ORIGINAL ARCHITECTURE: A Taste of the Authentic
On this tour, you'll experience the authentic remaining architecture of Akō Castle and the castle town. You'll explore various temples that have stood in the castle town since the Edo period, buildings from the Edo period within the castle grounds, and most importantly, the castle walls of Akō Castle. Enjoy the beauty and historical depth that only authentic architecture can provide.
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- Exploring Akō Castle
- ORIGINAL ARCHITECTURE: A Taste of the Authentic
On this tour, you'll experience the authentic remaining architecture of Akō Castle and the castle town. You'll explore various temples that have stood in the castle town since the Edo period, buildings from the Edo period within the castle grounds, and most importantly, the castle walls of Akō Castle. Enjoy the beauty and historical depth that only authentic architecture can provide.
Water Supply Wells
The roads of the castle town of Akō weren't straight lines and had many turns. These wells were a part of the Old Akō Waterworks and were at intersections during the Edo period. The wells are under the grates.
View Location on Google MapsAkō Salt Production Tools
These tools were used in producing salt at the Irihama salt farm, which shut down in 1945, and were urgently gathered by local historians. These tools have been designated as Important Tangible Cultural Properties.
View Location on Google MapsWater Pipes Under Ote Gate Bridge
The supply lines of Old Akō Waterworks, built in the early years of the Edo period, drew water into the castle grounds by laying pipes under the moat. However, major repairs during the Showa period used clay pipes under the bridge to supply water. This is the final form of Old Akō Waterworks.
View Location on Google MapsKondo Genpachi Residence Gate
This gate is one of the few remaining structures within Akō Castle from the Edo period, and it has been designated as a Tangible Cultural Property by the city of Akō. The interior is specially open to the public on weekends and holidays.
View Location on Google MapsNinomaru Gardens
These daimyo gardens spanning 15,000 square meters were found in excellent condition through excavation efforts. Repairs have incorporated the remaining elements.
View Location on Google MapsHonmaru Garden Pond
As it was the previous location of the Akō Public High School campus, though excavation efforts were made, many structures were destroyed. The gardens were underground, which left them in excellent condition. Repairs to the garden have incorporated the remaining elements.
View Location on Google MapsRemnants of the Honmaru Garden Pond Underdrain
The remnants of the underdrain that were excavated and put on display as-is. The display shows how high the ground level was at the time.
View Location on Google Maps