Maizuru Castle Park — Cherry Blossoms and Kofu Views

Maizuru Castle Park occupies the grounds of historic Kofu Castle (舞鶴城), built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi's vassal and later ruled by the Tokugawa clan. Though the main keep was dismantled during the Meiji period, the massive stone walls, moats, and several gates remain. The park has been developed as Kofu's premier cherry blossom viewing spot with over 160 Somei Yoshino cherry trees planted along the castle walls and moats.

The reconstructed Inari Yagura (watchtower) on the eastern corner provides panoramic views over Kofu City and the surrounding Kofu Basin. In spring, the stone walls framed by cherry blossoms create classic Japanese castle photography compositions. The park also features the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum annex displaying Takeda-era armor and swords. The annual Kofu Castle Cherry Blossom Festival (late March to early April) features evening illuminations when the castle walls and cherry trees are lit after dark.