🗺️ Takaoka Kojo Park

Located in the center of Takaoka City, this designated national historic park is one of Japan's top moat parks. Takaoka Castle was built in the 14th year of the Keicho era (1609) by the second lord of the Kaga Maeda clan, Maeda Toshinaga. It has now been developed into a moat park, preserving the stone walls from the time of its construction. The vast area surrounded by three moats includes facilities such as shrines, museums, a zoo, and dining establishments. The cherry trees and various types of trees are lush and dense, allowing visitors to enjoy the unique scenery of each season. Takaoka Castle features the Honmaru, Ninomaru, and Kajimaru, covering a total area of 71,261 tsubo, making it quite expansive. In the 20th year of the Keicho era (1615), it was dismantled and abandoned under the Tokugawa shogunate's one castle per province policy. Fortunately, the moats have retained their original appearance, with the Honmaru ruins surrounded by an inner moat and encircled by an outer moat. The park houses nearly 20 works by representative Japanese sculptors, showcasing the essence of the traditional craftsmanship of "Takaoka, the City of Copper." Additionally, there are various three-dimensional works and stone monuments, making walks through the park particularly enjoyable. There are resting areas and benches throughout for the public to relax. Moreover, sightseeing boats that tour the moats are also quite popular.

As a designated national historic park, it is one of Japan's top moat parks. While taking a sightseeing boat to cruise the moat, you can also enjoy the beautiful seasonal scenery. You can appreciate works from multiple sculptors, three-dimensional artworks, and poetry monuments. Restrooms and resting areas are available throughout the park.