Castle & Palace · Ako
Ako Castle Ruins 赤穂城
Rare flatland castle by the Seto Inland Sea, home of the lords of the 47 Ronin story; Top 100 Castle with restored gardens.
HoursGarden facilities 10:00-16:00 (last entry 15:30)
PriceFree
Getting thereJR Banshu-Ako Station, 20 min walk
Time needed1-2 hours
Best timeEarly April; December 14 (Gishi Festival)
AddressKariya, Ako, Hyogo
Websiteako-hyg.ed.jp/bunkazai/akojo
About
Ako Castle was completed in 1661 and is famous as the domain of Asano Naganori, whose retainers became the 47 Ronin. Stone walls, gates and turrets have been restored, and the Honmaru and Ninomaru gardens are designated Places of Scenic Beauty. The castle grounds are free and lie a short walk from Oishi Shrine.
Highlights
- Honmaru and Ninomaru gardens (Places of Scenic Beauty)
- Reconstructed Otemon gate and turret
- Links to the 47 Ronin and Oishi Shrine
- Cherry blossoms in spring
Tips
- 20 min walk from JR Banshu-Ako Station
- Visit on December 14 for the Ako Gishi Festival
- Grounds are free; garden interior facilities have set hours
Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-11
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