Takamatsu is the capital of Kagawa, Japan’s smallest prefecture. The city’s harbor used to be the main entry point to Shikoku Island until the Seto Ohashi Bridge opened in 1988, providing a land connection to Honshu Island.
The Matsudaira Clan, relatives of the Tokugawa Shogun, controlled Takamatsu’s former castle town and surrounding area, then known as the Sanuki Province, during most of the Edo Period.
Today, Takamatsu’s attractions include Ritsurin Koen, arguably one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens; Shikoku Mura, an open air museum; and Yashima, a mountain battle site during the Gempei War. Nearby Kotohira can also be visited in an easy side trip from Takamatsu.
Takamatsu Castle, also known as Tamamo Castle, was built in 1590 adjacent to the Seto Inland Sea. It is one of the few Japanese castles built along a waterfront, and features saltwater moats that draw directly from the sea. The Ikoma Clan ruled from the castle for 54 years before their fief was given to the Matsudaira Clan, relatives of the Tokugawa Shogun, who kept the region for the remainder of the Edo Period.
Takamatsu Castle’s keep was destroyed during the Meiji Period, but is currently being reconstructed. Archaeological excavation began in 2006 and construction of the five story castle tower is scheduled to begin in 2010. It will be opened to the public when finished.
Castle Tower Foundation in 2003
Castle Tower during current excavation
Few of the castle’s original buildings remain in the castle park today. Besides moats and walls, only the Asahimon Gate and two turrets, the Ushitora Yagura and the Tsukimi Yagura, are still standing. Inside the castle walls, visitors can enjoy well kept gardens.
At the center of the castle park is the Hiunkaku building with large tatami rooms. Constructed in 1917 as a residence and governmental office, it is used today as an exhibition space and a community hall where tea ceremony and flower arrangement classes are held.
Hiunkaku
Tsukimi Yagura “Moon Viewing” Turret
Information by http://www.japan-guide.com