Matsumae Town

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Matsumae Town, in the southernmost tip of Hokkaido, flourished as a castle town of the Matsumae Domain during the Edo period. Matsumae Castle is the only traditional Japanese-style castle remaining in Hokkaido, and it played a vital role in guarding the northern frontier. Matsumae Park, surrounding the castle, is one of Japan's most celebrated cherry blossom destinations, where some 10,000 cherry trees of 250 different varieties bloom in late April through early May — earning it fame for the greatest variety of cherry blossom species in Japan. Matsumae-zuke, a traditional Hokkaido pickle of kelp, dried squid, and herring roe in soy sauce and sake, was invented in this very town. Fresh seafood from the Tsugaru Strait and the town's deep historical ambiance combine for a uniquely atmospheric southern Hokkaido experience.