Important Cultural Property (extant tower) / National Historic SiteTōhoku

弘前城

Hirosaki Castle

Lord

Tsugaru Tamenobu / Tsugaru clan

Era

Built in 1611 (Keichō 16)

Designation

Important Cultural Property (extant tower) / National Historic Site

Location

1 Shimoshiroganechō, Hirosaki, Aomori

Access

About 15 min by bus from JR Hirosaki Station to 'Shiyakusho-mae,' then 5 min walk

Overview

Hirosaki Castle was planned by Tsugaru Tamenobu and completed by his son Nobuhira, boasting the only extant castle tower in Tōhoku. Famous nationwide for its cherry blossoms, approximately 2,600 trees adorn the castle grounds in spring. The Tsugaru clan rose to power by breaking away from the Nanbu clan and unifying the Tsugaru region. Their martial prowess extended to a passion for sword collecting. The Hirosaki domain contributed to Tōhoku's sword culture by nurturing local smiths. The current three-story tower, rebuilt in 1810, is a precious surviving tower that draws visitors from across Japan.

Connection to Swords

The Tsugaru clan were avid sword collectors, possessing numerous notable blades passed down through the daimyō lineage. The Hirosaki domain maintained official swordsmiths who developed a distinctive style within Tōhoku's sword culture, differing from the Kunikane lineage of Sendai. Tsugaru Tamenobu was a fierce warrior who survived numerous Sengoku-era battles, and his combat experience deepened his understanding of swords. The Hirosaki City Museum displays Tsugaru-clan swords and armaments, making it an important resource for understanding Tōhoku's sword heritage.