Hirosaki (Aomori)

The city of Hirosaki is located west of Aomori Prefecture, and is the third biggest city of the Prefecture. This region of Japan is known for apple growing which represents 20% of the national production. In Hirosaki in August takes place the Hirosaki Nebuta festival listed in the national intangible cultural heritage. It is one of the three great summer festivals of Tohoku. Hirosaki is also famous for the cherry blossom in spring, its park and its castle. The festival attracts more than 2,8 millions of visitors each year.

 

The castle is known to be one of the best sites for the Japanese hanami (cherry blossom). The park that surrounded the castle counts about 2500 sakura (cherry trees) of 50 different species. It is also possible to admire it from the river while sailing on a boat. (From avril 20th)

 

In August is the Hirosaki nebuta matsuri festival listed in the national intangible cultural heritage, and one of the three great summer festivals of Tohoku. 


 

Hirosaki Festival Yuki dôrô matsuri 

Springtime is famous in Horaski for the cherry blossom, but also winter for the Yuki Doro festival which attracts many visitors. 

Covered with snow, the Hirosaki castle appears to float into the dark night where more than 200 snow lanterns and snow sculptures are enlightened creating a majestic and poetic winter scene. Big sculptures, 300 small igloo and many other snow creations will amaze you during the festival. It is also known as one of the 5 Michinoku’s snow festivals.(5 great snow festivals of Tohoku).