HIROSAKI CASTLE

At the end of the 16th century, the region was under the control of the Oura family. In 1661, Nobuhira Tsugaru built the castle that would remain the family's fiefdom until the Meiji era. Oyo Kōen Park stands on the site of the castle, of which only the ramparts, moat and a gate, the Kamenoko-mon, remain. The present keep was built in the early 19th century. The castle is considered one of the most important in Japan. At the end of April, the park welcomes many visitors for the beauty of its cherry blossoms. Major work is in progress.