Looking for something a little different to your usual hotel or ryokan on your trip to Japan? While castles are often thought of as tourist attractions, Japan actually has several of them where you can stay overnight, blending the allure of the past with modern comforts. This guide covers three options available to travelers.
Ozu Castle, Ehime
At Ozu Castle, guests are given the unique opportunity to enjoy the entire castle—including the main tower and two turrets—as their private retreat for the duration of their stay. Plus, only the butlers and chefs allowed on the premises, meaning that guests can experience the ultimate in privacy and tranquility.
The Castle Lounge and bathhouse are both exclusive to Castle Stay guests, and offer stunning panoramic views of the castle, with the night-time illumination of the tower making for an especially breathtaking sight. The elegant setting is enhanced by premium furnishings and high-quality items made by local artisans, including Tobeyaki pottery.
Learn more about the experience at the official Ozu Castle Stay website.
Fukuyama Castle, Hiroshima
When it comes to ease of access, Fukuyama Castle is a real winner—the castle tower is just steps from Fukuyama Station, and is visible from both the shinkansen and local line platforms. Guests at the Fukuyama Castle Stay become lords for a day, enjoying exclusive access to the castle's historical buildings and cultural assets. The entire Fukuyama Castle Park is also available to those staying overnight, providing an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind experience.
Beyond the castle grounds, Fukuyama offers other attractions, including traditional Noh performances and nearby historic spots like Tomonoura and Kannabe Honjin. The concierge can tailor your stay by combining these local experiences, creating a custom-made journey that suits your preferences.
Get an idea of what to expect via the video below, and head to the castle stay site for additional information.
Marugame Castle, Kagawa
The Marugame Castle accommodation experience has only been available since mid-2024, where guests stay at the Enjukaku Annex. This building is rich with history and closely associated with the Kyogoku Clan, the former feudal lords of the Marugame Domain.
The annex is a 120-square-meter space designed in traditional Japanese sukiya-style architecture, offering a private and tranquil atmosphere with a garden that overlooks the expansive Sanuki Plain. The blend of architecture, garden, and stone walls surrounding the castle evokes a sense of the past, allowing visitors to feel a connection with the feudal lords who once admired the same views.
Learn more about the accommodation experience here on the official Marugame Castle Stay website.
