Side Trip in Ogaki

                         Ogaki City is one of the progressive cities in Gifu prefecture. There are lots of interesting shops and restaurants near Ogaki station. Just ten minutes away from it, you can reach Ogaki castle on foot. I decided to go to this castle on my way to Osaka because I know the important role it played during the Battle of Sekigahara.

                         I was surprised to know that the castle is surrounded by many residential houses. Anyone not looking for it but found himself in the area would be surprised that there's a town's jewel right in the middle of ordinary houses.

                     It might not be so special to someone who has been to bigger Japanese castles but it's still worth to see especially during the cherry blossoms season. It's a very good spot for having hanami (flower viewing) picnic. It also has a small playground near the castle ground so families with children would surely enjoy their stay here.

                        On my way back to the station, I was lucky to pass by a line of cherry blossom trees next to the river. I also witnessed a group of people who were riding on a boat to enjoy the season more.

It must really be a great experience but I unfortunately didn't have time to do it too.