From the Imperial Castle in Tokyo to the Himeji Castle in Hyogo, it should come as no surprise to anyone that Japan plays host to many castles. One castle in particular, dubbed Japan’s Machu Picchu, has garnered the interest of the international community for it’s resemblance to the floating castle in Studio Ghibli’s Castle in the Sky.
Situated in the Wadayamacho district of Asago, Hyogo Prefecture, atop a 353-metre mountain, the ruins of Takeda Castle appear to float on the clouds. Best seen between sunrise and 8am and during Autumn, generally September to November, when the drop in temperature creates a wonderful sea of early morning mist.
After the mist clears, the mountains provide a picturesque backdrop with the abundance of foliage.
Up close, the ruins themselves are a sight to behold.
The castle transforms with shifts in the season.
Spring provides photographers with the perfect spot to watch the cherry blossom flowers bloom.
Autumn is also popular as the changing leaves provides photographers with amazing sights.
The coat of white snow in winter, offers yet another impressive sight.
If you want to visit the site, you are advised to take the train to the JR Takeda Station, and take a 40-minute hike to the mountain. An entry fee of 300yen applies. However, if you are unwilling to part with your cash, an hour away from Takeda Station, Ritsuunkyo is a popular viewing site for the castle.
The view alone are worth a day’s trip if you are travelling through Kobe or Osaka. The castle provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of the modern world, and at the same time takes your breath away with it’s sights.
Images from: Asago City Office
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