Fukushima.Nihonmatsu City

Retaining the original walls of Nihonmatsu Castle—another name for Kasumiga Castle—Kasumigajo Park is a popular place for cherry blossom viewing when its 1,700 trees flower. During this time, the fortress earns its nickname of “the castle in the mist.”

Kasumigajo Park actually contains the remains of two castles, with the later Nihonmatsu Castle built in the 17th century. The castle fell in a brutal battle during the Boshin Civil War to government forces.

In 1872, the castle ruins were demolished, although the walls remained. A gate and turret were rebuilt in 1982, with further restorations completed in 1993. The site became a National Historic Site in 2007.

Have a relaxing stroll through the park, with its waterfalls, statues and shrines. Get great views of the surrounding landscape from the top of the walls. In spring, the grounds are awash in pink as its cherry trees bloom.

From October to November, you can see the annual Chrysanthemum Dolls Festival, which features mannequins dressed in clothing made of chrysanthemums, re-enacting scenes from history and literature. The flowers are also arranged in various different shapes.