Nango Park, Kyoto

Nango Park is a peaceful public park in Kameoka City, located in the former province of Tamba, approximately ten kilometers west of central Kyoto. The park is situated along the northern moat of the historic Tamba Kameyama Castle ruins, providing visitors with an intimate connection to the area's samurai heritage. The castle was constructed beginning in 1577 by Akechi Mitsuhide, a vassal of the powerful warlord Oda Nobunaga, who needed a strategic base to conquer the Tamba region. Mitsuhide infamously departed from this castle in 1582 for the Honnō-ji Incident, where he attacked and forced Nobunaga to commit suicide.

The park's primary attraction is its scenic walking path that circles what was once the castle's outer moat, a body of water large enough that locals refer to it as the "Misui River". A row of cherry trees planted along the moat makes this area ideal for strolling, with a weeping cherry tree in the center that is beautifully illuminated at night. The park entrance features a statue of Mitsuhide flanked by reconstructed shachihachi tiles from the original castle keep. Throughout the seasons, visitors can experience cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, and golden autumn foliage, with well-maintained gardens featuring colorful flowers lining the pathways.

Beyond its natural beauty, Nango Park offers excellent views of the castle ruins from across the water. The area features facilities including public rest areas, vending machines, and seating areas, making it comfortable for extended visits. The park also serves as a popular fishing spot and provides informational displays showing historical depictions of what Kameyama Castle looked like during the Sengoku period, helping visitors imagine the site's strategic importance as a gateway to Kyoto.

Nango Park is located just a 5-minute walk from Kameoka Station on the JR Sagano Line. Entry to the park is free of charge. The park has no dedicated parking facilities, so visitors arriving by car should use alternative parking near the station. For those interested in exploring the actual castle ruins, which are now owned by the Ōmoto religious organization, separate advance reservations and admission fees apply through the organization's headquarters.