Takeda Castle, often likened to the Machu Picchu, is among the country's most beautiful historic sites. At an altitude of over 353m/1,158ft, the remains (mainly foundations) emerge in autumn out of a sea of cloud, thus explaining its poetic nickname, "castle in the sky". From the top of this must-see site, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view over the surrounding green valleys. The feudal lord, Sozen Yamana had this fort built in 1431 to protect the Tajima region from attacks from neighbouring regions.