Immortal Masterpiece of Director Hayao Miyazaki: “Castle in the Sky”
One of the places said to be the model for Laputa, the fantastical floating castle in the sky, is Caernarfon Castle located in the Gwynedd region of northwest Wales, England. This article thoroughly explains the charm of Caernarfon Castle as a sacred pilgrimage site that any Studio Ghibli fan should visit at least once.
What is Caernarfon Castle? Its Relationship with Castle in the Sky
Caernarfon Castle is a medieval fortress located in Gwynedd, in the northwest region of Wales, England. Its construction was begun in 1283 by King Edward I of England, and it was built as a symbol of the conquest of Wales.
Reasons It’s Considered a Model for Laputa
In creating “Castle in the Sky,” Director Hayao Miyazaki is said to have referenced medieval castles from various parts of Europe. The reasons Caernarfon Castle is considered one of the models are as follows:
- Distinctive multi-sided towers: The characteristic polygonal towers of Caernarfon Castle share commonalities with the architectural style of Laputa’s castle
- Location surrounded by sea and mountains: Facing the Menai Strait with the Snowdonia mountain range as a backdrop, creating a fantastical landscape
- Imposing stone castle walls: Evoking the grandeur of ancient civilization ruins appearing in the film
- Historical dignity: The grand scale registered as a World Heritage Site
However, it should be understood that Studio Ghibli has not officially stated this, and there is a high likelihood that multiple castles and ruins served as composite sources of inspiration.
The History and World Heritage Value of Caernarfon Castle
Background and Purpose of Construction
In 1282, King Edward I of England subdued Wales’ independent forces and, to firmly establish his rule, constructed a series of fortresses called the “Iron Ring” throughout Wales. Caernarfon Castle served as the core fortress of this ring, constructed over approximately 47 years beginning in 1283.
Designed by architect James of St. George, it features distinctive multi-sided towers and colorful stone materials modeled after the walls of Constantinople (present-day Istanbul). This was not merely a military facility but also a symbolic structure demonstrating the prestige of English royal authority.
Relationship with Prince of Wales
In 1301, Edward I appointed his son Edward (later Edward II) as the first “Prince of Wales.” This title subsequently became a tradition bestowed on the heir to the English (later British) throne, and the current Prince William also holds this title.
In 1969, the investiture ceremony of Charles, the eldest son of Elizabeth II (now King Charles III), as Prince of Wales was held at Caernarfon Castle and broadcast worldwide.
UNESCO World Heritage Registration
In 1986, Caernarfon Castle was registered as part of “Edward I’s Castles and Town Walls in Gwynedd” by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Registered simultaneously were:
- Caernarfon Castle
- Conwy Castle
- Beaumaris Castle
- Harlech Castle
These are acclaimed as masterpieces of medieval European military architecture.
Architectural Features of Caernarfon Castle
Distinctive Multi-Sided Towers
While typical medieval castles adopt circular towers, Caernarfon Castle features multi-sided towers (primarily octagonal or decagonal). This was inspired by Byzantine architectural style, reflecting Edward I’s international vision and ambition.
The main towers include the following:
- Eagle Tower: The tallest and most magnificent tower in the castle, formerly crowned with an eagle sculpture at its summit
- Queen’s Tower: Named after Edward I’s queen, Eleanor
- Black Tower: An impressive tower constructed from dark stone
Colorful Stone Materials
The castle walls of Caernarfon are characterized by a distinctive striped pattern created by alternating layers of light-colored limestone and dark-colored sandstone. This mimicked the walls of Theodosius in Constantinople and was an extremely advanced design for the time.
Double Wall System
The castle features a double-wall structure of inner and outer walls, equipped with a sophisticated defense system. The castle walls reach a maximum thickness of 5 meters and were guarded by multiple gates and drawbridges.
Highlights to Note for Castle in the Sky Fans
Castle Wall Walk
When visiting Caernarfon Castle, be sure to walk along the top of the castle walls. From the approximately 730-meter-long walls, you can see an overview of the Menai Strait, Snowdonia mountain range, and the town of Caernarfon.
Especially at dusk, the sky tinged orange and the silhouette of the ancient castle create a fantastical landscape reminiscent of a scene from “Castle in the Sky.” On windy days, you might experience the sensation of flying through the sky like Pazu and Sheeta.
Views from Eagle Tower
Climbing to Eagle Tower, the highest point in the castle, offers a 360-degree panoramic view. On clear days, you can see all the way to Anglesey Island and Snowdon (Wales’ highest peak).
Inside the tower are exhibits recreating medieval life and displays related to the history of the Prince of Wales, allowing for a deeper understanding of the castle’s historical background.
King’s Gate
The King’s Gate, the main entrance, features a complex defensive structure with 5 doors and 6 portcullises. Passing through this gate allows you to experience how medieval soldiers protected the castle.
Exhibition in Chamberlain’s Tower
Inside Chamberlain’s Tower is the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum, where valuable exhibits on Welsh military history can be seen. Medieval weapons, armor, and uniforms are on display, with many connections linking to the world of Laputa.
How to Access Caernarfon Castle
Access from London
By train:
- Direct train from London Euston Station to Bangor Station for approximately 3 hours 30 minutes
- Local train from Bangor Station to Caernarfon Station for approximately 15 minutes
- Walk from Caernarfon Station to the castle for approximately 10 minutes
Total time: approximately 4 hours
Cost: approximately £100-150 return (discounts available for advance booking)
By rental car:
Drive north from London on the A5 highway, approximately 400 km and 5-6 hours. It’s also possible to stop at tourist attractions like the Cotswolds along the way.
Access from Manchester
From Manchester, it’s approximately 2 hours by car and approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by rail via Bangor, making it easily accessible and ideal for combining with North England sightseeing.
Access from Liverpool
From Liverpool, it’s approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car and approximately 2 hours by train. Combining Beatles pilgrimage sites with Wales tourism is also a popular plan.
Local Transportation
Since Caernarfon is a small town, traveling from the station to the castle on foot is entirely feasible. The town also has parking facilities, making visits by rental car convenient.
Practical Information for Visiting
Opening Hours and Admission
Opening Hours:
- March-June, September-October: 9:30-17:00
- July-August: 9:30-18:00
- November-February: 10:00-16:00
- Closed December 24-26, January 1
Admission (as of 2024):
- Adults: £11.00
- Children (5-17 years): £6.60
- Family ticket (2 adults + up to 3 children): £31.90
- Seniors/Students (60+): £9.90
※Prices may change; please check the official website for the latest information.
Required Time
Plan for 2-3 hours for a thorough tour of the castle. If including the castle wall walk and taking time for photography while viewing leisurely, 3-4 hours is ideal.
Best Season
While Wales is a rainy region, the best season for visiting is May-September. During this period, daylight hours are long and weather is relatively stable. Particularly from June-August, it remains light until around 9 PM, making extended sightseeing possible.
During winter (November-February), opening hours are shorter and weather is unstable, but there are fewer tourists and you may have the opportunity to see the castle in a snowy landscape.
Clothing and Items to Bring
- Waterproof jacket: Essential as weather changes rapidly in Wales
- Comfortable walking shoes: Sneakers or trekking shoes are recommended for climbing castle walls and tower stairs
- Hat and sunscreen: Summer sun can be intense
- Camera: Bring a charged camera or smartphone as there are many scenic spots
- Binoculars: Useful for enjoying distant views
Tourist Attractions Around Caernarfon
Snowdonia National Park
Snowdonia National Park, approximately 30 minutes by car from Caernarfon Castle, is a magnificent natural park centered on Snowdon Mountain (1,085 meters), Wales’ highest peak. The landscape is reminiscent of the nature-rich scenery of “Castle in the Sky.”
Using the Snowdon Mountain Railway, even without mountaineering experience, you can reach the summit and enjoy spectacular views on clear days.
Conwy Castle
Also constructed by Edward I and registered as a World Heritage Site, Conwy Castle is approximately 30 minutes by car from Caernarfon Castle. It features well-preserved conditions and eight massive circular towers.
Portmeirion
Portmeirion, a unique village characterized by Italian-style architecture, is approximately 40 minutes by car from Caernarfon. With colorful buildings and beautiful gardens, it offers an atmosphere as if you were in the Mediterranean.
Anglesey Island
Across the Menai Strait lies Anglesey Island, attractive for its beautiful beaches and nature. It’s also known as the place where Prince William and Princess Catherine spent their early married years.
Sacred Pilgrimage Plan for Studio Ghibli Fans
One-Day Model Course
Morning:
- 9:30 Enter Caernarfon Castle upon opening
- 10:00-12:00 Tour castle interior, walk castle walls, climb towers
- 12:00-13:00 Lunch at a café near the castle
Afternoon:
- 13:30-15:00 Explore Caernarfon town, shopping
- 15:30-17:00 Move to Snowdonia National Park, nature walk
- 17:30 Photograph Caernarfon Castle from outside while viewing the sunset
Two to Three-Day Plan
Day 1:
- Tour Caernarfon Castle
- Stay in Caernarfon
Day 2:
- Hiking in Snowdonia National Park
- Tour Conwy Castle
- Stay in Conwy or Bangor
Day 3:
- Visit Portmeirion
- Explore Anglesey Island
Accommodation and Dining in Caernarfon
Recommended Hotels
The Celtic Royal Hotel:
A historic hotel directly in front of the castle. Some rooms offer views of the castle, making it ideal for Studio Ghibli fans.
Caernarfon Youth Hostel:
Recommended for those on a budget. It’s clean with good facilities.
Plas Dinas Country House:
A quiet country house hotel in the outskirts. Enjoy an elegant stay.
Welsh Cuisine
When visiting Caernarfon, be sure to sample Welsh cuisine:
- Welsh Rarebit: Cheese placed on toast, a traditional dish
- Cawl: Welsh-style stew
- Laverbread: Traditional seaweed-based breakfast
- Welsh Cakes: Sweet cakes baked on a griddle
Photography Tips and Best Spots
Standard Angles
- From the Menai Strait side: Photographing the castle with the sea as foreground reveals beautiful reflections on the water’s surface
- From Castle Square: The view looking up at the castle walls from the town square is impressive
- From the castle walls: A landscape photograph with the Snowdonia mountain range as backdrop
- Aerial view from Eagle Tower: A panoramic overview of the entire town
Appeal by Time of Day
- Early morning (7:00-9:00): A fantastical castle wrapped in morning mist
- Midday (12:00-14:00): Beautiful contrast between blue sky and stone construction
- Dusk (18:00-20:00, summer): The silhouette against the orange sky is spectacular
- Evening: Illuminated castle (during special events)
Photography Equipment
- Wide-angle lens: 14-24mm is ideal for capturing the entire castle
- Telephoto lens: 70-200mm is recommended for photographing tower details
- Tripod: Necessary for sunset and night photography
- ND filter: Use for long-exposure daytime photography to smoothly express water surfaces
Other Places Considered Models for Laputa
The inspiration source for “Castle in the Sky” is not singular; various ruins and castles from around the world are said to have influenced it. Places mentioned besides Caernarfon Castle:
Beng Mealea Ruins (Cambodia)
One of the Angkor temple complexes, a mysterious temple consumed by jungle. It’s famous as the place that most embodies Laputa’s sense of ruins and fusion with nature.
Civita di Bagnoregio (Italy)
A small hilltop town called the “Sky Castle.” Its isolated location and old stone buildings create an atmosphere of Laputa.
Peru’s Machu Picchu
An Incan ruin floating above the clouds. In terms of harmony between advanced civilization and nature, it shares commonality with Laputa’s world view.
Takeda Castle Ruins (Japan)
A mountain castle in Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture, called “Japan’s Machu Picchu” for its appearance floating in sea of clouds. Popular as a domestic spot where you can experience the feeling of Laputa.
Historical Episodes of Caernarfon Castle
Birth of Edward II
On April 25, 1284, Edward I’s son (later Edward II) was born at Caernarfon Castle. According to legend, Edward I promised the Welsh a king born in Wales who couldn’t speak English, and presented the newborn infant. This is said to be the origin of the title “Prince of Wales.”
Symbol of Welsh Independence Movement
Caernarfon Castle is simultaneously a symbol of English dominance and of Welsh identity. During the early 15th-century Welsh independence movement led by Owain Glyndŵr, attempts were made to capture the castle (though unsuccessful).
Today, the castle continues to play an important role in the Welsh language revival movement and cultural identity.
Role During World War II
During World War II, Caernarfon Castle served as an air raid shelter and storage for valuable artworks and documents. Fortunately, the castle itself escaped war damage and was subsequently developed as a tourist attraction.
Welsh Culture and Caernarfon
Welsh Language
Caernarfon is an area with many Welsh language speakers, and town signs and information boards are displayed in both English and Welsh. The castle’s name in Welsh is “Castell Caernarfon.”
Learning a few simple Welsh phrases when interacting with locals is appreciated:
- Hello: Shwmae
- Thank you: Diolch
- Goodbye: Hwyl
Annual Events
Various events are held at Caernarfon Castle throughout the year:
- Medieval Festival (summer): Knight combat reenactments, medieval markets, musical performances, etc.
- Prince of Wales Day: Special exhibitions related to the heir to the throne
- Christmas Market (December): Christmas fair in the castle
Checking the official website for event information before visiting allows for a more fulfilling experience.
Visitors’ Voices: Impressions from Those Who Have Visited
Many Studio Ghibli fans have visited Caernarfon Castle and shared their impressions:
“Walking on the castle walls, I truly felt like Pazu and Sheeta. The wind was so strong; it seemed like I could fly through the sky.” (Female, 30s, Japan)
“I visited because I heard it was a model for Laputa, but I was moved by its historical depth. It’s worth far more than just an anime pilgrimage site.” (Male, 40s, Japan)
“The castle at dusk was truly beautiful. The silhouette floating in the orange sky was exactly like the castle in the sky.” (Female, 20s, UK)
Summary: A Sacred Site Every Studio Ghibli Fan Must Visit
Caernarfon Castle is a sacred pilgrimage site that any Studio Ghibli fan should visit at least once, as one of the places considered a model for “Castle in the Sky.” However, its charm extends beyond its connection to animation.
As a World Heritage Site with over 700 years of history, it is a magnificent fortress embodying the pinnacle of medieval European architectural technology and also symbolizes Welsh culture and identity. Surrounded by the beautiful natural environment of the Menai Strait and Snowdonia mountain range, you can experience a special moment where history and fantasy intersect.
Though a day trip from London is possible, it’s recommended to stay 1-2 nights to enjoy Welsh nature and culture at a leisurely pace. Hiking in Snowdonia National Park, visiting other World Heritage sites like Conwy Castle, and enjoying Welsh cuisine—the Caernarfon area is abundant with appealing tourist resources.
On your next trip to Britain, try extending your journey beyond London and Edinburgh to Caernarfon Castle in Wales. It will be an unforgettable trip where you can actually experience the world of “Castle in the Sky.”
You may feel the urge to shout “Balse!” while gazing at the panorama from the castle walls. However, actually shouting it may startle other tourists, so it’s recommended to chant it silently in your heart.
