Takamatsu Castle (Tamamo Park)

The castle's unique seawater moat system is best appreciated during the twice-daily feeding of the resident sea bream, when these large saltwater fish gather in schools near the feeding platform. The feedings occur at 10 AM and 3 PM on weekends, and watching marine fish swim in a castle moat provides a surreal juxtaposition of natural and human history. For photography enthusiasts, the restored Tsukimi Yagura moon-viewing turret offers the most photogenic angle, particularly during cherry blossom season in early April when over 100 sakura trees bloom along the moats. The reflection of the white-walled turret in the moat's calm water creates classic Japanese castle compositions. The castle has ongoing restoration projects, with plans to reconstruct the main keep based on historical records and excavated foundation stones. The Hiunkaku villa in the park's northern section hosts occasional tea ceremony demonstrations in its traditional tearoom, offering views of the carefully maintained garden. The castle's location just minutes from Takamatsu Station makes it an ideal first or last stop when visiting Kagawa, as the city's main ferry terminal for art island access is equally close. Combine your castle visit with a walk along Takamatsu's Marugame-machi shopping arcade, one of Shikoku's longest covered shopping streets. The arcade preserves several historical buildings while offering modern shopping and dining. Evening visits to the castle are particularly atmospheric as the walls and turrets are illuminated, and the park becomes a peaceful retreat from urban bustle. The nearby Takamatsu Symbol Tower observation deck offers panoramic city views including an overhead perspective of the castle layout. During summer, the park hosts occasional outdoor concerts and cultural events. Winter morning visits often feature dramatic fog rising from the warmer seawater moats into cold air, creating mysterious atmospheres around the stone walls.