Takato Castle Park

Takato Castle Park (高遠城址公園) is a historic park located in Ina City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan. The park is renowned for its beautiful cherry blossom trees, particularly the Takato Kohiganzakura variety, which bloom in early April, attracting numerous visitors from across Japan and around the world. The park covers an area of approximately 54,000 square meters and encompasses the ruins of Takato Castle, built in the 16th century.

Takato Castle has a rich history, as it was once ruled by Nishina Morinobu, the fifth son of the famous warlord Takeda Shingen. The castle fell to Oda Nobutada, son of Oda Nobunaga, in 1582.

In addition to the cherry blossoms, the park boasts a diverse collection of plants and trees, such as azaleas, hydrangeas, and Japanese maples, offering stunning views throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the various walking trails within the park, taking in the picturesque scenery of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

Takato Castle Park is home to several attractions, including the Sakura no Baba, a former horse riding ground now adorned with cherry trees, and the Takato-kaku, a building designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan. The park also houses the Shinjō Shrine, dedicated to the guardian deity of the Naito family, the former lords of the Takato Domain.

During the cherry blossom season, the park is illuminated at night, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere. The park also hosts a fall foliage festival, showcasing the vibrant colors of autumn leaves.

Getting there

By Train and Bus

From Tokyo:

1. Take the JR Azusa limited express from Shinjuku Station to Okaya Station (about 2.5 hours)
2. Transfer to a local train on the JR Iida Line to Inashi Station (about 30 minutes)
3. Take a JR bus from Inashi Station to Takato Bus Station (20 minutes, 530 yen)
4. Walk 15 minutes from Takato Bus Station to the park

• Total journey time: About 3.5 hours
• Cost: Approximately 6,620 yen one way from Shinjuku

During Cherry Blossom Season (Late March to Mid-April)

From Tokyo:

1. Take the JR Azusa limited express from Shinjuku Station to Chino Station (2 hours, 5,650 yen)
2. Take the special JR bus from Chino Station to Takato Bus Station (50 minutes, 1,420 yen)
3. Walk 15 minutes to the park

By Car

• Parking available near the park
• Roads can be very congested during cherry blossom season
• Multiple parking areas within 5-15 minutes walk from the park

Details

Hours	Open 24 hours
Admission	Free
Phone	+81 265-94-2556
Address	810-1 Takatomachi Nishitakato, Ina, Nagano 396-0211
Resources	https://www.inacity.jp/shisetsu/koenshisetsu/takatojoshikoen.html