The park offers distinct experiences across seasons. Spring features beautiful cherry trees, with the annual Hanagatami Cherry Blossom Festival held in early April when approximately 1,000 cherry trees bloom throughout the grounds. Autumn brings gorgeous fall foliage, with late November being peak season for autumn leaves. The hillside becomes covered in colorful maple trees, creating a spectacular natural display. Both seasons are equally popular, though autumn tends to be less crowded despite the stunning views.
Kakyo Park is located in eastern Echizen City, not far from the famed 'Paper Village'. The park is most easily accessed by car, with parking available on-site. For those using public transportation, take a train from Fukui Station to reach Echizen City, then arrange local transportation such as a taxi to reach the park, as it's located in the Awatabe area away from the main train stations.
The park features multiple attractions including Konpira Shrine at the hilltop, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the winding pathways up the approximately 300-meter-high hill, discover 33 Buddhist statues in Iwashimizu, and visit the adjacent Okafuto Shrine founded by Emperor Keitai. The park also has Furusato-no Ie, a community space and cafe where you can rest and enjoy views of the seasonal scenery. A Noh stage within the grounds reflects the park's connection to the classical Hanagatami performance.
The park's name derives from the famous Yokyoku (Noh) song called Hanagatami, which means "flower basket." The Noh dance, written during the Muromachi period and attributed to Zeami, tells the romantic story of Emperor Keitai and his lover Teruhi, whom he left behind in Echizen province when he departed for Kyoto to become the 26th emperor of Japan. This historical and cultural connection gives the park special significance as a place commemorating ancient Japanese literature and imperial history.
