Top 3 castles in Japan you will want sleep in

Asia has always been at the top of many travelers' lists. Among other Asian countries, Japan stands out for many reasons, including its unique blend of unrivaled technological leadership and preservation of centuries-old traditions. During a trip to Japan, you can stay in one of the country's historic castles.

This is a rare experience if you compare it to European countries, where castle hotels cannot be called a "true rarity". It's different in Japan because there are only three such castles in the whole country! You may think that's ridiculous - but consider that just last year there were only two castles offering accommodation for tourists.

The 14th-century Ozu Castle grounds, including the castle keep and its two turrets, are important national cultural properties. How authentic is it? Well, the keep, built in 1331, had deteriorated considerably by 1888 and was demolished.

In 2004, it was rebuilt using traditional techniques that made the reconstruction as historically accurate as possible. The project, which cost about $10 million, gave a boost to dying crafts such as carpentry and blacksmithing.

The grounds of Ozu Castle are offered as a private space to guests who stay overnight! During your stay, no one except the butlers or chefs are allowed on the entire grounds of the castle. But this level of exclusivity comes at a price.

A night for two people will set you back $9,000. If there are 3 of you, you'll have to pay an additional $2,700. Prices for children vary depending on their age (i.e. students/preschoolers/infants). The maximum occupancy is 6 persons. Depending on the length of your stay, you will be offered a program to feel and enjoy the castle to the fullest! Check details on the Ozu Castle’s website.

The second option is Hirado Castle on a small and peaceful peninsula near Nagasaki. Built in the early 18th century, the castle's primary purpose was to defend the East China Sea region. By the end of the 19th century, all of Hirado's structures had been dismantled, and only the north gate, a tower, and the moat remained intact.

It was not until 1962 that four towers, the keep, and the ramparts were rebuilt. Hirado was the first historical castle in Japan to offer accommodation for tourists. But you can only spend 1 night there, namely at Kaiju Yagura, which offers a spacious 2-storey combined living and dining room (120m2 in total). You can admire the view from the bathroom with glass walls on 3 sides, overlooking the surrounding ocean.

Prices per night are similar to Ozu Castle - $9,000 for a double room plus about $520 per person if there are three of you. They also promise to treat you to local delicacies.

The 17th-century Fukuyama Castle recently joined the duo, making it a trio. It offers guests who become lords of the castle for one day a personal lounge on the top floor of the five-story keep.

There's also a tatami bedroom in the Tukimi Yagura Turret with a panoramic view of the castle grounds and the "Oyudono" baths, where lords once relaxed after a busy day. Designed in the style of the Edo period, they feature a sauna-like environment.

This rare opportunity to have private access to the entire castle will cost you approximately $8,500 for two people per night. You will also get a unique tour of the wooden Fushimi Yagura Turret, which was moved here from Fushimi Castle in Kyoto.