Echizen Ono Castle, beautifully known as the "Castle in the Sky," is a historic castle built by Kanamori Nagachika, a retainer of Oda Nobunaga. Its appearance floating above a sea of clouds is breathtaking.
Echizen Ono Castle stands in Ono City, Fukui Prefecture. It was built by Kanamori Nagachika, a vassal of Oda Nobunaga. Completed in 1576, the original castle consisted of a two-story, three-tiered main keep, a two-story, two-tiered small keep, a second bailey, a third bailey, and was surrounded by inner and outer moats. Kanamori Nagachika was granted 30,000 koku of rice in Echizen Ono by Oda Nobunaga and constructed the castle, developing the castle town. Echizen Ono Castle played a crucial role in Nobunaga's unification of Japan. Subsequently, many lords, including the Matsudaira and Maeda clans, held the castle. After the Meiji Restoration, it was abandoned, with only the keep, rebuilt in 1968, remaining today. Echizen Ono Castle is now renowned as the "Castle in the Sky." Under the right weather conditions, from late autumn to spring, the entire Ono basin is enveloped in a sea of clouds, creating an ethereal scene where Echizen Ono Castle appears to float. This spectacular view captivates many tourists and is especially popular among photography enthusiasts. Echizen Ono Castle is a beautiful castle where history and nature harmoniously blend. It's a tourist spot where you can learn about the castle's history and culture and enjoy the magnificent natural scenery. Come and experience its charm for yourself!