Kasuga River Cherry Walk
Historic park with castle ruins, stunning cherry blossoms in spring, and panoramic views of Kofu city and Mt. Fuji.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak cherry blossom season
Kasuga River Cherry Walk
Best Time
Peak cherry blossom season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic park with castle ruins, stunning cherry blossoms in spring, and panoramic views of Kofu city and Mt. Fuji.
"A peaceful escape with history, nature, and breathtaking views, especially during cherry blossom season."
🌸 Best Bloom Timing
Aim for late March to early April for peak cherry blossoms. Check forecasts!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Lots of walking and some steep stairs. Wear comfy shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cherry Blossom Spectacle
Throughout the park
Thousands of cherry trees burst into bloom, creating a breathtaking pink and white canopy. A must-see in spring!
Maizuru Castle Ruins
Central park area
Explore the remnants of a 1583 castle, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich history.
Panoramic City Views
Highest point of the park
Ascend to the top for sweeping views of Kofu city and, on clear days, the majestic Mount Fuji.
Kuroganemon Gate
Southern side of Honmaru
Admire the reconstructed Kuroganemon, a significant historical structure within the castle ruins.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Cherry Blossoms
Accessibility and Park Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌸 Best Bloom Timing
Aim for late March to early April for peak cherry blossoms. Check forecasts!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Lots of walking and some steep stairs. Wear comfy shoes!
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Morning light on the crane statue & sunset behind the Shaonto Tower.
⛰️ Fuji Views on Clear Days
Visit when the weather is clear for a chance to see Mt. Fuji. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🌸 Best Bloom Timing
Aim for late March to early April for peak cherry blossoms. Check forecasts!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Lots of walking and some steep stairs. Wear comfy shoes!
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Morning light on the crane statue & sunset behind the Shaonto Tower.
⛰️ Fuji Views on Clear Days
Visit when the weather is clear for a chance to see Mt. Fuji. +1
🚶♀️ Easy Station Access
Just a short walk from JR Kofu Station's south exit. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kasuga River Cherry Walk for its serene atmosphere, historical significance, and stunning cherry blossoms in spring. The easy access from Kofu Station and panoramic city views, including Mount Fuji on clear days, are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some note the presence of steep stairs, which requires caution for those with mobility issues.
"1 of the most famous castle sites in Japan.
Maizuru Castle Park, which encompasses Kofu Castle, is a peaceful location that is suitable for peace seekers, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs. Amidst the city's activity, this location offers spacious grounds surrounded by lush greenery.
Unobstructed panoramic views of the city can be seen from the highest point of the park.
The reconstructed Kuroganemon is one of the major structures in the ruins of Kofu Castle. The gate used to be a two-storied Yaguramon that was situated on the southern side of the Honmaru.
The park is particularly popular during spring, when the cherry trees bloom on the grounds, and you can see Mount Fuji in the background during clear sky weather.
Just a short stroll away from the south exit of JR Kofu station. Proceed straight and then turn right to reach the entrance. ⛩️"
MoCもし
"Such a good place for walking, serenity seeking and relaxing! It’s also a good place to know some history about Kofu. It has a great view and just a few minutes walk from Kofu station."
Ry Pen
"This park is located just a short walk from the south exit of Kofu Station. It takes about 20 minutes to walk around the entire park. On clear days, you can see Mount Fuji, so I recommend visiting when the weather is nice."
World Hiro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
It's a very convenient walk! From the south exit of JR Kofu Station, proceed straight and then turn right to reach the park entrance. It typically takes about 5-10 minutes. +1
While the park itself is open 24 hours, specific parking information isn't widely detailed. Given its proximity to Kofu Station, public transport is highly recommended.
Yes, the park grounds are open 24 hours. However, any museums or upper floors of gates will be closed during off-hours.
Walking is the best way to experience the park. Wear comfortable shoes as there are some steep stairs and uneven terrain.
Absolutely! Its close proximity to JR Kofu Station makes it incredibly accessible for those relying on trains. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the park grounds is free and open 24 hours. Specific attractions within the park might have separate admission fees.
The park itself is open 24 hours a day. However, any internal museums or specific gate structures may have their own operating hours.
The cherry blossoms are a natural spectacle within the park, and there is no separate admission fee to view them.
The prime time for cherry blossoms is typically from late March to early April, though this can vary slightly each year.
While not always advertised, events like the 'MAIZURU PLAYBACK FES.' have been held, so it's worth checking local listings for any current happenings.
📸 📸 Photography
For photographers, the morning light on the crane statue at the main entrance is excellent. From the watchtower, aim for shots of the Shaonto Tower with the sunrise behind you or sunset behind the tower.
Yes, on clear days, Mount Fuji is visible from the top of the park. Visiting in the morning often provides better visibility. +1
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage within historical structures.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting. Mornings are also great for clear views of Mt. Fuji.
The combination of castle ruins, cherry blossoms (in season), and the distant Mount Fuji provides a unique and picturesque setting. +1
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Depending on your pace, exploring the entire park can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
Absolutely! It's described as a peaceful location perfect for serenity seekers and relaxing strolls.
Yes, the park encompasses the ruins of Kofu Castle, offering a chance to learn about local history.
The park has spacious grounds but includes many steep stairs, so be cautious if you have knee issues.
Key attractions include the cherry blossoms (seasonal), the Maizuru Castle ruins, the Kuroganemon gate, and panoramic city views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Packing snacks and drinks is a good idea, as dedicated dining facilities within the park might be limited. The easy access from Kofu Station also makes it a convenient destination for families traveling with young children. Consider visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, for a more relaxed experience.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Its proximity to JR Kofu Station means you can save on transportation costs by walking directly from the train. Bringing your own food and water will also help keep expenses down. This makes it an ideal spot for a scenic and historically rich experience without breaking the bank.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Key tips include visiting during the golden hours for optimal lighting, utilizing the watchtower for panoramic shots, and capturing the morning light on the entrance crane statue. The park offers both natural beauty and historical depth, making it a rewarding location for capturing memorable images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: Maizuru Castle Park
Beyond the castle structures, the park provides unobstructed panoramic views of the surrounding city from its highest points. This vantage point allows visitors to appreciate the urban landscape and its historical context. The blend of historical ruins and scenic vistas makes it a unique destination for those interested in Japan's feudal past and its modern present.
The Ephemeral Beauty of Cherry Blossoms
Experiencing the cherry blossoms here is often highlighted as a top spring outing. The delicate petals falling like snow create a magical atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for peace seekers and nature enthusiasts. While the peak bloom is short-lived, it offers a profound connection to nature's transient beauty, a quintessential Japanese experience.
Photography Tips for Stunning Shots
From the watchtower, aim your lens towards the Shaonto Tower. For dramatic shots, plan to be there for sunrise, with the sun rising behind you and casting a warm glow on the scene. Alternatively, sunset can provide a beautiful backdrop with the tower silhouetted against the evening sky. On clear days, don't forget to frame shots that include the majestic Mount Fuji in the distance, adding an iconic element to your photographs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit