12 Must-See Castles and Ruins in Western Japan!

Discover 12 must-see castles and castle ruins in western Honshu: Himeji, Okayama, Hiroshima, plus National Treasure Matsue, “sky castle” Bitchu-Matsuyama, and misty Takeda. Great for views and history.

This 12-castle lineup lets you see some of western Honshu’s most impressive fortresses in just a short trip. Start with the essentials: Himeji Castle (UNESCO), then compare it with Okayama Castle (“Crow Castle”) and Hiroshima Castle to see how flatland castles were built in different cities. These spots are easy to combine with nearby old town areas, so they work well for first-time visitors to Japan.

What really makes this route special is adding Matsue Castle (a National Treasure) and Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, often called Japan’s “castle in the sky.” Matsue still has its original keep and a beautiful moat you can cruise, while Bitchu Matsuyama sits high on a mountain and sometimes floats above a sea of clouds — perfect for photographers and fans of “hidden Japan.”

Takeda Castle Ruins is another must for sunrise and autumn travelers: the stone walls on the mountaintop look dramatic when mist fills the valley. Most places can be reached by train plus taxi, but renting a car makes it possible to visit 2–3 castles a day. This set works for history lovers, landscape hunters, and anyone who wants castles with great views — not just museum-style sites.