which was formerly part of the castle ground, which is now a popular sakura viewing spot. With over ten thousand cherry trees, the Matsumae Park ranks among the top 100 sakura viewing spots in Japan, attracting many during sakura season. The park is especially popular for the long blooming season due to the large variety of trees the park has.

In Matsumae Park is Matsumaehan Yashiki, a small historical theme park. Matsumaehan Yashiki recreates Matsumae Town during the Edo period with its unique buildings and visitors can even rent out a costume that resembles what people of the Edo period wore in town.

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