Festival Cherry Blossom Spring · Mid to Late April

Aizu Tsurugajo Cherry Blossom Festival (Aizu Tsurugajo Hanami Matsuri)

Aizuwakamatsu · Fukushima · Tohoku

The Aizu Tsurugajo Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates the bloom of approximately 1,000 cherry trees surrounding the reconstructed Tsurugajo Castle, famous for its distinctive red-tiled roof — the only one of its kind in Japan. Festival events include traditional Aizu Byakko-tai sword performances, sake tastings from local Aizu breweries, and evening illuminations that bathe the white castle walls and pink blossoms in golden light. The castle's hilltop position provides elevated views over the city, making it a superb photography location. The festival honours the castle's storied history in the Boshin War alongside the natural beauty of the season.

Type
Festival
Category
Cherry Blossom
Season
Spring
Month
Mid to Late April
Region
Tohoku
Prefecture
Fukushima
City
Aizuwakamatsu

Highlights

  • 1,000 cherry trees framing Japan's only red-roofed castle
  • Byakko-tai samurai sword demonstration performances
  • Evening illuminations of castle walls and blossom canopy
  • Aizu local sake and regional food stalls
  • Castle museum open throughout the festival period