Iwatsuki Castle Park is one of the best sakura viewing spots in Saitama Prefecture, with around 600 trees turning the grounds into a magical pink wonderland during springtime. An annual festival takes place when the blossoms are at their best, and it has been running for almost 50 years now.
Along with the beautiful sakura to appreciate, the two-day event also includes food and drink booths, plant, flower, and local produce sales, taiko drumming performances (on Sunday only), and more.
In addition to the daytime festivities, there will be lantern illuminations from 6pm until 9pm.
Getting there
Iwatsuki Castle Park is located around 25 minutes on foot from Higashi Iwatsuki Station, which is served by the Tobu Urban Park Line.
For those who opt to drive, the park is 10 minutes from the Iwatsuki IC on the Tohoku Expressway. There are several parking areas nearby, but do note they are likely to fill quickly during the festival dates.
