Modern Expansion and improvements of Akashi Park by Hyogo Prefecture and the Role of Scenic Areas

Abstract

This paper examines the course of the expansion and improvements made to Akashi Park following its establishment by Hyogo Prefecture on the site of Akashi Castle in 1918, and the role of scenic areas in these events. The park was established on leased land that formed only part of the grounds of an imperial estate, so the space available was insufficient. In 1922 the prefecture leased an additional wooded parcel of the imperial estate to the north of the park, and work on the expansion of the park was completed in 1924. This improvement work was not related to the former appearance of the site in early modern times or its history. The prefecture later purchased from the central government the site of the park as well as the remainder of the imperial estate, and further improvements and expansion of the park proceeded from 1929 onward. As part of this process, trees were felled and the moat filled in to build a baseball stadium. Thus, the building of a modern public park facility was given precedence over preservation of scenic areas and historical remains.