Visit HYOGO

Did you know that there’s a place called the “castle in the sky” in Hyogo Prefecture?

In the early morning of a late autumn day, shrouded by a thick morning mist, the castle ruins on top of the 353-meter-high mountain appear as a solitary island floating in a sea of clouds. This magical vista that has captivated so many people has led to the castle being known as “the castle in the sky” and “the Machu Picchu of Japan.”

You’ll see this wondrous view from late September when the temperature is particularly low to early December. Fine, cold mornings offer the opportunity to discover the cloud sea. For the best way to appreciate the castle ruins floating in the clouds, we recommend viewing them from a place called Ritsuunkyo, located across the way.

However, Takeda Castle’s charms don’t stop with the cloud sea. It appears completely different in each season. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the stone walls, enabling you to enjoy the contrast between the powerful stone walls and the brilliant flowers. In summer, you can see the imposing castle ruins against the backdrop of a blue sky as the greenery flourishes. Then there’s winter. On snowy days, the castle transforms into a snowscape. The monochrome scenery possesses a calm, mysterious beauty different to every other season.

The Takeda Castle Ruins are full of a historical spirit that will make you feel as though you’ve slipped back in time. Simply standing by the stone walls, which have carried the castle’s original appearance down over 600 years to the present day, enables you to feel the weight of their history and magnificent spirit.

Whichever season you visit, you’re sure to find unforgettable views. Why not choose Takeda Castle Ruins as a destination on your next trip?