Matsumaejō Castle Ruins

This is the only “real” castle of Hokkaido. Although smaller than the castles in Honshu, Matsumae Castle is famous for its sakura blossoms during spring.

Heads up though, expect a huge crowd during the said season. Don’t forget to wear sunblock too.

The only castle remained in Hokkaido. Love it for a calm and relaxed atmosphere regardless of season. Here is no crowds of visitors comparing with other popular tourist locations.

I was lucky enough to have lived in Matsumae for five months this winter (2020) Every day I walked the grounds of the castle and it never got old. Matsumae Castle is considered to be the last of the traditional Japanese castles and with 250 types of 10,000 Sakura, it would be crazy not to visit. I will be returning this spring to see the cherry blossoms.

It's so beautiful when the sakura bloomed!
The castle as the main focus with the flowers as backdrop.. picture perfect😍😍

Extremely amazing during cherry blossom. Wasn't too crowded and the festivals taking place in the park area added to the atmosphere. Good for a long stroll too.

Believed it would be also worth visiting during period other than the sakura season but perhaps more for people who want to enjoy s relaxing stroll.

Took a 2 hour bus ride from bus interchange in front of hokadate station. Usually require pre-booking but walk in is fine as they had spare seats.

Love this place when it's Sakura time.🌸🌸🌸🌸
(3years ago)

I was so blessed that I visited here when the spring season hasn't ended yet. So I got to see sakura blooming all the way here. When I visited, it is so windy and cold but it was nice trip.

to view different Seasons ❄🌸

Beautiful place with many sakura trees!

The cherry blossom trees are still in bloom here and there are many different varieties of cherry blossoms. Beautiful. Visited on 10 May 2019.

I didn't go inside the palace, but the surrounding park is very beautiful indeed. I went there on a Monday evening and had the whole park to myself. Lots of tables and benches -- a fantastic location for a picnic.

One of the 100 famous castles. Despite the long way through bus, it was worth the time. It will be beautiful during sakura seasons.

The best day trip you'll ever have. Especially during Sakura season. It's like a dream. Especially the way to the castle is amazing.

Beautiful architecture, but sadly the ruins only left the turret

Beautiful! I enjoyed every minute. Appreciated the partnership of natural and man made beauty.

Worth the trip to see the Sakura blooms, but its also nice in the winter and without the crowds to boot!

Not easy to get to. But really worth the trouble.

Love there, wanna be there again

Happy day

Not a fantasic place for shoopplng