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Takato Castle Park

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Takato Castle Ruins Park developed on the site of Takato Castle. It is located on a hill in Ina City of Nagano Prefecture, about 60 kilometers south of Matsumoto. It is one of the three best locations to see cherry blossoms in Japan.

There are about 1500 cherry trees of the pinkish Kohigan variety standing across the park's compound. The Kohigan cherry trees are said to have been planted in the park in 1875, when the park was first opened to the public.

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Things to see

Today, there is not much left from the original castle. Standing close to the north gate is Takatokaku which is the biggest building in the park. It is a two-story building of Showa Period architecture that serves as a space for locals to gather and traveler to take a break.

In the center of the park is Ounkyo, a gently curved bridge that is famous as one of the best spot to see cherry blossom. In the west part of the park is the Taikoyagura, a uniquely shaped drum tower which visitors can catch fine views of the town below the hill and the Central Alps in the distance.

Lastly, at the southern end of the park is the Shinshu Takato Art Museum ehcih exhibits a variety of artforms.

Travel Notes

Take a JR Azusa limited express train from Tokyo's Shinjuku Station to Chino Station which is located approximately 25 kilometers north of the Takato Castle Ruins Park.

During the cherry blossom season, a bus runs from Chino Station to Takato Bus Station from where it is a 15 minute walk to the park.

Admission

During cherry blossom season, the park opens at 8:00 to 17:00, 6:00 to 22:00 during peak cherry blossom period and its always open for the rest of the year (No closing days).

The admission fee cost 500 Yen and free during outside season.

Guide Map

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