Ueda Castle Koen Park is a top cherry blossom viewing spot in Nagano Prefecture. Ueda Castle (ueda-jo) was built in the late 16th century by the Sanada clan who famously defeated the Tokugawa clan in two battles before finally losing in a third battle. Parts of the impressive fortress still remain today and are part of a scenic park. Whether you are visiting for the natural scenery, the sakura festival in mid-April, the history, or the local oyaki dumplings, Ueda Castle and its park is definitely worth your time.

Photograph provided by Ueda City Multimedia Information Center