History
Echizen Ono Castle 越前大野城
Discover a castle in the clouds
Looming over the city of Ono is Echizen Ono Castle. First built in 1580, the castle appears to float in the sky when the clouds hang low.
Quick Facts
Although a reconstruction, the castle's original stone walls and other remnants still remain
The best chance to see the castle float above the clouds is in November between dawn and 9 a.m.
Note that the castle is closed December through March
How to Get There
The castle is a 20-minute walk from Echizen Ono Station.
Echizen Ono Station sits on the Etsumi-Hoku Line that runs between Fukui Station and Kuzuryuko Station. It is just under an hour from Fukui Station.
A rare sight
When the weather cooperates, the Echizen Ono Castle appears to float in the clouds. This beautiful sight has earned the castle its nickname of the Castle in the Sky. Note that the phenomena only occurs a handful of times a year—generally early in the morning from October to April.
When the conditions look right, photographers often gather at viewing points on the surrounding mountains, in the hopes of getting a shot of this enchanting sight.
Learn about the history of this castle
Rebuilt in 1968, an exhibition about the two-tiered castle keep allows visitors to learn the history behind this castle. You can see views of the whole city if you climb to the top level.
* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.
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