Settsukyo Park

A 42.65-hectare scenic park spanning the upper reaches of the Akutagawa River in northern Takatsuki City. Its gorge, lined with striking rock formations and cliffs like the Meoto-iwa (Couple Rocks) and Hachijo-iwa, is a scenic spot called 'Settsu Yabakei,' ranked among Osaka's 100 Green Landscapes. The roughly 4km stretch from the upper to lower entrance makes an ideal hiking course. With about 230 cherry trees including Somei-yoshino, a cherry blossom plaza with swings and slides, an open-air theater, and a campground, it draws crowds year-round. The park's northernmost point holds the refreshing Shirataki Falls (15m high), and a quiet stone monument to haiku poet Yamaguchi Seishi stands along the path from the lower entrance to the falls. Close to the city yet soothing with birdsong and clear running water, it's a precious forest-bathing spot.