After visiting the cherry blossoms in Fort Goryokaku, another good place to see them in Hokkaido is the Matsumae Park. Nestled to the west of Cape Shirakami in Hokkaido, Matsumae unfolds a tale steeped in history and natural splendor. Once a pivotal castle town during the Edo Period, its strategic significance as Japan’s northernmost point was unrivaled. Matsumae Castle, also known as Fukushima Castle, stood as a beacon of strength, guarding the untamed frontier of Hokkaido and flourishing amidst the ebb and flow of economic prosperity.

Perched upon a hillside, Matsumae Castle’s imposing presence symbolized both protection and exploitation of Hokkaido’s abundant resources. As foreign ships loomed on the horizon, the castle’s defenses evolved, fortifying its walls with cannons to safeguard against potential threats.

Despite the ravages of time, Matsumae Castle endures, albeit in reconstructed form, housing within its walls the echoes of a bygone era. Within the castle’s confines lies a treasure trove of history, curated within the halls of a local museum. Here, artifacts of the Matsumae clan intertwine with the cultural heritage of the Ainu people, bridging the gap between past and present.

Beyond the castle’s walls lies Matsumae Park, a sprawling expanse of natural beauty adorned with the delicate hues of cherry blossoms. With over 250 varieties of cherry trees adorning its grounds, the park emerges as a veritable paradise for enthusiasts of Hanami, the revered tradition of cherry blossom viewing. Amidst the blossoms, the Sakura Museum stands as a testament to the enduring allure of these ephemeral blooms, offering insights into their development alongside a captivating display of preserved specimens.