Nihonmatsu: Castle Town and Cherry Blossom Route

Nihonmatsu invites you to discover history and city life at your own pace. During the Edo period (1603–1868), the town developed into the castle town of the Nihonmatsu clan. Historic shrines and traditional Japanese confectioneries line the way on a stroll through town. This brings views of the past together with impressions of the present-day cityscape. If you enjoy walking, you can visit shrines and confectioneries as different stops along a stroll, rather than limiting your visit to a single historic site.

Castle History at Kasumigajo Castle Park

The former site of Nihonmatsu Castle is now home to Kasumigajo Castle Park. Its preserved and reconstructed walls and buildings, along with its gardens, illustrate the castle’s history. Different elements can be seen side by side: some walls and buildings have been preserved, while others have been reconstructed, and the gardens also contribute to the character of the former castle grounds. If you are interested in the history of the castle town, this is a tangible connection to its past. The park and its grounds provide a distinct focus alongside the town’s shrines and traditional confectioneries.

You can give these two experiences different emphasis when planning your trip: a walk through town takes you past historic shrines and confectioneries, while Kasumigajo Castle Park brings the castle’s history to life through its walls, buildings and gardens. This gives you a choice between cultural discoveries on foot and exploring the former castle grounds as different interests for a stay in Nihonmatsu.

Cycling to See the Cherry Blossoms

A cycling route is recommended for cherry blossom season. It starts at Nihonmatsu Station, passes several cherry trees at temples, includes Kasumigajo Park, and then returns to the station. The riding time alone is about 1 hour and 30 minutes; breaks and sightseeing are not included. This time estimate therefore covers cycling only. If you would like to stop along the way to enjoy the cherry trees or park at your leisure, allow extra time. For families who like to plan outings with plenty of breaks, the distinction between riding time and the total time needed for the day is a useful guide.

The roads in the town centre are also worth considering when deciding whether to cycle: many are steep. Take this into account when planning, whether you intend to go on a cycling tour or mainly get around town. The cherry blossom route described here and the note about the roads in the centre are two separate considerations for planning; the route runs from the station via the locations mentioned to the park and back.

When choosing a destination, consider whether you would rather focus on a town walk with shrines and confectioneries, the castle history at the park, or the recommended cycling route. Nihonmatsu brings these options together with its history as a castle town. A holiday rental in Nihonmatsu is worth considering if you want these cultural experiences and the cycling route to shape your stay.

More destinations: Minamiaizu District, Kōriyama, Iwaki, Kawamata, Tamura District, Aizumisato, Yugawa, Nishishirakawa District.

For the wider travel overview: Fukushima Prefecture.