Japan Guide
Shikoku
Takamatsu-jō
Opposite the JR station is Tamamo-kōen, a pleasant park which contains the ruins of the city's castle, Takamatsu-jō. Four hundred years ago this was one of the three major Japanese fortresses protected by sea, with three rings of moats surrounding the central keep. Like many of Japan's castles, Takamatsu-jō was decommissioned in 1869 following the Meiji Restoration; all that remains today are a couple of turrets, parts of the moat, and grounds that are only a ninth of their original size. Still, it has a fantastic display of blossom on the cherry trees in spring and, if you climb the raised mound on which once stood the keep, you'll get a great view out across the Inland Sea. At the park's east end you can also look around the very traditional Hiunkaku, a sprawling wooden mansion surrounded by stunted pines. Rebuilt in 1917, it's now used as public rooms. Address: Tamamo-kōen Opening time: Times vary through the year but always 7am–5pmPrice: ¥200