Admission	Free
Opening Hours	Open 24 hours
Closed	-
Contact	0139-42-2449
Notes	Photography spot
Location / Getting There	6 hour drive from Sapporo or 2 hour bus ride from Hakadote. Matsujo, Matsumae-cho, Matsumae-gun, Hokkaido, Japan 049-1511

 

In Matsumae Park, you can really get a taste of the history of Japan. Not only can you experience Matsumae Castle, but across from the castle grounds lies the Matsumae temple district. Ryūun-in is a temple here, with five of its buildings recognized as Important Cultural Properties. Its a peaceful and quiet place that offers real Japanese beauty and serenity. Many of the temples of various Buddhist sects here, predate the construction of Matsumae Castle giving this area real cultural significance, being some of the oldest Japanese structures in Hokkaido.

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Walking among the stone pathways and moss covered gardens is a real treat. Another feature of this area is the graveyard of the local Matsumae Lords. The trees surrounding the headstones and tombs make for a fantastic setting, with which to wander and take the quiet beauty of the graveyard. There is also a fantastic 200 year old Kechimyaku Sakura (bloodline cherry). The temples are especially beautiful during late April and early May, as the cherry blossoms (with which Matsumae is famous) are in full bloom. Make sure to bring your camera as you stroll through the historic buildings and paths.