Key Facts
• Takeda Castle, known as the “Castle in the Sky,” attracts tourists in autumn.
• Located in Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture, accessible within 1-2 hours from major cities.
• Fog phenomenon creates a floating castle effect, visible late October to late November.
• Over 5,600 visitors came during the November 1-3 holiday in 2025.
• Takeda Castle is linked to Toyotomi Hidenaga, featured in NHK’s 2026 Taiga drama.
• Asago City faces challenges like population decline and labor shortages.
• Iwatsu green onions, a local specialty, are sold starting November 23 annually.
• Cultivated since the Edo period, Iwatsu green onions are soft and versatile in cooking.
• Recognized as a Japanese Agricultural Heritage in January 2025.
• Nationwide Green Onion Summit 2025 to be held in Asago on November 23-24.
• Summit features regional green onions and over 80 food booths showcasing local cuisine.
Summary
Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture, is celebrating its seasonal attractions, including the iconic Takeda Castle, often called the “Castle in the Sky,” and its specialty Iwatsu green onions. The castle, famous for its fog-covered appearance, draws thousands of visitors during autumn. This year, over 5,600 tourists visited during the November holiday. The city is also preparing for the Nationwide Green Onion Summit 2025, the first in western Japan, on November 23-24. The event will showcase various regional green onions and local delicacies. Despite its natural beauty and cultural heritage, Asago faces challenges like population decline and labor shortages. Mayor Yu Fujioka emphasized efforts to create a supportive environment for families and promote sustainable agriculture. Visitors are encouraged to explore the city’s unique offerings this fall.
