The Maruoka Castle Tourist Information Center, located near Maruoka Castle in Sakai City, officially opened its doors on March 15, 2025, attracting many visitors eager to explore what it has to offer.
Named the "Maruoka Castle Machiyori Market," the center has been developed by Sakai City as part of its efforts to promote tourism near this important cultural heritage site, which is recognized as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The center houses various facilities, including a tourist information desk, local produce stores, and food and beverage outlets.
During the opening festivities, renowned talent Takanashi Ai, hailing from Sakai City, graced the event and took part in the traditional mirror-opening ceremony, symbolizing the official start of operations. With cheers of "yoisho!" the moment was filled with excitement and energy, marking the beginning of what is anticipated to be a significant addition to local tourism.
Following the ceremony, surge of eager locals and tourists filled the new center. Many took advantage of the beautifully constructed seating areas, allowing them to savor meals against the backdrop of the stunning Maruoka Castle. Visitors also engaged in shopping, exploring the local products available at the market.
One pleased visitor, a man in his 60s from Ono City, expressed his admiration for the architecture, stating, "The building is beautifully made and I am satisfied. I think the scenery will be even more breathtaking when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, so I'm looking forward to it." His enthusiasm for the location and the facility highlighted the anticipation for the future seasons.
Another area resident, a woman in her 30s, shared her excitement about the new space, saying, "It's a good facility because I can come to have tea with friends and buy local products." This sentiment reflects the center's multifaceted role, creating not just a tourist hub, but also serving as a communal space for residents.
Adding to its attractions, the Maruoka Castle Tourist Information Center features a gallery showcasing virtual reality experiences. This innovative technology recreates the castle tower of Maruoka Castle and displays immersive visuals depicting scenes from the Edo period, offering visitors both education and entertainment. Guests enjoyed being transported back to historical times through the VR gallery, which adds depth to their visit and solidifies the center's position as not just an informative hub but also as a cultural experience.
Overall, the opening of the Maruoka Castle Tourist Information Center marks not only the enhancement of tourism infrastructure but also reflects Sakai City’s commitment to promoting and preserving its rich cultural heritage. Both locals and tourists alike are now able to access relevant information and products, making their experiences around Maruoka Castle all the more enriching.
With plans to host more events and provide detailed information about local attractions, the Maruoka Castle Tourist Information Center is poised to become a cornerstone for visitors seeking to explore the beauty and history of Sakai City.
To sum up, the newly opened Maruoka Castle Tourist Information Center stands as a beacon of cultural pride and community spirit. It promises to attract not just history buffs and tourists alike but also locals who wish to celebrate their heritage, enjoy leisure time, and stay connected to their roots through shared spaces. The future looks bright for this important new addition to Sakai City.