Castles are a symbol of the samurai, and the cherry blossom is said to be a symbol of samurai life: short, sweet, and ready to fall gracefully. Here are a few ideal places to see both castles, and cherry blossom at their best.
The western moats of Nagoya Castle provide some of the better cherry blossom viewing, with the blossom overhanging the stone walls and reflecting in the still waters of the moat. Along Nagoya Castle’s outer moat, you’ll also find many large cherry trees and some good areas to stop for a picnic too.
Situated on a tree-covered hill, and with a great many of those trees boasting beautiful cherry blossoms, National Treasure Inuyama Castle is a stunning site in spring. The view from the top of the keep looking down on the hillside is simply stunning.
One of Aichi’s premier cherry blossom viewing spots is on the grounds of Okazaki Castle. Over a thousand cherry trees bloom simultaneously, making it seem as though the castle keep is floating on a cloud of light pink blossoms. The blossoms are also lit up at night during the annual cherry blossom festival.
Close to the Gojo River, more hugely popular cherry blossom viewing spots are Kiyosu Castle and the adjoining Kiyosu Castle Park. The black tower of Kiyosu Castle and the light pink of the blossoms make for a stunning contrast. The view from atop the castle is of course incredible!
Built on a hilltop and surrounded by over 1,200 cherry trees, Komaki Castle is one of the better yet little recognized cherry blossom viewing spots. Cherry trees go right to the very top, and the whole mountain becomes ablaze in pink. The base of the mountain is also covered in cherry trees, so there is no need to climb far to enjoy it all. Mt. Komaki’s natural greenery and the pink petals make a wonderful scene.
