Each year from around early to mid April, the grounds of the Maruoka Castle and the neighboring Kasumigajo Park are home to the Maruoka Castle Cherry Blossom Festival. There are approximately 400 Somei Yoshino sakura trees to enjoy, and they're illuminated after dark during the blooming season as well.
The castle has been designated as an Important Cultural Property, and the grounds feature on the list of Japan's Top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots - something for the nature lovers and the history buffs!
Admission to the park and castle grounds is priced at 450 yen for adults, and 150 yen for elementary and junior high school students. Children below that age receive free admission.