Great place for families with kids. It's also really close to the train station.
Hirakata Park | Review by 簡龍
Other Reviews by 簡龍
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Sumoto Castle Ruins
Castle ruins located at the summit of Mt. Mikuma, Approx. 133 meters above sea level, in eastern Awaji Island. From the Sengoku period to the Edo period, it served as a base for governing Awaji Province. It is said to have been built in 1526 by the Ataka clan, who led the Awaji navy, and was later renovated by the Wakisaka clan into the stone-walled castle that remains today. From the ruins, you can enjoy a sweeping view not only of Sumoto City but also of Osaka Bay, making it a stronghold worthy of being called a fortress of the southern seas.
You have to hike up a short mountain path, and you’ll break a bit of a sweat, but the view from the castle ruins is really nice. You can look out over all of Sumoto City and the ocean, which feels super rewarding.
There aren’t many buildings left at the site, so it’s more of a place to enjoy the scenery and take in the history.
It’s not crowded, and the atmosphere is nice and peaceful. On a sunny day, it’s a great spot for a walk and some photos. If you don’t mind a bit of walking, this is definitely a worthwhile stop on Awaji Island. -
Lake Yamanaka（Yamanaka-ko）
Lake Yamanaka covers an area of about 6.57 square kilometers and is about 980.5 meters above sea level. It is located at the third highest point in Japan. The lake is the closest to Mt. Fuji among the “Fuji Five Lakes " and offers beautiful scenery of the four seasons with the majestic Mt.Fuji.
The scenery at Lake Yamanaka is really beautiful.
But the spots are quite far from each other, so driving is the best way to see everything without feeling rushed.
Hirano-no-Hama, Nagasaki Lakeside Park, and the swan boat area are all easy to visit in one smooth loop if you have a car. -
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Kitami Shrine
Founded in 1897 as a spiritual anchor for pioneer settlers, this shrine enshrines Amaterasu Omikami, Toyoukehime no Kami, and Sumiyoshi Okami. It was originally called Gokoku Shrine, but in 1942 it was renamed to its current name. Revered as the local guardian shrine since the pioneering era, it is now also a popular spot for Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the New Year, among Kitami residents.
The snowy scenery is absolutely beautiful. Visiting in winter feels really peaceful, and there aren’t many people around, so you can take your time walking around without dealing with crowds.
