Hirosaki Castle

We went to the Hirosaki Castle for the Chrysanthemum Festival. The Hirosaki Castle is one of the only castles in Northern Japan. It was built in the 1600's as a five story castle but in the 1800's it  burnt down. So they rebuilt the castle but this time with only three stories. 

We visited on a beautiful fall day. It was a really nice park to walk around in and enjoy the day! Our favorite part was the little kids who performed. The drums that they play are called Taiko drums. We have seen several different Taiko drummer performances but this was the cutest so far!

 

Taiko Drummers

Cute little kids on a field trip!

Hirosaki Castle!

This was the little mascot. He was all over the place.

Chrysanthemums!

Chrysanthemum Kimono anyone?

"Manji"is Hirosaki's symbol and it was used well before Hitler used this symbol.The symbol actually means peace & harmony.

Watch out below!

Shinto Shrine

We had a fun day!

Hirosaki was celebrating it's 400th birthday - built in 1611!

Pretty flowers!

Oirase Gorge with the fall colors!

We visited the Oirase Gorge again to check out the fall colors. I think we were a little early because there were still many trees that hadn't changed yet, but the yellow trees were pretty! We also chose a rainy day. Not the best hiking weather but we got out and did it anyways! The waterfalls are beautiful! I really love waterfalls. I think the Oirase Gorge is my favorite place in Northern Japan so far! Enjoy the fall pictures!

There were 2 painters along the trail.

"We are right here!"

So pretty!!