Komoro Castle and Kaiko-en Park: Ancient Shinshu Castle and Sakura Loved by Toson Shimazaki

Unique Castle Lower than Castle Town

Komoro Castle is castle ruins in Komoro City, Nagano, a rare castle called "Ana-jiro (pit castle)." While typical castles are built in higher locations than surrounding areas, Komoro Castle is a nationally rare castle built in the Chikuma River valley lower than the castle town. Currently developed as "Kaiko-en Park."

Shimazaki Toson and Komoro

Shimazaki Toson was assigned to Komoro as a teacher at Komoro Gijuku in the Meiji era, writing naturalism literature masterpieces including "Sketches of the Chikuma River" here. The "Shimazaki Toson Memorial Museum" allows learning about Toson's life and works.

Kaiko-en Spring Sakura and Autumn Foliage

Kaiko-en is famous as a cherry blossom and autumn foliage spot. The combination of cherry blossoms blooming on high ground overlooking the Chikuma River and Mt. Asama towering behind is spectacular. Selected in Japan's 100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots.