Imabari Castle is one of Japan's few flatland-sea castles, its stone walls surrounded by a saltwater moat connected to the sea. In spring, the castle grounds and surrounding park are adorned with cherry blossoms that reflect beautifully in the moat waters. An annual cherry blossom festival brings food stalls, local craft vendors, and cultural performances to the grounds. The castle's unique coastal architecture and the blossom-moat combination make for memorable photographs.
- Type
- Festival
- Category
- Cherry Blossom
- Season
- Spring
- Month
- Late March to Early April
- Region
- Shikoku
- Prefecture
- Ehime
- City
- Imabari
Highlights
- ◆Rare saltwater moat castle with cherry reflections
- ◆Festival stalls with Ehime local food and crafts
- ◆Coastal castle backdrop unique in Japan
- ◆Gateway to Shimanami Kaido cycling route
- ◆Cultural performances during peak bloom