Transition of the Hirosaki Castle Site to a Public Park and Role of Castle Tower

Abstract

This paper examines how the Hirosaki Castle site became a public park and the role of the castle tower. The site was administered by the Army Ministry. The city of Hirosaki petitioned the government for permission to lease the site and convert it into a park, a plan supported by the Tsugaru family, descendants of the former feudal lords. The plan was approved and the park was born. The Tsugaru family subsidized the maintenance of the park. The castle tower was used as a museum. Subsequently, the city applied to purchase the castle tower from the government due to the deterioration of the stone walls supporting it. Permission was granted, and the castle tower was reconstructed at a new location. The associated costs were borne by the Tsugaru family.