Ashino Park (芦野公園)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A roughly 80-hectare park spreading along the shore of Lake Ashino, said to be where Dazai Osamu played as a young child. Known as a cherry blossom spot selected among Japan's 100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots, the park is even crossed by the Tsugaru Railway's tracks, offering railway fans an irresistible location to watch the small diesel railcar run right past through the trees. There's a statue of Dazai Osamu in a cape and a literary monument, and the lakeside promenade is perfect for a leisurely stroll. At the red-roofed cafe Ekisha, housed in the former station building, you can also take a break while soaking in the atmosphere of the old waiting room. With grandchildren playing in the plaza, parents photographing the train, and grandparents touring the literary monuments, this is a fitting spot to close out your trip to Kanagi, letting three generations each spend the day as they please.

Tips

Take the Tsugaru Railway one stop from Kanagi Station and get off at Ashino-koen Station, and the park is right there. It's also about a 25-minute walk. Return trains are infrequent, so check the station timetable before you start strolling. If you plan to use the cafe Ekisha, it closes relatively early, so it's reassuring to stop by earlier in the day.

Best time to visit

About 1 hour 15 minutes. A lakeside walk in the soft light of evening feels wonderful. Timing your visit with a train's passing also gives you a photo opportunity

Access & map

〒037-0202 青森県五所川原市金木町芦野