Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Echizen Ono Castle is a mountain castle built on top of Shiroyama (approximately 249m above sea level) in Ono City, Fukui Prefecture, and dates back to the Sengoku to Azuchi-Momoyama period. Its construction is said to have been initiated by Kanamori Nagachika and others in the late 16th century, and the town of Ono was formed as a castle town. The castle was abandoned during the Meiji Restoration, but the castle tower was rebuilt in the 20th century. Today, the restored castle tower, stone walls, and the old townscape around the castle remain, making it a popular tourist spot. The unique "castle in the sky" view, where the castle emerges from the thick fog that forms in the early mornings, is particularly famous nationwide, attracting photography enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Highlights
- Castle tower and stone walls: From the castle tower at the top of the mountain, you can get a panoramic view of the castle town and the surrounding mountains. The stone walls and remains of the moat are also worth seeing.
- Foggy Scenery ("Castle in the Sky"): This is famous for the fantastical sight of the castle floating in a sea of clouds caused by the fog that forms in the early mornings from autumn to winter. It is a popular photo spot.
- Stroll around the castle town: At the foot of the castle, old merchant houses and streets remain, allowing you to enjoy the traditional townscape. There are also restaurants dotted around where you can sample local specialties (such as Echizen soba).
- Ono's natural scenery: Surrounded by mountains and rivers, you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons. It is especially beautiful during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
- Document exhibits (local history museums, etc.): You can deepen your understanding by viewing exhibits related to Ono's history and castle (there may be facilities attached, so please check in advance).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train: The nearest station is Echizen-Ono Station on the JR Etsumi-Hoku Line (the castle is quite far from Echizen-Ono Station, and walking there takes time and involves uphill climbs).
- Bus/Taxi: Taking a taxi from Echizen Ono Station is convenient. There may also be local circular buses or sightseeing buses in operation, so it's a good idea to check the timetables in advance.
- By car: Access via the Hokuriku Expressway or national highways. There are parking lots (municipal and tourist) in Ono City, but they may fill up during peak seasons, so we recommend arriving early.
– If you are planning to visit during the tourist season or during the early morning fog, it will be easier if you arrange local transportation (rental car or taxi) in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
– Castle tour only: 30-60 minutes (including a tour inside the castle tower)
– Including a stroll around the castle town and meals: 1.5 to 3 hours
- If you are shooting a foggy landscape in the early morning: You may need to arrive and wait before sunrise, so allow 2 to 4 hours.
Nearby spots
– Ono City Center (Old houses and shopping street): A strolling area that retains the atmosphere of a castle town.
– Ono Local History Museum/History Museum (name subject to change): Exhibits local history and folk tools.
- Nearby natural parks and observation points: There are places suitable for taking pictures of the castle from outside and the panoramic view from the observation deck.
- Local gourmet restaurants: There are many restaurants serving Echizen soba and seasonal local dishes. Check with the tourist information center for recommendations.
- (By car) You can also access other famous places in Fukui Prefecture, such as the Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins and Eiheiji Temple.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- It gets crowded during the foggy season and early mornings: The foggy season from autumn to winter is particularly busy with visitors coming to take photos. Parking lots and observation spots can get crowded, so we recommend arriving early and using public transportation or taxis.
- Footing and clothing: There are many slopes and stone steps on the way to the castle ruins on the mountain, and in some places the footing is unstable. Please bring comfortable shoes and warm/rain gear. In winter, be careful of slipping due to snow and ice.
- Opening hours and admission fees: The opening hours of the castle tower and the fees for paid facilities may change depending on the season and year. Please check with official information or the tourist association before visiting.
- Photography etiquette: If you are using a tripod for early morning photography, choose a location that will not obstruct the passage of other visitors and be mindful not to leave any trash or footprints. The use of drones is prohibited or restricted in many places, so be sure to check in advance.
- Consideration for local life: The castle town is also a residential area for local residents. Please refrain from parking on the street, making loud noises, and trespassing on private property without permission.
- Check weather information: Even if you are aiming for fog, it may not be visible depending on the weather conditions, so checking the weather forecast and local tourist information just beforehand will help you avoid wasting your time.
Supplementary Information (Tourist Planning Tips)
– If you are aiming to capture the foggy “Castle in the Sky,” check the weather chart and early morning radiation cooling conditions (clear, cool nights). If you are aiming to take photos, it is safest to arrive at the location before sunrise.
– We recommend a half-day plan that combines the castle with a stroll around the town, enjoying local soba noodles and Japanese sweets. There are some sections where the number of trains is limited, so be sure to check the timetable and service status in advance.
If necessary, I will look up the latest information and add specific access times around Echizen Ono Castle (walking and bus times from the nearest station), parking information, contact information for the tourist information center, etc. Please let me know if there is anything you would like to know.
