🏯Takatori Castle Ruins: Biggest mountain top castle in Japan!🏯, Sun, Nov 19, 2023, 10:30 AM

Join us for an exhilarating hike to the Takatori Castle Ruins, the largest mountain top castle in Japan! This event will take place on Sun, Nov 19, 2023, starting at 10:30 AM.

We are excited to have Bryan Baier, a seasoned Nara Tourism expert, as our guide for this hike. With over 2 years of experience and extensive knowledge of the area, Bryan will provide valuable insights throughout the journey.

To learn more about the fascinating history of Takatori Castle, check out Bryan's article on "Travel Japan" here. You can also admire Bryan's stunning photos of the castle and its surroundings in the same link.

Constructed in 1332, Takatori Castle spanned an impressive 3 kilometers from its outermost gate to the central tower foundations. Throughout its existence, it played significant roles in various revolts and battles before being abandoned in 1873.

Don't forget to check out the photos from our previous hike here!

During the hike, we will also visit Tsubosakadera, the Temple of Eye Health. This temple, founded in the 8th century due to a miraculous event, showcases a captivating blend of traditional Japanese architecture and Indian sculpture and imagery. These Indian works were gifted to the temple as a token of gratitude for its support in India's battle against leprosy.

The total cost for this event includes a round trip train fare of ¥1,440, a round trip bus fare of ¥660, and an entry fee of ¥500 for Tsubosakadera. Please note that each participant is responsible for covering their own expenses.

Make sure to bring or buy your lunch at Abenobashi Station, as there are no restaurants or stores along the hiking trail!

Here is the schedule for the day:

• 10:30-10:45: Assemble at Mos Burger Abenobashi (East Exit of Abenobashi Station)
• 10:50-11:37: Express train to Tsubosakayama
• 11:37-11:48: Arrive at Tsubosakayama Station, use toilet, transfer to bus to Tsubosakadera
• 11:48-11:59: Bus to Tsubosakadera
• 12:00-13:00: Hike to Takatori Castle
• 13:00-13:30: Lunch at Takatori Castle
• 13:30-14:30: Explore Takatori Castle
• 14:30-15:30: Hike down to Tsubosakadera
• 15:30-16:00: Explore Tsubosaka Temple
• 16:05: Catch bus back to Tsubosakayama Station
• 16:22: Catch Kintetsu Line Express train back to Osaka-Abenobashi
• 17:12: Otsukaresama

This event is open to anyone aged 6 and above. The cost includes a guide fee of 1500yen, which covers detailed discussions on the history of the area by a professional guide.

The hike is categorized as easy difficulty, so no prior hiking experience is required. However, it is recommended to bring food, water, and wear comfortable walking shoes.

We will be meeting at Abenobashi Station, specifically at the EAST gates outside the Mos Burger restaurant. Abenobashi Station is conveniently located next to Tennoji Station and is situated underneath Abeno Harukasu, Japan's tallest building.