Maruoka Castle is one of the oldest extant castle towers in Japan, dating back to 1576.
The castle is famously one of the few in Japan that retains its original wooden, rather than concrete, roof tiles.
The park's nickname, 'Kasumigajo,' translates to 'Mist Castle' due to the frequent fog that surrounds the hill in the spring.
The park is recognized as one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots.
The castle keep is built in a style known as 'nosura-zumi,' using rough, unhewn stones to prevent collapse during heavy rains.
Kasumigajo Park surrounds the historical Maruoka Castle, one of Japan's twelve original surviving castle keeps. The park is renowned as a premier cherry blossom viewing destination, featuring approximately 400 Somei Yoshino trees. The castle keep, known as Kasumigajo or 'Mist Castle,' derives its name from a local legend where the structure appeared shrouded in mist whenever the enemy approached. The park grounds serve as a cultural landmark within the Sakai area of Fukui Prefecture. It remains open to the public year-round, functioning as both a recreational space and a site of historical preservation.
The park entrance paths during the cherry blossom season offer the most iconic angle of the castle tower.
Visit during the early spring bloom to see the grounds illuminated at night.
Wear comfortable, non-slip footwear for climbing the steep, original wooden stairs inside the castle tower.
Check local weather reports, as the park is situated on elevated terrain that can be exposed to wind.
Do not attempt to climb the steep internal stairs if you have mobility issues or are carrying large bags.
The interior of the castle keep may be inaccessible during extreme weather events; the park grounds are otherwise accessible daily.
Maintain silence inside the castle keep; remove footwear before entering the interior wooden areas.
