Instagrammable travel experiences are not hard to come by in Japan and whilst there is no denying that taking a shot that stands out from the crowd can be a challenge in the land of the rising sun, the historical castle town of Hamamatsu is perfect proof that it is possible.

Here are Hamamatsu's best hidden and well-known Instagram experiences to inspire your feed:

Cherry Blossoms by the Water “Akiha Dam Senbon-zakura”
Found mainly around the Akiha Dam reservoir, cherry trees extend for about 10 kilometres along the east shore of the Tenryugawa River. Known as the "thousand cherry trees" (senbon-zakura), the view of these blossoms in full bloom is stunning. The annual Sakura Festival from late March to early April coincides with the flowering blossoms. This year, the festival will be held from 18 March – 9 April 2023. Learn more.

Travel back in Time  at The Princess Road Procession “Himes ama dochu”
Held since 1952, the Princess Road Procession (Hime-sama Dochu) is a festival that reproduces the travels by the daughters of noble families and feudal lords on Himekaido in the Edo Period. The scene of an antique picture scroll unrolls onto the cherry blossom walkway of Miyakoda River. The procession consists of more than a hundred people from princesses in palanquins, their samurai attendants, and servants to an array of noblewomen and chambermaids. This year, the festival will be held on 25 March 2023. Learn more.

A Stroll through Hamamatsu Flower Park
Hamamatsu Flower Park is a 30,000-square-metre facility that holds floral exhibits and festivals. This beautiful park, home to 3,000 different species, features flowers across all seasons, including cherry tree blossoms, roses, and the Japanese Iris. There's also a large greenhouse with seasonal exhibits, and a fountain show held every 30 minutes. Under the park's cherry trees is a famous spot for cherry blossom viewing parties in Hamamatsu City. Learn more.

Watch the Blooms at Hamamatsu Castle Park
Despite its location in the centre of the city of Hamamatsu, Hamamatsu Castle Park is an oasis of greenery. From late March to early April, approximately 360 cherry blossom trees bloom here in plenty of variants, from the primary Somei Yoshino trees to Shidarezakura (weeping cherry blossom) and Yamazakura (wild cherry blossom). During the cherry blossom festival, held this year from 18 March-9 April 2023), lights illuminate Hamamatsu Castle and the cherry blossoms until 9pm. Learn more.

Relax at Bentenjima Kaihin Park
Bentenjima Kaihin Park is a relaxing spot in front of Bentenjima Hot Spring town. Visitors will feel like in a tropical destination. In summer, the area is bustling with families fishing and swimming in the sea. The view of Symbol Tower (a red torii gate) is spectacular, and so is the sunset from Hamana Bridge. Learn more.

For more information, visit https://www.hamamatsu-japan.com/