Akashi Park

Akashi Park is an urban park in Akashi City, Hyōgo Prefecture, created around the ruins of Akashi Castle on the Akamatsuyama plateau. Along with preserved remains such as turrets, moats, and stone walls from the nationally designated historic site of Akashi Castle, the park also contains various sports facilities and cultural institutions such as a public library. Access to Akashi Park is about a 5-minute walk from JR Akashi Station (Sanyō Main Line) or Sanyō Electric Railway Akashi Station. Around Gō-no-ike Pond in the park, about 2,000 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees have been planted, and the park has been selected as one of Japan’s "Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots," attracting many visitors in spring. Despite being an urban park, it is rich in greenery, with many trees and plants such as camphor trees, columbines, zelkovas, and Japanese bayberries. The varied hills, ponds, and moats create a beautiful harmony, making it enjoyable in any season. Another feature is the abundance of waterfront areas, including Gō-no-ike, Yagen-bori, Sakura-bori, and Higurashi-ike. At Gō-no-ike, you can ride rowboats or pedal boats and relax while observing waterbirds that sometimes fly in. The large lawn plaza is also a highlight, and on holidays it fills with families enjoying picnics.