Nanko Park is said to be the oldest park in Japan. It was built by Lord Matsudaira Sadanobu of the Shirakawa Domain in 1801 as a place for the commoners to enjoy. The red weeping benishidarezakura on the grounds of Nanko-jinja Shrine is approximately 200 years old and is said to have been planted by Lord Matsudaira when he had the lake built. Some 800 somei yoshino line the lake for a picturesque sight.