[2025 Takatori Attraction] Travel Guide for Takatori-jō Castle Ruins (Updated May)

#cherryblossom25 Takato Castle Park in Nagano, Japan, is one of the country’s most stunning cherry blossom spots, especially famous for its unique kohigan-zakura trees 🌸. Every April, the park transforms into a dreamy pink landscape, with over 1,500 cherry trees in bloom. Adding to the charm are beautiful flower sculptures — vibrant statues crafted from fresh flowers 🌺🎎, giving visitors picture-perfect spots and a festive hanami atmosphere.

#cherryblossom25 Review (Traveler using #cherryblossom25): Takato Castle Ruins Park is honestly one of the most saturated cherry blossom experiences I've ever had. The variety of sakura here, called Takato Kohigan-zakura, has a slightly deeper pink hue compared to the usual pale blossoms — making the whole park look like a painting in vivid brushstrokes. Walking through the park felt like entering a cotton candy world, especially at sunrise when the mist hugged the hills. Even though it’s a famous spot, the vibe stayed calm early in the morning. The remnants of the old castle gave it this epic, faded grandeur. My #cherryblossom25 post from here was a shot from the wooden bridge crossing over a river of pink — it looked almost too perfect to be real. Truly one of Japan’s ultimate sakura destinations.

#cherryblossom25 As the sun began to dip below the horizon and the evening sky darkened, I decided to step off the bus two stops early. The small village streets welcomed me as I walked through the tranquil town, the sound of the gentle breeze and distant birdsong filling the air. I took a moment to swing on a swing by the roadside, letting my worries fall away with the wind. 🌬️ With every step, the beauty of the cherry blossoms unfolded before me — delicate petals hanging from branches, some swirling in the air like confetti, others gently falling onto the ground. The entire path to Takato Castle Ruins Park was lined with trees in full bloom, each one more stunning than the last. 🌸 When I finally arrived at the park, the cherry blossoms were in full glory. The sight felt almost magical, as if the park itself was frozen in a timeless moment of beauty. The park, with its historical ruins, added a sense of nostalgia and peace, perfectly complemented by the soft petals floating around me. #naturalwonders

#cherryblossom25 About Takato Castle Takato Castle, with a rich historical backdrop, traces its origins to the Sengoku period during the time of Takeda Shingen and his conquest of Shinano. As a critical strategic point, Takato Castle was entrusted to trusted commanders like Akiyama Nobutomo, Suwa Katsuyoshi, and Nishina Morinobu. One of the most notable battles in Takato’s history is the Battle of Takato Castle. During the Kōshū Campaign, the Takeda forces, overwhelmed by the advancing Oda army, largely retreated. However, the castle lord Nishina Morinobu (one of Shingen’s five sons) led a valiant defense with just a handful of soldiers against Oda Nobutada’s troops, ultimately resulting in a tragic yet heroic end to Takeda’s final battle. Today, Nishina Morinobu is enshrined as the "New Castle God" at Fujiwara Shrine located on the castle grounds. After the Edo period, the castle site saw changes under several feudal families, including the Kyōgoku, Hōsaka, and Torii families. With the Meiji Restoration, the castle was abandoned, and most of the structures were sold off. However, the cherry blossoms now filling the ruins owe their existence to the decision of former Takato clan retainers who transplanted sakura trees here. Today, 150 years later, these trees bloom every spring, turning the area into a famous cherry blossom destination, attracting countless visitors. Travel Tips: By bus: From Ina Station, take a bus to Takato Station (around 590 yen). Please note that the buses run infrequently, so make sure to confirm the timetable in advance. Whether you're a history buff or a cherry blossom enthusiast, Takato Castle Ruins offers both a glimpse into Japan’s past and a breathtaking springtime spectacle. 🌸 #travel

#cherryblossom25 Takato Castle Ruins Park in Nagano is celebrated as one of Japan’s top three cherry blossom spots, famous for its rare and vibrant Kohigan-zakura trees. These blossoms are smaller and deeper pink than typical sakura, creating a dreamy cloud of color over the entire park. The ruins of the old castle add historical charm, while elevated viewpoints offer panoramic views of sakura canopies stretching to the mountains. The annual festival features lanterns, local food, and live performances. If you’re looking for a truly immersive and colorful hanami experience, Takato Castle is a breathtaking sakura haven.

#Sakura2024 The ruins of Takatori Castle, towering over a mountain at an altitude of over 500m, were in a great location with a great view. It was a magnificent and quiet space where you could feel the passage of a thousand years of time. There were many large trees that were said to be over 700 years old. The magnificent castle walls remain, and walking along them makes it clear that the area was quite large. It was a place worth seeing, but I think it would be dangerous to wear sandals. I recommend going there dressed like you would for mountain climbing. #NaraPrefecture #CastleTour

#cherryblossom2024 🌼💮🤗 During our amazing trip, I went on an exciting adventure to the lively city of Japan. Spring had changed the area into a paradise and walking through Takato Castle Ruins Park made us feel refreshed. The beautiful scenery of this perfect retreat left us mesmerized, creating memories that would never be forgotten. Nestled within the enchanting Ina city lies the resplendent Takato Castle Ruins Park, a haven adorned with approximately 1,500 majestic trees. Amongst this verdant tapestry, a remarkable variety of blossoms graces the landscape, their petals painted in a vibrant hue of luminous pink. As you wander through this ethereal sanctuary, you shall also discover an additional 500 cherry trees, elegantly adorning the splendid garden of the Edo-era castle known as Komoro Kaikoen. Immerse yourself in the sheer magnificence of nature's artistry as you traverse these regal grounds. This luxurious and enchanting sanctuary has left a lasting impression deep within my mind. The joy of returning and savoring each moment in this unique haven is truly unmatched. 🤗💮🌼🩷#mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip

#sakura #springblossoms #nagano #japan

Tourist Attractions Takatori Castle, one of the three great mountain castles in Japan, is a mountain castle built on the top of Mt. Takatori, which is 583.9 meters above sea level. Currently, it is covered in greenery and you can only see the stone walls, but when you think about the fact that a castle was built in such a place with such a difference in elevation, you can once again feel the amazing abilities of the people of the past. You will be walking a lot! Drinks are a must! By the way, please note that the 100 Famous Castles stamp is not at Takatori Castle, but at the tourist information center in Takatori Town. Access ☆About 2 hours walk from Tsubosakayama Station on the Kintetsu Yoshino Line ☆About 1 hour walk from Tsubosakadera on the Nara Kotsu Bus ☆There is a small parking space at the end of the Takatori Castle Road, but the width of the road is narrow, so it is recommended to walk from Tsubosakadera. Information as of May 2022. #Breathtaking views #Historical sites #Castle tours #Castle #Japan's 100 famous castles #Mountain climbing #Photogenic spots #gw2022jp