Utsunomiya Castle Ruins Park

This park was created by restoring and developing one-third of the west half of the Honmaru (main bailey) of Utsunomiya Castle, which was lost over its long history. The moat, earthen ramparts, and two yagura turrets have been recreated, so you can get a subtle feel for what the castle once was like. In principle, the second floor of the yagura is opened to the public on the third Sunday of every month, so heading up for a view over the townscape can help you better capture the castle atmosphere. The park also has facilities such as Seimeikan, which exhibits the castle’s history and related materials, making it worth visiting for castle fans.

As spring approaches, the cherry trees planted throughout the park begin to bloom. Kawazu-zakura, weeping cherry, Somei Yoshino, and Oyamazakura come into season one after another. During the Utsunomiya Castle Sakura Festival held to match the blooms, food trucks line up in the park plaza and the area fills with visitors. There’s also a free Japanese outfit experience where kids can borrow ninja or town-girl costumes—perfect for snapping a memorable photo.

In October, the Utsunomiya Castle Ruins Festival is also held, where people in period costumes parade along a route from the city to the park, recreating an Edo-period shrine-visit procession.

Lighting is offered every Friday through Sunday until 9:00pm. If you visit during cherry blossom season, you’ll be able to see a magical nighttime scene.