Yokote Park

This park takes its shape from the ruins of the Asakura Castle, a fortress built in 1554 by Onodera Terumichi. Asakura Castle and its Ninomaru (outer citadels) were destroyed by gunfire in 1868 during the Boshin War. The castle is also infamous as a place where 21 of the castle’s warriors were killed in the fierce battle.
Nowadays the park has the Tenshukaku-style observatory (Open: April to November, Admission fee: 100 JPY), which is loved by the locals. The observatory on the fourth floor commands a panoramic view of the Yokote Basin. In particular, the beautiful range of Mt. Chokai is a must-see. Inside the observatory you will discover a gallery of folk materials that hosts special exhibitions themed on the history, customs, or culture of Yokote year-round.
The 450-year-old Yokote Snow Festival takes place every February around Yokote Park, Yokote City Hall Road Park, and Hagurocho Bukeyashiki Street. Be sure to visit and see all snow igloos created in the park, where local children await to offer amazake (sweet fermented rice drink) and rice cakes.