Takeda Castle. It’s like Machu Picchu. How can you get there?

Have you ever heard of Takeda Jo (Takeda Castle)? Although it is not a castle anymore, it is still regularly attracting people. It is regarded as a national heritage site. I will now introduce this place to you.

Takeda Castle (Takeda-jō) is a historical site of castle ruins in the city of Hyōgo Prefecture. It is located 65 km north of Himeji Castle, a world heritage site.  It was built in 1441 at the summit of Mt.Kojyo with an altitude of 353.7 m,  referred to locally as the Machu Picchu of Japan.

Its is not possible to see the sight, as pictured above, all the time. There is a possibility that the sea of clouds may come cover the castle between 5 am to 8 am from September to November. To be able to see the castle in its full glory, you need to have fine weather and little wind.

First of all, you need to get to Himeji train station. You can get to Himeji from Osaka in about an our by train.

When you arrive at Himeji station you need to change and get onto the Bantan line in the direction of Teramae. Once you arrive at Teramae you then need to change trains again and take the direction of Wadayama and get off at Takeda.

From Takeda station, it’s about a 45 minute walk to Takeda Castle. If you would prefer to get a bus or a taxi, you can get to Takeda Castle in around 15 minutes.