Inuyama Castle (Ono City, Fukui Prefecture) Complete Guide | The Charm of the “Castle in the Sky” Photography Spot and Mountain Castle Ruins
Inuyama Castle, located in Ono City, Fukui Prefecture, is a medieval mountain castle built on the summit of Mt. Inuyama, at an altitude of 324.6 meters. This castle, which defended the Ono area from the Nanboku-cho period to the Sengoku period, is now a popular spot for photographers and tourists alike, offering an excellent “Castle in the Sky” photography opportunity, allowing them to capture Echizen Ono Castle through a sea of clouds.
This article will fully convey the charm of Inuyama Castle, from its historical background and the highlights of its mountain castle ruins to the actual climbing routes and tips for photographing the “Castle in the Sky.”
What is Inuyama Castle? | A Strategic Mountain Castle Protecting the Ono Region
Basic Information about Inuyama Castle
Inuyama Castle is a mountain castle located in Inuyama, Ono City, Fukui Prefecture. It was built on a strategically important location overlooking the Ono Basin. The castle ruins feature the main enclosure on the northernmost peak of Inuyama (elevation 324.6 meters), with enclosures extending along the ridges to the northwest, northeast, and south.
Location: Inuyama, Ono City, Fukui Prefecture
Elevation: 324.6 meters
Castle Structure: Mountain Castle
Construction Period: Nanboku-cho period (mid-14th century)
Builder: Shiba Yoshitane
Main Lords: Shiba clan, Asakura clan, Kanamori Nagachika
Year of Abandonment: Tensho era (circa 1573-1592)
Current Status: Castle ruins (observation deck and hiking trails have been developed)
Geographical Importance of Inuyama Castle
Inuyama, where Inuyama Castle was built, is located on the western side of the Ono Basin and was a strategically important location overlooking the Mino Road. The Mino Road was an important transportation route connecting Echizen and Mino, and monitoring and defending this road played an extremely important role in protecting the Ono region.
To the east of the castle lies the Ono Basin, where a sea of clouds can form under favorable weather conditions. This topographical feature is what gives it its current value as a “castle in the sky” photography spot.
History of Inuyama Castle | From the Nanboku-cho Period to the Sengoku Period
Construction of the Castle and the Shiba Clan during the Nanboku-cho Period
While there are no clear records of the exact construction date of Inuyama Castle, it is said to have been built in the mid-14th century during the Nanboku-cho period by Shiba Yoshitane, the third son of Shiba Takatsune, the governor of Echizen Province. Shiba Yoshitane settled in this area and became the ancestor of the Ono Shiba clan.
The Nanboku-cho period was a turbulent era following the collapse of Emperor Go-Daigo’s Kenmu Restoration, when the Southern Court (Yoshino Court) and the Northern Court (Kyoto Court) were in conflict. Echizen Province was also caught up in this conflict, and Inuyama Castle functioned as a base to protect the Ono region.
The Sengoku Period and the Rule of the Asakura Clan
With the arrival of the Sengoku period, Echizen Province came under the rule of the Asakura clan. The Asakura clan was a powerful Sengoku period daimyo who unified Echizen Province and flourished with Ichijōdani as their base. Inuyama Castle was also incorporated under the Asakura clan’s control, and its defensive capabilities were strengthened.
Currently, the remains of Inuyama Castle, such as the ridged vertical moats and large trenches, are believed to have been constructed by the Asakura clan during this period. These defensive structures are valuable relics demonstrating the high level of mountain castle construction technology during the Sengoku period.
Kanamori Nagachika and the Relocation to Ōno Castle
In 1575, after Oda Nobunaga’s suppression of the Echizen Ikko-ikki rebellion, Echizen Province was divided and ruled by the Oda clan’s retainers. Kanamori Nagachika was appointed to Ōno District and made Inuyama Castle his residence.
Kanamori Nagachika is a samurai known as the first lord of the Hida Takayama Domain and is also highly regarded as a master castle builder. Nagachika initially used Inuyama Castle as his residence, but decided to build a new castle in a wider plain.
Between 1576 and 1581, Kanamori Nagachika began construction of Echizen Ono Castle on the summit of Kameyama (249 meters above sea level). With the completion of Ono Castle, Inuyama Castle ceased to serve its purpose and was abandoned. According to legend, the lord of Inuyama Castle himself built Ono Castle to develop the Ono area.
Inuyama Castle Remains | Exploring the Defensive Structures Unique to Mountain Castles
The remains of Inuyama Castle, unique to mountain castles from the medieval to Sengoku periods, are well-preserved. These remains can be observed while walking along the hiking trails.
Main Enclosure (Honmaru) and Group of Enclosures
The main enclosure, located on the northernmost peak at an altitude of 324.6 meters, is the central part of the castle. Currently, an observation deck has been installed, offering a panoramic view of Echizen-Ono Castle.
Multiple baileys (kuruwa) are located along the ridges extending northwest, northeast, and south from the main enclosure. A kuruwa is a flat area within the castle grounds, used as a garrison for soldiers or a storage area for supplies. A distinctive feature of Inuyama Castle is the continuous arrangement of baileys running north-south.
Ridge-shaped Vertical Moats
One of the greatest highlights of Inuyama Castle is the ridge-shaped vertical moats surrounding the main enclosure. Ridge-shaped vertical moats are defensive structures consisting of multiple vertical moats (moats running vertically) dug parallel to a slope, effectively preventing lateral movement of the enemy and making attacks difficult.
The ridge-shaped vertical moats of Inuyama Castle are believed to have been constructed during the Asakura clan era and are valuable remains demonstrating the advanced castle-building techniques of the Sengoku period. You can observe it from a slope slightly off the hiking trail, but be careful of your footing.
Moats and Cut Gees
Several moats can be seen within the castle grounds. A moat is a ditch dug to cut across a ridge, an important defensive structure to prevent enemy intrusion. The large moat separating the main enclosure from the other enclosures is particularly impressive in both depth and width.
A cut cliff is an artificially carved steep slope that serves to make ascent difficult for the enemy. At Inuyama Castle, clear cut cliffs remain around each enclosure, demonstrating the high level of defensive awareness at the time.
Dry Moats and Earthworks
Numerous dry moats (moats that do not hold water) are located around the main enclosure. Dry moats not only hindered enemy approach, but also enhanced defensive capabilities by allowing the excavated soil to be piled up to form earthworks (defensive walls).
While some parts of the earthworks at Inuyama Castle are weathered, the area around the main enclosure remains relatively clear, providing clues to understanding the castle’s structure at the time.
Hiking Routes to Inuyama Castle Ruins | Let’s Climb!
The Inuyama Castle ruins have well-maintained hiking trails, making it relatively easy to climb even for beginners. Here, we introduce the main hiking routes and access methods.
Access Methods
By Car: Approximately 30 minutes from the Fukui Interchange on the Hokuriku Expressway via National Route 158. From the Ono city center, head west on National Route 158 towards the trailhead in the Inuyama area. There is parking space for several cars near the trailhead.
By Public Transportation: Get off at Echizen-Ono Station on the JR Etsumi-Hokubu Line. It’s about a 30-minute walk from the station to the trailhead, or taking a taxi is convenient. The Ono City Community Bus is also available, but the number of services is limited, so please check the timetable in advance.
Eastern Hiking Trail (Most Well-Maintained Route)
The hiking trail from the east is the most well-maintained and recommended for first-time visitors. The journey from the trailhead to the main enclosure takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes.
Detailed Hiking Route:
- Proceed along a gentle uphill path from the trailhead.
- Guide signs are installed along the way, so there’s no need to worry about getting lost.
- The slope becomes slightly steeper around the middle of the mountain, but there are well-maintained stairs.
- You can see a moat just before the main enclosure.
- Arrive at the main enclosure and proceed to the observation deck.
While the hiking trail is relatively well-maintained, it can become slippery after rain, so shoes with good grip, such as trekking shoes, are recommended.
Western and Southern Routes
Routes from the west and south also exist, but they are less well-maintained than the east side and are more suitable for advanced hikers who want to observe the castle ruins while climbing. These routes are ideal for those who want to carefully observe the remains such as moats and trenches.
When using these routes, it is recommended to prepare a map or GPS app in advance and avoid hiking alone.
Clothing and Equipment for Hiking
Clothing:
- Comfortable clothing (long sleeves and long pants recommended)
- Trekking shoes or athletic shoes
- Hat (for sun protection)
- Warm clothing (especially necessary when photographing the sea of clouds in the early morning)
Equipment:
- Drinking water
- Snacks
- Towel
- Flashlight or headlamp (for early morning and evening hikes)
- Insect repellent (spring to autumn)
- Camera and tripod (if photography is the purpose)
- Rain gear (in case of unstable weather)
- Map or GPS app
Inuyama Castle as a “Castle in the Sky” Photography Spot
Inuyama Castle ruins have recently attracted significant attention as an excellent “Castle in the Sky” photography spot, allowing you to photograph Echizen Ono Castle through a sea of clouds.
Conditions for Seeing the Castle in the Sky
To witness the fantastical sight of Echizen Ono Castle floating in a sea of clouds, several weather conditions must be met.
Optimal Time:
October to April, especially early mornings from late October to late November, offer the highest probability of seeing the sight.
Weather Conditions:
- High humidity the previous day, leading to radiative cooling at night.
- A large temperature difference from the previous day.
- Light winds.
- Clear skies.
Time of Day:
Early morning around sunrise (5 AM to 9 AM) is ideal. Since the sea of clouds disappears as the sun rises, early arrival is recommended.
Photography Tips and Techniques
1. Choosing a Shooting Location:
The observation deck at the main enclosure is the most popular shooting spot. Many photographers gather there during the sea of clouds season, so arrive early to secure a good position. Besides the observation deck, there are other points where you can shoot from different angles by moving a short distance.
2. Camera Settings:
- Use of a tripod is strongly recommended (to prevent camera shake)
- Set the ISO sensitivity low (around 100-400) to suppress noise
- Set the aperture to around F8-F11 and adjust so that everything is in focus
- With a tripod, shutter speeds of 1/60 second or slower are possible
- Shooting in RAW format increases the freedom of post-processing
3. Composition Points:
- Place Echizen Ono Castle at the golden ratio point of the frame
- Including trees or castle ruins in the foreground adds depth
- Continuous shooting is effective to capture the flow of the sea of clouds
- Aim for the moment when the sunrise light illuminates the sea of clouds
4. Useful Items to Prepare:
- Spare battery (battery drains quickly in cold weather)
- Lens cleaner (to prevent condensation)
- Warm clothing and hand warmers (it gets very cold in the early morning)
- Hot drink (thermos bottle)
- Headlamp (for hiking in the dark)
Precautions and Etiquette for Photography
Safety Precautions:
- Always carry a headlamp when hiking in the dark early morning hours.
- It’s reassuring to scout the hiking trail beforehand, as visibility is poor.
- Take sufficient precautions against the cold due to low temperatures.
- Avoid hiking alone; ideally, hike in groups.
Etiquette:
- Many people visit during the sea of clouds season, so please be considerate of others.
- Do not spread your tripod too wide or block pathways.
- Refrain from loud conversations (some people enjoy the early morning tranquility).
- Always take your trash with you.
- Do not trespass on private property.
- Do not trample on vegetation.
During the sea of clouds season, nearly 100 people may gather at the observation deck. Let’s all observe proper etiquette so that everyone can enjoy taking photos comfortably.
Relationship between Inuyama Castle and Echizen Ono Castle
Inuyama Castle and Echizen Ono Castle have deep historical and geographical connections.
Construction of Ono Castle by Kanamori Nagachika
As mentioned above, Kanamori Nagachika constructed Echizen Ono Castle on the summit of Mt. Kameyama between 1576 and 1581. It is located approximately 1 kilometer east of Inuyama Castle, at an elevation of 249 meters.
Kanamori Nagachika’s reasons for constructing Ono Castle were its location, which allowed for the formation of a larger castle town, and its function as a political and economic center. While Inuyama Castle was well-defended as a mountain castle, its potential for developing a castle town was limited.
The Current Echizen Ono Castle
The current keep of Echizen Ono Castle is a replica rebuilt in 1968. While detailed records of the keep from Kanamori Nagachika’s time are not available, the reconstructed keep was designed based on the style of that period.
Echizen Ono Castle is a symbol of Ono City, often called the “Little Kyoto of Hokuriku,” and is a popular tourist spot where visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the seasons, from cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves to a sea of clouds in winter.
The Charm of Ono Castle as Seen from Inuyama Castle
The view of Echizen Ono Castle from the ruins of Inuyama Castle is truly spectacular. Even without the sea of clouds, the Ono Basin, the townscape of the castle town, and Ono Castle towering in the center are beautiful, evoking a sense of historical romance.
Ono Castle floating in the sea of clouds is known as the “Castle in the Sky,” and is one of Japan’s leading spots for viewing sea of clouds, alongside Takeda Castle in Hyogo Prefecture and Bitchu Matsuyama Castle in Okayama Prefecture. Many photography enthusiasts agree that the ruins of Inuyama Castle are the best viewpoint to enjoy this spectacular scenery.
Attractions Around Inuyama Castle | Enjoying the Charms of Ono City
When visiting the ruins of Inuyama Castle, be sure to also explore the surrounding tourist spots.
Echizen Ono Castle and its Castle Town
The interior of Echizen Ono Castle’s keep houses a museum where you can see exhibits on the history of Ono and Kanamori Nagachika. From the top floor of the keep, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Ono Basin and even see the ruins of Inuyama Castle.
The castle town retains its grid-like street layout, and you can feel the atmosphere of the Edo period with samurai residences and temple districts. “Shichiken-dori” in particular is the main street lined with historical buildings.
Oshozu Spring
Ono City is known as a “city of famous water,” with springs located throughout the city. Among them, “Oshozu” is a spring selected as one of the Ministry of the Environment’s 100 Famous Waters and is still used as a source of water for local residents. The sight of the crystal-clear water gushing out is a must-see.
Teramachi Street
Located southeast of Ono Castle, Teramachi Street is home to 16 temples. It is said that when Kanamori Nagachika developed the castle town, he gathered temples together for defensive purposes. You can visit these historic temples in a tranquil atmosphere.
Former Tamura Residence
This facility is a restored residence of a high-ranking samurai of the Ono Domain, allowing you to experience the life of a samurai during the Edo period. The garden is also beautiful, and you can enjoy the scenery of each season.
Echizen Ono Yui Station
This is a tourist information hub in Ono City, offering bicycle rentals, tourist information, and local product sales. It’s convenient to stop by before visiting Inuyama Castle or Ono Castle.
Ono City’s Gourmet Food and Souvenirs
After taking photos or hiking at the Inuyama Castle ruins, enjoy Ono City’s gourmet food.
Ono’s Famous Gourmet Food
Soy Sauce Pork Cutlet Rice Bowl: Soy sauce pork cutlet rice bowl is a famous local dish of Ono City. It’s a pork cutlet rice bowl that doesn’t use egg, but instead uses a soy sauce-based sauce, resulting in a light flavor. Many restaurants in the city serve these dishes.
Taro: Ono City is known as a taro producing area, and “Kamisho Taro” is a popular brand. It is characterized by its sticky texture and rich flavor, and is in season from autumn to winter.
Anama Sweet Corn: Although only available in summer, the sweet corn grown in the Anama area has a high sugar content and is sweet enough to be eaten raw.
Recommended Cafes & Lunch Spots
Ito Junwado: A Japanese confectionery shop with over 100 years of history, its specialty “Kenkera” is a classic Ono souvenir. You can also enjoy tea and Japanese sweets in the shop.
Cafe de Kura: A cafe renovated from an old house, where you can enjoy lunch and sweets in a relaxed atmosphere. Menus using local ingredients are popular.
Heisei Onoya: An antenna shop and restaurant that gathers Ono’s specialty products. You can enjoy Ono’s gourmet food, including soy sauce katsudon.
Recommended Souvenirs
- Imo Kintsuba: A Japanese confection made with taro from Kamisho
- Detchi Yokan: A traditional yokan (sweet bean jelly) from Ono
- Echizen Ono Spring Water: Bottled water from one of Japan’s Top 100 Famous Waters
- Local Sake: A variety of sake made with this famous spring water
- Miso: A traditional miso from Ono
Best Season and How to Enjoy Inuyama Castle
Inuyama Castle ruins can be visited throughout the year, but the best season varies depending on your purpose.
Spring (March-May)
Spring is a beautiful season for hiking, with lush greenery. In April, the cherry blossoms around Echizen Ono Castle are in full bloom, allowing you to enjoy the collaboration of cherry blossoms and the castle from Inuyama Castle ruins. The probability of a sea of clouds occurring is lower than in winter, but it can be seen until early April if the conditions are right.
Summer (June-August)
In summer, the hiking trails are covered in lush greenery, allowing you to enjoy forest bathing. However, temperatures are high and there are many insects, so insect repellent and hydration are essential. While the occurrence of a sea of clouds is unlikely, you can enjoy a refreshing view on clear mornings.
Autumn (September-November)
Autumn is the best season to visit Inuyama Castle Ruins. The probability of a sea of clouds occurring is highest from late October to late November, attracting many photographers. The autumn foliage is also beautiful, and the contrast between the colorful mountains and Echizen Ono Castle is magnificent. Temperatures drop, so be sure to take proper precautions against the cold.
Winter (December-February)
Winter is also a season with a high probability of a sea of clouds occurring, but snow can make the hiking trails dangerous. If visiting in winter, it is recommended to check the weather and snow conditions in advance and prepare winter mountain equipment (crampons, trekking poles, etc.). The combination of snow-covered Echizen Ono Castle and the sea of clouds is particularly fantastical.
Practical Advice for Visiting Inuyama Castle Ruins
To Successfully Photograph the Sea of Clouds
- Check the weather forecast carefully: Check the humidity the day before, the temperature at night, and the weather on the day of your visit.
- Aim for an early arrival: Ideally, arrive at the trailhead an hour before sunrise.
- Pre-visit scouting: If possible, check the hiking trail once during the daytime.
- Check social media and weather information: Reports of sea of clouds formation are sometimes shared in real time.
- Don’t give up: Even if the conditions are right, a sea of clouds is not guaranteed to appear. I plan to visit several times.
For a safe and enjoyable experience
- Avoid solo hiking; if possible, hike in groups.
- A hiking plan is not required, but inform family or friends of your destination.
- If the weather changes suddenly, do not push yourself and descend the mountain.
- Cell phone reception is available, but make sure your battery is fully charged.
- Be cautious if bear sightings have been reported (carrying a bear bell is recommended).
Consideration for locals
Inuyama Castle Ruins are maintained and preserved with the cooperation of local residents. When using the hiking trails and observation decks, please be mindful of the following points.
- Do not trespass on private property.
- Park only in designated areas.
- Be mindful of loud noises and car engine sounds in the early morning (residential area nearby).
- Always take your trash with you.
- Do not collect or damage plants.
- Use the restroom beforehand (there are no restrooms on the hiking trail).
Summary | The Multifaceted Charm of Inuyama Castle
Inuyama Castle in Ono City, Fukui Prefecture, is a historic mountain castle that protected the Ono area from the Nanboku-cho period to the Sengoku period. Currently, it attracts many people as a “castle in the sky” spot where you can photograph Echizen Ono Castle through a sea of clouds.
The mountain castle remains, such as the ridged trenches and moats, are valuable cultural assets that convey the castle-building techniques from the medieval to Sengoku periods. For castle enthusiasts, there is the enjoyment of exploring the remains; for photography lovers, there are opportunities to capture spectacular views; and for mountain climbing enthusiasts, it is an easy hiking course—a place that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
When visiting Inuyama Castle Ruins, be sure to understand its historical background, observe the remains of the mountain castle, and, if the conditions are right, enjoy the fantastic view of the castle in the sky. Experiencing the rich nature and history of Ono City, along with the warmth of the local people, will surely create an unforgettable experience.
Inuyama Castle Ruins displays different expressions throughout the seasons. Why not visit Ono City in Fukui Prefecture and experience the charm of this wonderful place for yourself?
