Complete Guide to Echizen Ono Castle | History of the Castle in the Sky, How to View the Sea of Clouds, and Access Information [Ono City, Fukui Prefecture]
Echizen Ono Castle, towering over the heart of Ono City, Fukui Prefecture, is a historic castle built during the time of Oda Nobunaga. In recent years, it has attracted nationwide attention as the “Castle in the Sky,” floating above a sea of clouds. From the castle tower, built on the summit of Mt. Kameyama at an altitude of 249 meters, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Ono Basin, making it a representative tourist spot in Fukui Prefecture where you can enjoy both the atmosphere of the castle town and the beauty of nature.
This article comprehensively introduces information you should know before visiting, including the detailed history of Echizen Ono Castle, its highlights, the conditions for the formation of the sea of clouds and photo spots, access methods, and surrounding tourist information.
History of Echizen Ono Castle
Construction by Kanamori Nagachika
The history of Echizen Ono Castle dates back to 1575 (Tensho 3). For their service in suppressing the Echizen Ikko-ikki rebellion, Oda Nobunaga granted Kanamori Nagachika and Hara Masashige the Ono district of Echizen Province. Kanamori Nagachika received two-thirds of the district, while Hara Masashige received one-third. Nagachika began construction of a castle at Kameyama the following year, in 1576.
Kanamori Nagachika is known as one of Oda Nobunaga’s elite retainers, the “Akahoro-shu.” The Akahoro-shu were a select group of warriors particularly trusted by Nobunaga, who fought on the battlefield wearing red horo (a type of cloak). Nagachika was entrusted with governing Ono district from this prestigious position.
The castle construction took four years and was completed in 1580. At the time, Ono Castle featured a large, two-story, three-tiered main keep with a watchtower, a smaller two-story keep, and a Tengu Tower in the main enclosure. At the foot of the mountain were the second and third baileys, and the castle’s strong structure cleverly utilized double moats and a river for defense.
Construction of the Castle Town
Kanamori Nagachika constructed a planned castle town at the eastern foot of Mount Kameyama, simultaneously with the construction of the castle. This town was laid out in a grid pattern with six east-west and six north-south streets, with a temple district located at the easternmost edge for defensive purposes. This urban plan forms the basis of the current Ono city center, and the rectangular town layout remains to this day.
Changes in Successive Castle Lords
Echizen Ono Castle was ruled by 19 different lords from its construction until the Meiji Restoration. After Kanamori Nagachika, during the Azuchi-Momoyama period, the castle was ruled by figures such as Aoki Kazunori, a relative of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Oda Hidekatsu, a grandson of Oda Nobunaga.
In the Edo period, it functioned as the administrative center of the Ono Domain, and ultimately the Doi clan became the castle lords until the Meiji Restoration. With the abolition of the feudal domains and the establishment of prefectures in the Meiji era, the castle was sold off, and many of the buildings were demolished, but the stone walls remain as they were.
Reconstruction of the Current Castle Tower
The current castle tower was rebuilt in 1968 (Showa 43), constructed based on an estimate of its original form thanks to donations from former samurai families. Although it is a reinforced concrete reconstruction, it faithfully reproduces the original appearance and is a beloved symbol of Ono City. The interior of the castle tower is used as a museum, displaying artifacts of successive castle lords, including the Doi clan.
A Castle Floating in a Sea of Clouds
Attention as a Castle in the Sky
Echizen Ono Castle has only recently become nationally known as a “castle in the sky.” From late autumn to spring, when specific weather conditions align, the entire Ono Basin is enveloped in a sea of clouds, creating a fantastical scene where only Echizen Ono Castle, perched on the summit of Mt. Kameyama, appears to float above the clouds.
This mystical landscape, along with Takeda Castle in Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture, and Bitchu Matsuyama Castle in Takahashi City, Okayama Prefecture, is attracting attention as one of Japan’s representative “castles in the sky.” In recent years, beautiful photos have spread on social media, attracting many tourists and photography enthusiasts.
Conditions for the Occurrence of a Sea of Clouds
A sea of clouds can be seen at Echizen Ono Castle when the following weather conditions are met:
Occurrence Period: From October to April, with November being the most likely time.
Weather Conditions:
- High humidity the previous day
- Large temperature difference between daytime the previous day and early morning of the current day (radiative cooling)
- Light wind
- Clear skies
Time of Day: The most beautiful time to see the sea of clouds is from dawn until around 9 AM. The sight of the sea of clouds gradually enveloping the town as the sun rises, and then slowly disappearing as the sun rises, is truly miraculous.
Sea of Clouds Photography Spots
There are mainly three viewpoints where you can photograph the “Castle in the Sky,” Echizen Ono Castle:
Inuyama Castle Ruins: The most popular photography spot, offering a frontal view of Echizen Ono Castle. Early morning arrival is recommended due to limited parking space.
Tenguyama: A spot offering a panoramic view from a slightly elevated position. While it requires a 30-minute hike along a mountain trail, it provides a unique composition.
Inuyama Castle Ruins: This is the site of Inuyama Castle, the first castle of Kanamori Nagachika. From here, you can also photograph Echizen Ono Castle floating in a sea of clouds.
Since both spots require early morning visits, warm clothing and appropriate safety equipment are necessary. Also, as the sea of clouds is a natural phenomenon, it is not guaranteed to be visible. The Ono City Tourism Association website provides a sea of clouds forecast, so it is recommended to check it before visiting.
Highlights of Echizen Ono Castle
Nozura-zumi Stone Walls
One of the biggest highlights of Echizen Ono Castle is its stone walls built using the Nozura-zumi method. Nozura-zumi is a technique of stacking natural stones with little to no processing, and was widely used from the Sengoku period to the Azuchi-Momoyama period.
The stone walls of Echizen Ono Castle remain as they were when they were built during the Tensho era, and due to their historical value, they are designated as a Fukui Prefecture Cultural Property. The stone walls, constructed with uneven stones fitted together in exquisite balance, remain remarkably sturdy even after more than 400 years, a testament to the high level of stonemasonry skill of the time.
Up close, you can see that stones of various sizes are stacked without gaps, and the structure is designed with drainage in mind. Carefully observing these historic stone walls while walking along the path to the castle is one of the pleasures of visiting Echizen Ono Castle.
View from the Keep
From the keep, built on the summit of Mt. Kameyama at an altitude of 249 meters, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the Ono Basin. You can see the grid-like layout of the castle town, the surrounding mountains, and even the Hakusan mountain range in the distance.
Especially the fresh greenery of spring, the deep green of summer, the autumn foliage, and the snowy landscapes of winter—you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of each season. The view from the top floor of the keep is magnificent, allowing you to truly appreciate why Kanamori Nagachika chose this location.
Exhibits Inside the Castle Tower
The castle tower has been renovated into a museum, with historical materials displayed on each of the three floors.
1st Floor: Exhibits cover the history of Echizen Ono Castle, the circumstances of its construction, and materials related to Kanamori Nagachika.
2nd Floor: Exhibits include relics, armor, and swords of successive castle lords, allowing visitors to learn about the history of the Ono Domain. The relics of the Doi clan, in particular, include many valuable items.
3rd Floor: This is an observation floor, offering views of the Ono Basin from windows on all four sides.
The exhibits are regularly changed, so there are new discoveries to be made with each visit.
Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles
In 2017, Echizen Ono Castle was selected as the 138th of the “Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles.” This selection was made by the Japan Castle Association, and was based on evaluations of its historical value, state of preservation, and symbolic significance to the region.
Inside the castle, you can get a stamp for the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles, making it a must-visit spot for castle enthusiasts. Castle stamps are also sold, and many visitors purchase them as souvenirs.
Basic Information
Opening Hours and Closing Days
Normal Opening Period: April to November
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM)
Winter Closure: The castle is normally closed from December to March, but special openings are held to coincide with the opening of the Shichiken Morning Market, which heralds the arrival of spring. Special opening dates can be found on the Ono City official website.
Admission Fees
- Adults: 300 yen
- Junior High School Students and Younger: Free
- Group (30 or more people): 250 yen (Adults only)
- Annual Pass: 1,000 yen (Valid for one year from the date of issue)
The annual pass is a good deal for those who visit four or more times a year. Recommended for those who want to enjoy the scenery of the four seasons.
Access Information
Access by Train/Bus:
- Approximately 30 minutes on foot from JR Echizen-Ono Station
- Approximately 5 minutes by taxi from JR Echizen-Ono Station
- Approximately 1 hour by Keifuku Bus Ono Line from Fukui Station, get off at “Ono Rokken” bus stop, then approximately 20 minutes on foot
Access by Car:
- Approximately 30 minutes from Fukui IC on the Hokuriku Expressway via National Route 158
- Approximately 40 minutes from Shiratori IC on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway via National Route 158
Parking:
- Free parking available around the castle ruins (approximately 50 cars)
- Parking at the Yui Station at the foot of the mountain is also available
To reach the castle keep, it’s about a 20-minute walk up the path from the foot of the mountain. Since there are many stone steps, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
Contact Information
- Ono City Tourism and Exchange Division
- Phone Number: 0779-66-1111
- For the latest information on Echizen Ono Castle and special opening dates, please check the Ono City official website or the Ono City Tourism Association website.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Tourist Attractions in Ono City
Shichiken Morning Market: A morning market with over 400 years of history, held from the Vernal Equinox to New Year’s Eve. Fresh local vegetables and specialty products are available, and you can enjoy interacting with the locals.
Former Uchiyama Samurai Residence: A facility that recreates a samurai residence from the Edo period, offering a glimpse into the life of samurai at that time. It is within walking distance of Echizen Ono Castle.
Teramachi Street: A street where temples, strategically placed by Kanamori Nagachika as a defensive stronghold, still remain. Enjoy a stroll while visiting historical temples.
Oshozu: This spring water is selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Waters by the Ministry of the Environment, and Ono City is known as a “Water Village.”
Attractions in the Surrounding Area
Heisenji Hakusan Shrine: A beautiful moss-covered shrine located in Katsuyama City, about a 20-minute drive from Ono City. The moss covering the entire grounds is breathtaking, and the view after rain is especially spectacular.
Dinosaur Museum: One of the world’s three major dinosaur museums, located in Katsuyama City, and a popular spot for families.
Kuzuryu Lake: A beautiful artificial lake located in the eastern part of Ono City, also known as a famous spot for autumn foliage.
Tips for Enjoying Echizen Ono Castle
Recommended Season for Visiting
Spring (April-May): During cherry blossom season, the area around the castle ruins is adorned with cherry blossoms, creating a beautiful contrast between the castle tower and the blossoms. The Shichiken Morning Market also begins, bringing the entire town to life.
Summer (June-August): Enjoy lush green scenery. However, the path to the castle has little shade, so be sure to take precautions against the heat.
Autumn (September-November): The autumn foliage is beautiful, and the chances of seeing a sea of clouds increase. November, in particular, is the best season to see the castle in the sky.
Winter (December-March): The castle is usually closed, but the snow-covered castle ruins offer a unique and charming view. Special opening days allow you to enjoy Echizen Ono Castle in winter.
Estimated Time Required
- Castle Tower Visit Only: Approximately 1 hour
- Including a Stroll Around the Castle Ruins: Approximately 1.5-2 hours
- Including a Stroll Through the Castle Town: Approximately 3-4 hours
- Sea of Clouds Photography: Early Morning to Late Morning (3-4 hours)
Clothing and Items to Bring
The path to the castle consists of many stone steps, so comfortable walking shoes such as sneakers are essential. If you plan to photograph the sea of clouds, bring warm clothing to prepare for the early morning chill. Also, we recommend preparing drinks, a hat, and sunscreen according to the season.
Summary
Echizen Ono Castle is a representative tourist spot in Fukui Prefecture where you can enjoy both the history that has continued since the time of Oda Nobunaga and the fantastical scenery known as the “castle in the sky.” The rough-hewn stone walls built by Kanamori Nagachika, the systematically developed castle town, and the mystical appearance floating in a sea of clouds will deeply impress visitors.
Echizen Ono Castle has been selected as one of the Continued Top 100 Castles of Japan and is highly regarded for its historical value. Please visit and experience the beauty of the four seasons, the weight of history, and the miraculous scenery woven by nature. The rich nature and history of Ono City, and encounters with warm people will surely become unforgettable memories.
