What to know
Maruoka Castle (丸岡城, Maruokajō) is one of only twelve castles in Japan that still have their original keep intact from the feudal era. Though once thought to be the oldest, recent research dates its three-story keep to the early 1600s. The castle is also known as the "mist castle" due to a legend that thick fog would hide it from enemies.
Perched on a small hill north of Fukui City, the wooden keep is preserved unfurnished except for a few information panels and a diorama on the ground floor. Steep wooden stairs, aided by ropes hanging from the ceiling, lead to the upper floors. From the top, visitors enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding plains.
The keep is the only major surviving structure. The former castle grounds are now a public park with a small museum displaying arms, armor, and household items of the castle's former lords. Over 400 cherry trees bloom from early to mid April, and a cherry blossom festival is held during the first three weeks of April, with the trees lit by over 300 paper lanterns in the evenings.
Take a bus from Fukui Station bound for Maruokajō (丸岡城) and get off at the final stop (50-60 minutes, 670 yen, hourly). The castle is a short walk from the bus stop.
By rental car, the castle is about a 30-minute drive from Fukui Station. Free parking is available next to the castle.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 8:30 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30)
- Closed
- No closing days
- Admission
- 450 yen (~$2.88) (includes entry to the castle keep and nearby museum)
- English name
- Original name
- Maruoka Castle
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.