Historic Site Takamatsu Castle Ruins, Tamamo Park

A Rare "Water Castle" Overlooking the Seto Inland Sea

Takamatsu, the central city of Kagawa Prefecture, is home to Tamamo Park, a historical site built on the ruins of Takamatsu Castle. Known as one of Japan’s three great “mizushiro” (water castles), the castle was designed with seawater drawn directly into its moats, creating a unique connection between the castle and the sea.

Takamatsu Castle was originally built in the late 16th century by Chikamasa Ikoma and later became the residence of the Matsudaira clan. Today, its stone walls, turrets, gates, and moats remain within Tamamo Park, inviting visitors to explore the history of this distinctive coastal castle.

Historical Remains and a Beautiful Japanese Garden

As you enter Tamamo Park, the historical remains of Takamatsu Castle immediately catch your eye. Although the castle’s main keep no longer exists, the impressive stone walls, turrets, and gates still preserve the atmosphere of the former castle. Among them are the Tsukimi Yagura (Moon-Viewing Turret), Watari Yagura (Connecting Turret), and Mizutegomon (Water Gate), all designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan.

The Mizutegomon is especially unique, as it faces the sea and was designed to allow boats to enter the castle directly. This rare feature offers a glimpse into the strategic design of Takamatsu Castle as a water castle.

Inside the park, visitors can also enjoy the greenery and seasonal scenery of the former castle grounds. Cherry blossoms brighten the park in spring, while autumn brings colorful foliage. The combination of stone walls, moats, trees, and garden scenery creates a peaceful atmosphere while retaining the character of the historic castle site.

Unique Experience #1: Feeding Sea Bream in the Castle Moat

One of Tamamo Park’s most fascinating experiences is feeding sea bream in the castle moat. Unlike most castle moats, the moats of Takamatsu Castle are connected to the sea and contain seawater, allowing sea bream and other marine fish to live there.

Visitors can purchase fish food within the park and enjoy watching the fish gather near the surface. Known as “Taigan Joju,” this playful experience is a unique way to discover the connection between Takamatsu Castle and the sea.

Unique Experience #2: A Traditional Wooden Boat Ride

Another memorable experience at Tamamo Park is a ride aboard the traditional-style wooden boat “Tamamo-maru.” The boat was modeled after a Japanese boat depicted in a historical folding screen showing Takamatsu in the mid-17th century.

Today, visitors can enjoy a boat ride around the inner moat while listening to stories from the boatman and viewing the castle remains from the water. The experience also includes the opportunity to feed the sea bream swimming in the moat, offering a different perspective on Takamatsu Castle’s unique relationship with the sea.

Discover the History of Takamatsu Castle

Tamamo Park is a fascinating destination for visitors interested in Japanese history, traditional architecture, and gardens. Located in the heart of Takamatsu and close to Takamatsu Port, the park offers a chance to explore the remains of one of Japan’s best-known water castles.

Stroll along the historic stone walls, see the surviving turrets and gates, feed sea bream in the seawater moat, and take a traditional-style boat ride. A visit to Tamamo Park offers a memorable way to experience the unique history of Takamatsu Castle and its enduring connection with the sea.

Opening hours and castle boat operating schedules vary by season and may be subject to change. Please check the official Tamamo Park website for the latest information before your visit.

http://www.takamatsujyo.com/