Matsumoto Castle, a National Treasure, becomes one of Japan's most iconic hanami backdrops when hundreds of cherry trees burst into bloom around its moat each spring. Evening illuminations bathe the black-walled keep and pink blossoms in golden light, creating a scene of extraordinary beauty. Food stalls, traditional music performances, and guided castle tours enrich the festival atmosphere throughout the viewing period.
- Type
- Festival
- Category
- Cherry Blossom
- Season
- Spring
- Month
- Late March to Early April
- Region
- Chubu
- Prefecture
- Nagano
- City
- Matsumoto
Highlights
- ◆Moat reflections of the castle and cherry blossoms
- ◆Nightly illumination of the National Treasure keep
- ◆Traditional music and taiko drum performances
- ◆Street food stalls lining the castle grounds
- ◆Backdrop of the Northern Japan Alps