Takeda Castle Complete Guide | A Thorough Explanation of the History, Sea of Clouds, Access, and Viewing Information of the Castle in the Sky
What is Takeda Castle? | The Castle in the Sky Known as Japan’s Machu Picchu
Takeda Castle is a mountain castle built on the summit of Mt. Kojō, at an altitude of 353.7 meters, located in Takeda, Wadayama-cho, Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture. Its layout resembles a crouching tiger, hence its other name, “Torafusu-jō” (Tiger’s Crouching Castle), and it is designated a National Historic Site.
Located high on the mountaintop, it is known nationwide as the “Castle in the Sky” or “Japan’s Machu Picchu” due to the fantastical sight of it being enveloped in a sea of clouds from the Maruyama River during autumn and winter. It boasts one of the largest surviving stone wall remains in Japan and has been selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles.
In recent years, it has been used as a filming location for movies and dramas, and has become a representative tourist spot in the Tajima region, attracting hundreds of thousands of tourists annually from both Japan and abroad.
History of Takeda Castle | From the Muromachi Period to the Early Edo Period
The Castle’s Construction and the Era of the Otagaki Clan
Takeda Castle’s origins are said to date back to the Kakitsu era (around 1441-1443), when Yamana Sozen, the governor of Tajima Province, ordered his subordinate, the Otagaki clan, to build it. Initially, it was a medieval mountain castle primarily composed of earthworks, functioning as a base for the Yamana clan’s rule over Tajima.
The Otagaki clan served as castle lords for seven generations, starting with the first lord, Mitsukage (some sources say Masatomo). As important retainers of the Yamana clan, the Otagaki clan played a crucial role within Tajima Province, governing the southern Tajima region from Takeda Castle.
Oda Nobunaga’s Invasion of Tajima and the Change of Castle Lords
In 1569 (Eiroku 12), Hashiba Hideyoshi (later Toyotomi Hideyoshi), acting on orders from Oda Nobunaga, invaded Tajima. The castle’s lord at the time, Otagaki Terunobu, surrendered to the Oda clan, and Takeda Castle came under Oda control.
Later, in 1577 (Tensho 5), Hideyoshi’s conquest of Tajima Province was completed, and Takeda Castle fell into the hands of the Oda retainers. Around 1580 (Tensho 8), it came under the command of Hashiba Hidenaga (Hideyoshi’s younger brother) and was positioned as an important base for the administration of Tajima.
Major Renovation to a Stone-Walled Castle by Akamatsu Hirohide
The magnificent stone wall remains visible today were built in 1585 (Tensho 13) by Akamatsu Hirohide, who became the new lord of the castle. Akamatsu Hirohide enjoyed the deep trust of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and was a daimyo with a domain of 13,000 koku in Tajima Province.
Akamatsu Hirohide undertook a major renovation, transforming the castle, which had been primarily earthen-walled during the Otagaki clan’s era, into a modern mountain castle with a total stone wall construction using the latest technology of the Azuchi-Momoyama period. The castle was built using a stone-stacking technique called “Nozura-zumi,” which skillfully combines natural stones, and it retains its original grandeur even after more than 400 years.
Takeda Castle was located at a strategic point on the Maruyama River, leading to Ikuno, where the silver mine was located, and functioned as a military and economic base controlling southern Tajima.
Abandonment and Preservation in the Modern Era
After the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600 (Keicho 5), Akamatsu Hirohide (or Akamatsu Hirohide), the last lord of the castle, sided with the Western Army and was subsequently dispossessed of his domain, leading to the abandonment of Takeda Castle. Although it was only in use for about 15 years, the stone walls built during this short period remain today as valuable historical remains.
After its abandonment, the castle was left neglected for a long time, but in 1943 (Showa 18), it was designated a National Historic Site, and preservation efforts began. Since the Heisei era, Asago City has been carrying out maintenance projects, and in 2006 (Heisei 18), it was selected as one of “Japan’s Top 100 Castles.”
List of Successive Lords of Takeda Castle
The successive lords of Takeda Castle are as follows:
Otagaki Clan Era (c. 1441–1577)
- 1st Lord: Otagaki Mitsukage (Masatomo)
- 2nd–6th Lords: Details Unknown
- 7th Lord: Otagaki Terunobu (Surrendered to the Oda side in 1569)
Oda/Toyotomi Regime Era (1577–1600)
- Under Hashiba Hidenaga (c. 1580)
- Kuwayama Shigeharu (c. 1585)
- Akamatsu Hirohide (1585–1600, the last lord)
Akamatsu Hirohide was ordered to commit seppuku (ritual suicide) for arson during the siege of Tottori Castle during the chaotic period after the Battle of Sekigahara, and Takeda Castle was abandoned.
Castle Structure | Characteristics of the Completely Existing Stone Wall Remains
Layout and Arrangement
Takeda Castle is a mountain castle of the Teikaku-shiki (tiered) type, with stone walls and baileys arranged over an area of approximately 400 meters north-south and 100 meters east-west, centered on the summit of Kojōyama Mountain (elevation 353.7 meters).
The central Honmaru (main bailey) is located at the highest point of the mountain, and surrounding it are:
-Ninomaru (north side)
- Sannomaru (west side)
- Minami Ninomaru (south side)
- Higashimaru (east side)
- Kita Senjō (large northern bailey)
- Minami Senjō (large southern bailey)
These baileys are arranged in this layout, which resembles a crouching tiger, hence its alternative name, “Torafushijō” (Tiger Crouching Castle).
Characteristics and Techniques of the Stone Walls
The stone walls of Takeda Castle are constructed using a technique called “Nozurazumi” (rough stone masonry). Nozurazumi is a method of stacking natural stones with minimal processing, and stability is enhanced by filling the gaps between the stones.
The height of the stone walls varies depending on the location, but the highest points reach approximately 10 meters. The total length is approximately 1,000 meters, an exceptional scale for a mountain castle.
The stone walls around the main enclosure are particularly well-preserved, retaining almost their original appearance from the time of construction. The calculations of the curvature and angles of the stone walls demonstrate the advanced castle-building techniques of the Azuchi-Momoyama period, making them valuable historical remains in the history of castle architecture.
Current Status of the Remains
While no structures such as a keep remain at Takeda Castle, the stone walls and baileys are well-preserved. Archaeological excavations have confirmed the existence of a keep base in the main enclosure, but it is unknown whether a keep was actually built there.
Main remains currently open to visitors:
- Main keep stone walls and castle tower base
- Stone walls of each enclosure
- Castle gate ruins
-Stone steps
- Well ruins
These remains are protected as a national historical site and are continuously preserved and maintained by Asago City.
Sea of Clouds | Enjoying the spectacular view of the castle in the sky
Mechanism of Sea of Clouds Formation
The main reason Takeda Castle became known as the “Castle in the Sky” is the fantastical sight of it floating in a sea of clouds. The Asago Basin, through which the Maruyama River flows, has topographical conditions that make it easy for a sea of clouds (morning mist) to form.
Conditions for Sea of Clouds Formation:
- Large temperature difference between daytime and nighttime the previous day
- High humidity and light wind
- Clear or partially cloudy weather
When these conditions are met, water vapor rising from the Maruyama River lingers in the basin, forming a dense fog in the morning and creating a sea of clouds.
Best Season and Time for Sea of Clouds
Optimal Season
The best time to see a sea of clouds is autumn, from September to November, followed by winter, from December to February. The probability of occurrence is particularly high from late September to late November, attracting many tourists.
While sea of clouds can sometimes be seen in spring (March to May), the frequency is lower compared to autumn and winter.
Viewing Time
The best time to see the sea of clouds is around sunrise, from 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM. During this time, the sea of clouds is at its most beautiful, offering a fantastical sight as sunlight illuminates it.
After 8:00 AM, the rising temperature causes the sea of clouds to begin dissipating, so early morning visits are recommended.
Sea of Clouds Viewing Spots
There are mainly two spots to enjoy the sea of clouds at Takeda Castle.
1. View from Takeda Castle Ruins
From within the castle ruins, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the sea of clouds. The contrast between the stone walls and the sea of clouds is beautiful, offering the experience of the castle ruins themselves floating in the clouds.
2. View from Ritsunkyo Gorge
Ritsunkyo Gorge, located across from Takeda Castle, is an excellent photo spot where you can view the Takeda Castle ruins through the sea of clouds. Many of the iconic “castle in the sky” photos were taken from this location. Ritsunkyo Gorge has three deck observations, each offering a different view of Takeda Castle.
Opening Hours and Admission Fees | Information to Check Before Visiting
Entry Hours (by Season)
Entry hours for Takeda Castle ruins vary by season.
Spring Season (March 1st – May 31st)
- 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last entry 5:30 PM)
Summer Season (June 1st – August 31st)
- 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last entry 5:30 PM)
Sea of Clouds Season (September 1st – November 30th)
- 4:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM)
- *Early morning opening for sea of clouds viewing*
Winter Season (December 1st – January 3rd)
- 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Last entry 1:00 PM)
January 4th – End of February
- Closed (Entry not permitted)
Admission Fee
- Adults (High school students and older): 500 yen
- Junior high school students and younger: Free
Annual passes (Asago city residents only) are also available.
Closed Days
- January 4th to the end of February (Winter Closure)
- During inclement weather (typhoons, heavy snow, etc.)
Before visiting, we recommend checking the latest information on the Asago City official website or “Information Center Tenku no Shiro” (Tel: 079-674-2120).
How to Climb and Required Time
Climbing to Takeda Castle Ruins is primarily done on foot. The main routes to the castle are:
1. Yamashiro-no-Sato Route (Most Common)
- Approximately 40 minutes on foot from the “Yamashiro-no-Sato” mid-mountain parking lot
- Relatively gentle slope
2. Station-Back Hiking Trail Route
- Approximately 40 minutes on foot from behind JR Takeda Station
- A somewhat steep hiking trail
3. Omote-Yone Shrine Hiking Trail Route
- Approximately 40 minutes on foot from Omote-Yone Shrine
- A route that follows a historic approach path
During the sea of clouds season, on weekends and holidays, a fare-based “Tenku Bus” operates from Yamashiro-no-Sato to the vicinity of the castle ruins. Using the bus can reduce walking time to approximately 20 minutes.
Access | Directions by Train and Car
Access by Train
Nearest Station: JR Takeda Station (Bantan Line)
- From Osaka: JR Osaka Station → JR Fukuchiyama Line → JR Wadayama Station → JR Bantan Line → JR Takeda Station (approx. 2 hours 30 minutes)
- From Kobe: JR Kobe Station → JR Bantan Line → JR Teramae Station → JR Bantan Line → JR Takeda Station (approx. 2 hours)
- From Himeji: JR Himeji Station → JR Bantan Line → JR Teramae Station → JR Bantan Line → JR Takeda Station (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes)
It takes approximately 40 minutes to walk from JR Takeda Station to the Takeda Castle Ruins. There is a tourist information center in front of the station where you can obtain maps and brochures.
Access by Car
Using the Expressway
- Approximately 10 minutes from the Wadayama IC on the Bantan Expressway
- Approximately 10 minutes from the Wadayama IC on the Kita-Kinki Toyooka Expressway
Parking
There are several parking lots around Takeda Castle Ruins:
- Yamashiro-no-Sato Parking Lot (Mid-slope)
-Standard car: 300 yen/day
- Approximately 40 minutes on foot to the castle ruins
-The most frequently used parking lot
- Takeda Machinaka Tourist Parking Lot (Castle town)
-Standard car: Free
- Approximately 50 minutes on foot to the castle ruins
- Other Private Parking Lots
- Fee: Around 500 yen/day
During the sea of clouds season on weekends, it gets crowded from early morning, so arriving before 5:00 AM is recommended.
Using a Taxi
Taxis are also available from JR Takeda Station or Wadayama Station. It takes about 5 minutes from Takeda Station to Yamashiro-no-Sato, and the fare is approximately 1,000 yen. ## Tourist Attractions Around Takeda Castle
Information Center: Castle in the Sky
This is a tourist information facility located at the foot of the Takeda Castle ruins. It features exhibits, dioramas, and video materials to teach you about the history of Takeda Castle. It also provides tourist information, distributes brochures, and sells souvenirs, making it ideal for gathering information before your visit.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed: Open daily
- TEL: 079-674-2120
Ritsunkyo Gorge
A famous spot for cherry blossoms and sea of clouds located across from Takeda Castle. Approximately 300 cherry trees bloom in spring, and in autumn and winter, it’s a popular spot for its spectacular view of Takeda Castle floating above the sea of clouds. The first observation deck is about a 40-minute walk from the parking lot.
Ikuno Silver Mine
Located about 20 minutes by car from Takeda Castle, this is a historic silver mine that opened in 807. It offers tunnel tours and a museum where you can learn about the mining culture of Tajima. Takeda Castle and Ikuno Silver Mine were connected by the Maruyama River and had a close economic relationship.
Takeda Castle Town
The area around JR Takeda Station retains the atmosphere of a castle town. You can stroll along streets lined with old townhouses and visit shops selling local specialties.
Works Using Takeda Castle as a Location
Due to its fantastical scenery, the Takeda Castle ruins have been used as a filming location for many films and television productions.
Films
- “Heaven and Earth” (1990)
- “To You” (2012)
Television Dramas
- NHK Taiga Drama “Gunshi Kanbei” (2014)
- Said to be one of the models for “Castle in the Sky” (Laputa) (No official confirmation)
Commercials/Promotional Videos
- Filming location for numerous commercials for automobile and beverage manufacturers
- Filming location for artists’ music videos
These works increased Takeda Castle’s national recognition and sparked the “Castle in the Sky” boom.
Anecdotes and Episodes of Takeda Castle
The Tragedy of Akamatsu Hirohide
The last lord of the castle, Akamatsu Hirohide (Hirohide), was ordered to commit seppuku (ritual suicide) by Tokugawa Ieyasu after the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600. He was reprimanded for setting fire to the castle town during the siege of Tottori Castle, which spread too widely. This punishment is believed to have had political motives, and Takeda Castle was abandoned after Hirohide’s death.
The Mystery of the Stone Walls
There are various theories as to why the stone walls of Takeda Castle were built on such a large scale for a period of only about 15 years of use. Various theories have been proposed, including its strategic importance in controlling the transportation route to the Ikuno Silver Mine, its symbolism of the Toyotomi regime’s prestige, and its role as a rear base in preparation for the invasion of Korea.
The Beginning of the “Castle in the Sky” Boom
In the late 2000s, photographs of Takeda Castle floating in a sea of clouds became a sensation on the internet, and it suddenly became famous as the “Castle in the Sky” and “Japan’s Machu Picchu.” Around 2012, the number of tourists surged, reaching over 500,000 annually at its peak.
While this boom contributed to regional revitalization, balancing the preservation of historical sites with tourism became a challenge. Currently, entry restrictions and protective measures are in place.
Points to Note and Manners When Visiting Takeda Castle
Clothing and Items to Bring
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes such as sneakers or hiking boots are essential.
- Clothing: Comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement, and appropriate warmth/heat protection for the season.
- Items to Bring: Drinking water, towel, rain gear, flashlight (for early morning visits)
Rules for Protecting the Historical Site
- Do not climb or touch the stone walls.
- Do not enter areas other than the designated viewing paths.
- Always take your trash with you.
-Drone photography is prohibited.
-Pets are not allowed.
Safety Precautions
- The ground can be slippery and dangerous in rainy or windy weather.
- A flashlight is essential for early morning visits as it is dark.
- Avoid climbing the castle if you are feeling unwell.
- Take sufficient precautions against heatstroke in summer and warmth in winter.
Summary | To Fully Enjoy the Charms of Takeda Castle
Takeda Castle is a precious mountain castle with stone walls that are over 400 years old and still intact. It’s a popular tourist destination both domestically and internationally, known as the “Castle in the Sky” floating above a sea of clouds. It’s a historical site with multifaceted appeal, encompassing its history from the Muromachi to the Azuchi-Momoyama periods, the magnificent stone wall construction by Akamatsu Hirohide, and the ongoing preservation and utilization efforts.
While early morning visits between September and November are recommended to enjoy the spectacular sea of clouds, the beauty of the stone walls and the views can be appreciated at any time from spring to autumn. Checking opening hours and admission fees in advance, and visiting with appropriate clothing and equipment, will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience of Takeda Castle.
Thanks to the continuous preservation and maintenance efforts by Asago City, this valuable cultural asset will be passed on to future generations. By each visitor observing proper etiquette and respecting the remains, the “Castle in the Sky,” Takeda Castle, can continue to be passed down to future generations.
