Guida
Kawashima Castle is a historical site of a medieval mountain castle located in Kawashima Town, Yoshino River City, Tokushima Prefecture. Built along the Yoshino River, this castle was once a vital strategic point, recognized as one of the "Awa Nine Castles." Today, the site has been developed into Kawashima Park, serving as a public oasis where visitors can enjoy a blend of history and nature. The most striking feature is the multi-layered castle tower, which boasts a traditional Japanese aesthetic with its brilliant white plaster walls and elegant black tiled roofs.
The history of this area dates back to the Sengoku (Warring States) period. It is said that Kawashima Bei-no-shin (also known as Kawashima Koretada), a vassal of the Miyoshi clan, built the castle in place of Kamizakura Castle following his achievements. In 1585, following the entry of Hachisuka Iemasa into the region, Hayashi Dokan was appointed as the castle warden. However, with the issuance of the "One Castle per Province" edict in 1638 during the early Edo period, the castle ceased its military role and became an abandoned castle. Until the Meiji era, it served as an administrative center for the local government. In 1981, the castle-style structures were reconstructed in their current form to serve as a tourism and recreation facility.
The centerpiece of Kawashima Castle is the impressive structure of the castle tower within the park. The contrast between the white walls and black tiles reflects the quintessential design of traditional Japanese fortifications. Visitors can also enjoy strolling along the well-maintained paths surrounding the castle ruins, feeling the traces of its historical past. The surrounding lush greenery provides a changing landscape that offers a different charm in every season.
The best time to visit Kawashima Castle is during the spring, specifically from late March to early April. During this period, the castle is surrounded by a sea of blooming cherry blossoms, creating a spectacular view where the pink flowers frame the white-walled tower. The contrast of the pale pink blossoms against the blue sky and white walls is incredibly photogenic. Visiting during daylight hours on a clear day is highly recommended to fully appreciate the harmony between the architecture and the natural environment.
Today, the area is primarily used for leisure activities such as walking and enjoying nature. As you walk along the paths, you can observe the topography of the former mountain castle and the intricate details of the reconstructed architecture. Please note that the restaurant facilities that were once located inside the building closed in April 2019, so access to the interior for dining or specialized indoor experiences is currently restricted. It is an ideal destination for a quiet walk or a relaxing retreat in nature.
The area around Yoshino River City offers many other historical and natural attractions. For instance, you can explore other sites related to Tokushima's castle culture, such as the Tokushima Castle ruins or the Tokushima Castle Museum. The natural environment shaped by the Yoshino River basin also makes this a great area for driving and sightseeing through the eastern part of Tokushima.
Since you will be walking along park paths, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes (such as sneakers). Please dress according to the season to prepare for weather changes. It is important to note that the interior facilities of the castle tower closed in 2019; if you intended to tour the inside, please check the current status beforehand. While entry to the park is free, please carry cash or a credit card for any nearby food and beverage-related expenses. As this is a public park, please follow local etiquette and ensure you take all your trash home with you.