Tsuruga Castle, also known as Aizuwakamatsu Castle, has a long and fascinating history dating back to the 14th century. However, the current building is actually a reconstruction that was completed in 1965. Despite this, the castle’s striking black-and-white appearance and its panoramic view of the surrounding area make it a popular tourist attraction in Fukushima. Spring is an especially good time to visit the castle, as the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom and an annual festival takes place during this period. The festival offers a variety of activities, including evening sakura illuminations, sake tasting, tea ceremonies, and more. It’s worth noting that some events, such as sake tasting and tea ceremonies, are not held every day during the festival, so it’s advisable to check the official event website if you have specific activities in mind.