Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Tamamo Park is an urban park facing Takamatsu Port in the center of Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, and was developed on the site of the former Takamatsu Castle (commonly known as Tamamo Castle or Takamatsu Castle). Historical sites of the castle ruins, such as the unusual moat (seawater moat) that draws seawater and is known as an "umijiro" (sea castle), as well as stone walls, gate ruins, and watchtowers from the Edo period, have been well preserved, and one of the park's great attractions is that you can enjoy both historical scenery and seaside views at the same time.
The garden is blessed with seasonal plants, allowing visitors to enjoy the changing seasons, such as cherry blossoms and plum blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, and autumn leaves. As it is close to the city center and easily accessible, it is a popular spot for sightseeing, strolls, and photography. In recent years, restoration and preservation repairs have been progressing, making it a place well worth seeing for those who want to enjoy castle architecture and strolling around the castle ruins.
Highlights
- Kaisui-bori (a moat facing the sea) - Tamamo Park is unique in that its scenery changes with the tides.
- Stone walls, castle gate ruins, and watchtower base - you can observe the remains of the castle up close and feel the breath of history.
- Takamatsu Castle Ruins Walking Path — A walking path that connects the coastal area with the inner area, where you can take a leisurely stroll while feeling the sea breeze.
- Seasonal flowers (cherry blossoms, plum blossoms, azaleas, autumn leaves, etc.) - It is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing, especially during cherry blossom season.
- Exhibition facilities (if available) — There may be facilities exhibiting the castle's history and artifacts (please check opening times in advance).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train: About a 10-15 minute walk from JR Takamatsu Station. About a 3-5 minute walk from Kotoden (Kotohira Electric Railway) Takamatsu-Chikko Station. Both are within walking distance from the city center.
- Bus: Take a local bus from Takamatsu Station or anywhere in the city to the Takamatsu Chikko or Sunport Takamatsu area, then it's a short walk from there.
- By car: As the area is in the city, you will need to use public parking lots or nearby paid parking lots. As parking spaces are limited, we recommend using public transportation, especially on weekends and during peak tourist seasons.
- Ferry/High-Speed Boat: It is close to Takamatsu Port and is also close to the departure and arrival points for boats to Naoshima, Shodoshima, and other islands, making it a convenient base for sightseeing.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Quick tour: 30-45 minutes (to quickly tour the moat and main ruins)
- A leisurely stroll: 1-2 hours (if you want to take your time enjoying the exhibits, taking photos, and the surrounding scenery)
- Combine with sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day (when combining with Ritsurin Garden, the port area, and island hopping)
Nearby spots
- Ritsurin Garden — Takamatsu's representative feudal lord garden. Easily accessible from Tamamo Park, it's perfect for a combined visit.
- Sunport Takamatsu / Takamatsu Port — Explore the harbor and waterfront, and access the ferry terminal (to Naoshima and Shodoshima).
- Takamatsu City Museum of Art / Various cultural facilities in the city - We recommend checking the exhibition and event information and visiting them at the same time.
- You can also go a little further and tour the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, including Yashima, Megijima, and Ogijima.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The area gets crowded during cherry blossom season, Golden Week, the summer tourist season, and consecutive holidays. Please plan your walks and photography with plenty of time.
- Manners: There are areas within the historic site that are off-limits and that you should not climb. Please be careful not to damage the stone walls or ruins, and follow the instructions. Please also take your trash home with you or dispose of it in the designated areas.
- Tides and weather: Because it faces the sea, the scenery changes depending on the strong sea breeze and the tide level. Be careful on rainy or windy days as some areas can become slippery.
- Insect repellent: As there are many trees and waterside areas, insects (such as mosquitoes) can be a concern from spring to summer. If you plan to take a long walk, it is a good idea to bring insect repellent.
- Opening Information: Some facilities may have set admission fees and opening hours. Please check the official website or local information before visiting for the latest information (opening days, fees, special events, etc.).
*Please be sure to check the official website of Tamamo Park (Takamatsu Castle Ruins) or Takamatsu City's tourist information for the latest opening hours, admission fees, exhibition information, temporary closures, etc.
