RUINS

Immerse yourself in sites that look like they could be straight out of Ghibli's classic film 'Castle in the Sky.'

What do you do once you've seen the big attraction and still want more castle action? We've got nine answers right here!

Prior to the Warring States Period (1467-1590), most castles in Japan were 'yamajiro,' or mountain castles, and they were the pinnacle of defense for Japan's clashing warlords. Trek into the countryside to find out more about them!

Whether they’re haunted, abandoned or just plain old creepy, these spots will definitely show you a chilly side of Japan you may never yet have known.

Spoon & Tamago tracks down six intrepid Instagram users who beautifully—and sometimes creepily—document Japan’s most atmospheric ruins.