Zakimi Castle Site Park “Wooden Way” Jogging/Walking Trail

CONTRIBUTED BY JENNIFER GILES

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Clik here to view. Zakimi walking path-003

Zakimi Castle Site Park has a paved trail that leads to “Wooden Way”, a long boardwalk that runs through a dense forest near Zakimi Castle.

To get to the trail, park in the north parking lot in the Zakimi Castle Site Park. Run up the stone steps across from the restrooms and hit up the observatory for a beautiful view of the west coast.

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Clik here to view. Zakimi walking path-001

From there you can continue on the paved trail to skirt the north side of the castle. Take a quick pit stop inside to view the interior if you have not visited the castle before.

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Clik here to view. Zakimi walking path-002

Continue down the outside trail, moving away from the castle and down the hill until you see a sign stating “155m Museum – Art Museum”. Take the immediate left.

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Clik here to view. Zakimi walking path-004

In less than 100 meters you will see a stone pathway on the left that leads downhill into a dense tropical forest.

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Clik here to view. Zakimi walking path-006

The wooden way is on the left at the bottom of the stone pathway. It will take you up and down a series of staircases through the forest.

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Clik here to view. Zakimi walking path-007 Image may be NSFW.
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The woods are full of butterflies, flowers, birds and, oh yes, lots of mosquitos, so don’t forget the bug spray. The trail will lead you to the back of the Zakimi Castle Site Park, and loop you back to the parking lot.

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Clik here to view. Zakimi walking path-009

The loop around the park felt to be less than two miles but can easily be supplemented with a run down the winding back roads leading to Nagahama Dam. This park trail is great for all ages and abilities. Highly recommended if you, like me, like to get in a run while sightseeing.