HyogoFood

A Leisurely Stroll Around Two Towers and the Moat at Akashi Park, Site of One of Japan's Top 100 Castles

About this spot

A Hyogo Prefectural urban park covering about 55 hectares centered on the site of Akashi Castle, selected as one of Japan's top 100 castles. Although no main castle tower was built at Akashi Castle, the Tatsu-yagura and Kon-yagura towers standing at both ends of the stone walls on the former main enclosure are three-story towers that have survived since the Edo period and are designated as National Important Cultural Properties. The sight of the two towers standing side by side on the stone walls is Akashi's symbol. Viewing this landscape, visible even from the train platform, up close has great impact. Throughout the park, well-maintained scenic walking paths wind around the moat and Takeshino Pond, offering seasonal flowers and birdwatching opportunities—perfect for an afternoon stroll to walk off that Akashi-yaki. If tired, you and your friends can lie back on the lawn to rest in a relaxed, carefree way.

Tips

Directly in front of the north exit of JR/Sanyo Akashi Station—the moat and stone walls are visible from the station plaza. The park is spacious, so a compact loop route going from the main entrance to the two towers and around Takeshino Pond is recommended. Restrooms and shops are scattered throughout the park, and the towers sometimes open for interior viewing during certain periods.