Ako, Historical castle town in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan
Ako sits between Hyogo and Okayama prefectures on the coast of the Harima Sea, where the Chikusa River runs through the town. Most attractions cluster around the castle ruins in the center, while salt fields and parks line the waterfront.
The town became known in the early 18th century when 47 samurai avenged their deceased lord Asano Naganori and then committed ritual suicide. This incident inspired countless plays and films and still shapes the townscape today with monuments and museums.
The annual parade on December 14th honors the story of the loyal warriors with street processions in historical dress. Visitors see performers in samurai armor walk through town accompanied by drum groups and traditional chants.
Travelers reach the town from Osaka in about two hours by train and find most sights within walking distance around the castle ruins. The visit combines well with a walk through the coastal park where visitors can buy local salt products.
At the coastal park visitors can watch salt being harvested using centuries-old methods where seawater evaporates in shallow pools. The variety produced here is considered particularly mild and is used in the region for fish dishes.
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