Osaka

The ruins of Takeda Castle is called the "Castle in the Sky" of "Machu Picchu of the East."  They are truly appropriate names because the image of it floating above a sea of clouds, and gleaming in the light of the early morning sun in autumn is extremely beautiful. It's beyond description.  The "Castle in the Sky" can be seen from Ritsuun-Kyo on the opposite side of the ruins of the Castle.

 The ruins of Takeda Castle changes in appearance with the season: cherry blossoms in the spring, fresh green in the summer, a sea of clouds in autumn, and snowy scenery in the winter.
 As it stretches 400 meters from north to south, 100 meters from east to west, Takeda Castle is listed among the 100 Fine Castles in Japan.  Takeda Castle is said to have been completed in 1441 and was built at a height of 354 meters, by Shozen Yamada.  By 1580, the Castle all but fell down and only the stone walls remained.
  
If you're lucky, you may see the castle floating in a sea of clouds from Ritsuun-Kyo in autumn.
It takes almost five hours for a round trip from either Kyoto or Osaka, but it's worth seeing it. 
I'm sure you'll enjoy the 40-minute hiking and the nature in the cool autumn breeze.  

Why don't you come join my tour !!

Machu Picchu of the East: The Ruins of Takeda Castle