Echizen Ōno-jō

Atop a hill overlooking the town, this little yamashiro (mountain castle) is a true delight, even if it is a replica and you have to climb all those stairs. The castle was originally built in 1576; today's version went up in 1968 to exacting specifications. The views of the unspoilt surrounding valleys and mountains are something special, and they're worth the climb even if you don't go into the castle.