Echizen Ono Castle - Image 1
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Echizen-Ono Castle Ono City

3.9
·2k reviews·Ono, Japan

A reconstructed 16th-century stone castle famous for appearing to float above clouds during foggy mornings.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Autumn to Spring Mornings

For the 'Castle in the Sky' effect

CrowdMedium
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Echizen Ono Castle - Image 1

Echizen-Ono Castle Ono City

Best Time

Late Autumn to Spring Mornings

For the 'Castle in the Sky' effect

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A reconstructed 16th-century stone castle famous for appearing to float above clouds during foggy mornings.

3.9
(2k reviews)

"Witness the magical 'Castle in the Sky' phenomenon and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Catch the Foggy Mornings

Aim for early mornings from late autumn to spring for the best chance of seeing the 'Castle in the Sky'.

👟 Comfortable Shoes for the Climb

Be prepared for over 200 steps to reach the castle. Sturdy footwear is a must!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 'Castle in the Sky' Phenomenon

The 'Castle in the Sky' Phenomenon

Above Ono City

Witness the castle seemingly float above a sea of clouds on foggy mornings. A truly magical sight!

Panoramic Views from the Castle

Panoramic Views from the Castle

Castle Summit

Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Ono City and the surrounding landscape from the castle's vantage point.

Reflections in the Pond

Reflections in the Pond

Castle Grounds

Capture the castle's majestic reflection in the tranquil pond, especially beautiful with koi fish swimming.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for the 'Castle in the Sky'

Echizen-Ono Castle is famed for its 'Castle in the Sky' phenomenon. This magical sight occurs when thick fog blankets the city, making the castle appear to float above the clouds. This usually happens on mornings from late autumn through spring, but requires specific weather conditions. Check forecasts and be prepared for early mornings to catch this breathtaking view. Instagram+1

Prepare for the Climb and Interior Visit

Accessing Echizen-Ono Castle involves a climb, with over 200 steps to reach the summit. Reddit While the exterior is impressive, the interior houses a museum with a modest fee. Reddit Visitors note that while it's a reconstruction, the 360-degree views from the top are stunning. Reddit Wear comfortable shoes for the ascent. Reddit

Best Times

When
Late Autumn to Spring Mornings
Why
For the 'Castle in the Sky' effect
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn Afternoons
Why
Beautiful fall foliage around
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

THIS is your sign to invest in a high quality kitchen knife. my favorite store is Japanese knife imports! I purchased the Yoshimi echizen aogami super santoku! love love love it. #cooking #food #privatechef #personalchef #kitchengadgets #chefknives
@justahumblecook
52.8K likes • 519.5K views

🎯 Catch the Foggy Mornings

Aim for early mornings from late autumn to spring for the best chance of seeing the 'Castle in the Sky'. Instagram+1

👟 Comfortable Shoes for the Climb

Be prepared for over 200 steps to reach the castle. Sturdy footwear is a must! Reddit

📍Echizen Daibutsu, Fukui #japan #visitjapan #fukui #temple #halloffaces
@chopsticksontheloose
31.2K likes • 316.2K views
福井県大野市、雲海に浮かぶ天空の城としても知られる越前大野城の館内が3月21日(火)よりリニューアルオープンします♪ Echizen Ono Castle which is famous for “A castle in the sky” in Ono city, Fukui has re-opened with the new photo spots for inside at 21st Mar, 2023:) #福井県 #大野市 #越前大野城 #フォトスポット #まいおおの #fukui #onocity #echizenonocastle #photospot
ono_kanko
24 likes • 1.1K views

🎫 Interior Museum Fee

There's a small admission fee to explore the castle's interior museum. Reddit

📸 Pond Reflections

Don't miss the stunning castle reflections in the pond, especially with the koi. Reddit

Finally, I got the best shot of Echizen Ono Castle in the Sky 🏯‼︎ What ? Something wrong?🙄 Ono city, Fukui prefecture, Japan ついに天空の城🏯越前大野城のベストショットをとらえました‼︎👍 壮大な音楽とともに 壮大な景色を お楽しみくださいませ✨ え?,,, なにか問題でも?🙄 福井県, 大野市 #hiking #travel #nature #outdoor #camping #castle #castleinthesky #echizenonocastle #echizenono #fukui #onocity #vendingmachine #japan #ハイキング #旅行 #自然 #アウトドア #キャンプ #写真 #天空の城 #天空の城大...
seijihida
68 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Catch the Foggy Mornings

Aim for early mornings from late autumn to spring for the best chance of seeing the 'Castle in the Sky'. Instagram+1

👟 Comfortable Shoes for the Climb

Be prepared for over 200 steps to reach the castle. Sturdy footwear is a must! Reddit

🎫 Interior Museum Fee

There's a small admission fee to explore the castle's interior museum. Reddit

📸 Pond Reflections

Don't miss the stunning castle reflections in the pond, especially with the koi. Reddit

🏙️ Charming Town Setting

The castle is in a charming town that some compare to a 'little Kyoto'. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.9
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Echizen-Ono Castle is praised for its stunning 'Castle in the Sky' phenomenon and the panoramic views from its summit. Visitors appreciate its picturesque setting and the charming town it resides in. However, some find the interior museum to be a bit basic, and the climb can be challenging for some.

"A cool rebuild of a castle

It looks great from the outside and it's pretty center of oono so that's cool as it's ready to get there. The park around it was beautiful in autumn. As usual in Japan, the castle is rebuild. The inside is a museum but it's a bit of a shame that they did not try to redo the rings in the old style, too."

Siemon Slewenski

"It was pretty much snowed in but I had to take a look regardless it was worth it, even through climbing those steps in 10 inch snow wasn’t easy!"

CHRIS CHEN

"Such a unique place in the middle of a young town of Ono. 360° views from the castle are stunning. We were too late for the tour but the castle building itself is quite impressive. It has a pond full of coy fish and the reflection of castle in the pond is beautiful. Recommend if you're nearby."

Raj Arya

What People Like

Castle in the Sky views
Panoramic summit vistas
Picturesque pond reflections

What People Dislike

Basic interior museum
Steep step climb

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Echizen-Ono Castle is located in Ono City, Fukui Prefecture. You can reach Ono City by train, often involving transfers from major hubs like Kyoto or Kanazawa. From Ono Station, the castle is a short taxi ride or a moderate walk, though be prepared for the uphill climb to the castle itself. Reddit

Yes, there are parking facilities available near the base of the castle. This is convenient if you are traveling by car. Reddit

Yes, it's possible to visit Echizen-Ono Castle as a day trip, especially if you are staying in nearby cities like Kanazawa. Plan your transportation carefully to maximize your time. Reddit

Ono City is best explored on foot once you are near the castle, but consider local buses or taxis for longer distances. The town itself is described as charming and reminiscent of a 'little Kyoto'. Reddit

While not directly at the castle, the surrounding region offers scenic train rides. Some visitors have noted vending machines in unique locations, adding a quirky element to exploration. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is a small admission fee to enter the interior of Echizen-Ono Castle, which houses a museum. The exact price can vary, so it's best to check on-site. Reddit

The castle's interior museum typically has specific opening hours, often from morning to late afternoon. It's advisable to check the official website or local tourism information for the most current hours, especially as they can change seasonally. Instagram

Advance booking is generally not required for Echizen-Ono Castle. Tickets can usually be purchased on-site upon arrival. Reddit

The climb to the castle involves over 200 steps, making it challenging for those with significant mobility issues. The interior museum may also have limited accessibility. Reddit

While the interior museum requires a fee, you can often explore the castle grounds and enjoy the exterior views without paying. However, the full experience, including the museum, requires admission. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Views

For the iconic 'Castle in the Sky' photos, early mornings during foggy conditions are unparalleled. Instagram+1 For general scenic shots, sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light, and autumn foliage provides a vibrant backdrop. Reddit

The most popular viewpoints are from below, capturing the castle seemingly floating above the fog, and from the castle's summit for panoramic views. The pond on the grounds also offers beautiful reflection shots. InstagramReddit

This phenomenon occurs when a thick fog settles over Ono City, making Echizen-Ono Castle appear to float above the clouds. It's most common on foggy mornings from late autumn through spring. Instagram+1

The castle's interior has been updated with new photo spots as of March 2023, offering visitors opportunities for unique shots within the museum. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and the 'Castle in the Sky' effect. A telephoto lens can be useful for details within the castle or distant landscapes. Don't forget a tripod for low-light foggy conditions. Instagram

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The interior of Echizen-Ono Castle functions as a museum, showcasing historical artifacts and information about the castle's past. Recent updates have added new photo spots. InstagramReddit

Allow at least 1-2 hours for your visit. This includes the climb up the steps, exploring the interior museum, and taking in the views from the top. Reddit

Restroom facilities are typically available at the castle. Information about cafes or dining options directly at the castle is limited; it's best to check local Ono City offerings. Reddit

The terrain involves a significant uphill climb with over 200 stone steps to reach the castle. The surrounding park area is generally well-maintained. Reddit

Children may enjoy the castle's historical aspect and the climb, but the steep steps require supervision. The museum exhibits might be more engaging for older children. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Echizen-Ono Castle can be an engaging destination for families, offering a sense of adventure with its climb and historical context. The over 200 steps to the top provide a fun challenge for active kids, though supervision is essential. Reddit The castle's museum offers a glimpse into the past, which can spark curiosity in younger minds. Reddit Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities directly at the castle might be limited. The picturesque setting and the 'Castle in the Sky' phenomenon, if witnessed, can be a truly magical experience for children. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Echizen-Ono Castle is a dream location, especially for capturing the 'Castle in the Sky' phenomenon. Instagram+1 Early mornings during foggy seasons are prime time for dramatic shots. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the foggy landscape and the castle's ethereal appearance. Instagram The reflections in the pond offer another excellent photographic opportunity. Reddit Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions and consider a telephoto lens for details. The surrounding town and autumn foliage also provide ample subjects for landscape and cultural photography. Reddit

🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers

The climb to Echizen-Ono Castle, with its 200+ steps, offers a moderate hiking experience for those who enjoy a bit of exertion. Reddit The reward is not just the historical site but also the stunning natural vistas from the summit. Reddit The surrounding area is known for its scenic beauty, particularly during autumn when the foliage is vibrant. Reddit While the castle itself is the main attraction, the journey through the Ono basin provides a pleasant immersion in the Japanese countryside. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of the 'Castle in the Sky'

Echizen-Ono Castle's most captivating feature is its nickname, the 'Castle in the Sky.' This ethereal phenomenon occurs when specific meteorological conditions align, typically on foggy mornings from late autumn through spring. A thick blanket of fog descends upon Ono City, creating a surreal landscape where the castle appears to float serenely above the clouds. Instagram+1 This breathtaking sight has gained international recognition and draws visitors hoping to witness this natural spectacle. Patience and a bit of luck with the weather are key to experiencing this magical moment. Instagram

To maximize your chances, monitor local weather forecasts closely. Early mornings are crucial, as the fog is often densest then. While the phenomenon is unpredictable, the anticipation and the potential reward make the early wake-up call worthwhile. Even without the fog, the castle's setting is picturesque, but the 'Castle in the Sky' experience elevates it to an unforgettable level. Instagram

Exploring the Castle and Its Surroundings

The journey to Echizen-Ono Castle involves a notable ascent, with over 200 steps leading to its summit. Reddit This climb, while requiring some effort, rewards visitors with stunning 360-degree panoramic views of Ono City and the surrounding natural beauty. The castle itself is a reconstruction, but its stone structure is impressive, and the interior houses a museum that offers insights into its history. Reddit Visitors have noted that the museum, while informative, could benefit from a more traditional restoration style. Reddit

Beyond the castle walls, the grounds offer further points of interest. A pond on the premises provides a beautiful reflective surface for the castle, creating a picturesque scene, especially with the resident koi fish. Reddit The town of Ono itself is described as charming, with some likening it to a 'little Kyoto,' suggesting a pleasant atmosphere for exploration. Reddit The park surrounding the castle is particularly beautiful during the autumn season. Reddit

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