Tsurugaoka Castle Ruins Park (Tsuruoka Park)

Tsurugaoka Castle Ruins Park, commonly known as Tsuruoka Park, stands on the former grounds of Tsurugaoka Castle in Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture. The castle was originally constructed in 1608 by the Sakai clan, who ruled the region for over 250 years during the Edo period. Though the castle structures were dismantled during the Meiji Restoration, the park preserves the historic moats, stone walls, and earthworks that once defined this important feudal fortress.

The park is nationally recognized as one of Japan's premier cherry blossom viewing sites, designated among the Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan. More than 730 cherry trees, including somei yoshino and weeping cherry varieties, transform the grounds into a spectacular display each spring. The combination of pink blossoms reflected in the surrounding moats creates the park's most iconic scenery. Beyond spring, the park features seasonal attractions including azaleas, irises, and vibrant autumn foliage.

Visitors can explore the expansive grounds that retain the castle's original layout, walking along the preserved moats and viewing the remaining stone fortifications. The park houses several cultural facilities including the Chido Museum, which exhibits samurai artifacts and local history collections. A small shrine dedicated to the Sakai clan lords sits within the park grounds. During cherry blossom season, the park becomes a popular hanami destination with evening illuminations enhancing the nighttime atmosphere.

Tsuruoka Park is located approximately 10 minutes by bus from JR Tsuruoka Station, accessible via local buses bound for Yunohama Onsen. The park can also be reached by a 25-minute walk from the station. Admission to the park grounds is free, though individual facilities within the park may charge separate entrance fees.