The Misty Phoenix: My Solo Visit to Maruoka Castle, Fukui

#hellohalloween In the quiet countryside of Fukui Prefecture stands Maruoka Castle, a small but mighty survivor. Known as the "Mist Castle" (Kasumi-ga-jō), it boasts one of the oldest surviving castle keeps in Japan, dating back to 1576. For a solo traveler, it's an intimate and atmospheric journey to a time of warring states, wrapped in local legend and resilience. My Solo Itinerary: · Morning – The Oldest Keep & Stone Walls: I arrived early to see the morning mist (if I was lucky) cling to the castle's iconic black roof. I climbed the steep, wooden stairs inside the compact, three-story keep, feeling the centuries in the creaking wood. The interior is austere and powerful, a testament to its purely military design. I then walked the grounds, admiring the massive, rugged nozurazumi stone walls. · Afternoon – Cherry Blossom Tunnel & Local Museum: I spent time in the surrounding Kasumiga-jo Park, which is famous for its stunning tunnel of over 400 cherry trees. Even off-season, it's a peaceful spot. I visited the small on-site museum to see artifacts and learn the legend of the "Go-Hime" stone and the loyal servant who sacrificed herself to save the castle from destruction. · Evening – A Quiet Reflection & Echizen Soba: I found a quiet bench to simply absorb the castle's stoic presence. Before leaving Fukui, I made sure to try a bowl of the region's famous Echizen soba (buckwheat noodles), a perfect, simple end to a day of history. Why Maruoka Castle is Perfect for Solo Travelers: · Intimate & Authentic: Its small size and original status create a deeply personal connection to history. You can take your time without feeling rushed. · Rich in Legend: The story of its construction and the "Mist Legend" add a layer of mystical charm to the visit. · Peaceful & Uncrowded: Located away from major tourist circuits, it offers a serene and contemplative atmosphere. · A Testament to Survival: It has withstood earthquakes, war, and time, making its continued existence all the more impressive. Tips for Your Visit: · 🚂 Access: Take a train to Awara-Onsen Station or Fukui Station, then a local bus to Maruoka. Check bus schedules carefully as they are infrequent. · 🌸 Visit in early-mid April for the spectacular cherry blossoms that frame the castle. · 📖 Read the legend of "Okuro's Mist" before you go—it will make seeing the Go-Hime stone much more meaningful. · 🏯 Appreciate the architecture: Notice the unique, steeply pitched shachihoko (dolphin-fish) roof ornaments, designed to protect against fire. Maruoka Castle is a humble giant. It doesn't need grandeur to command respect; its age, its story, and its quiet dignity are more than enough. --- Hashtags: #solojapan #maruokacastle #fukui #japanesecastle #oldestkeep #mistcastle #hiddenjapan #solotravel