In the world of anime, you don’t have to be a king or a wizard to live in a magnificent castle. Whether you’re a skilled magician or just an ordinary person, you can still inhabit a castle that is grand and unique to yourself. Below is a list of some of the most spectacular castles in anime, sure to impress those who love breathtaking scenery.
Howl’s Moving Castle – Howl no Ugoku Shiro
Whenever you think of “anime castles,” you’re likely to recall “Howl’s Moving Castle.” The title itself promotes the presence of these remarkable castles, and Howl’s castle is anything but ordinary; it is utterly breathtaking. Unlike typical castles, it resembles a fish swimming on chicken legs…
However, if we talk about mobility, it is indeed remarkable: it can fly through the sky, dance on the ground with its legs, and even change its form according to its owner’s mood. There may not be towering skyscrapers to limit the forms of princess castles, but it still stands out with its unique characteristics.
Laputa – Tenkuu no Shiro Laputa
Perhaps Mr. Miyazaki has a penchant for flying castles, as our next mention is the super iconic Laputa from another Ghibli film. It is not just a castle; it symbolizes hope for a world above the clouds that has long been lost. Like Howl’s castle, Laputa doesn’t resemble traditional castles; instead, it is a floating city in the sky with lush trees to maintain its vibrant state. How such a castle could exist above the clouds is a mystery in the film.
Cagliostro Castle – Lupin III: Cagliostro no Shiro
Here is the last film from Mr. Miyazaki in our list, and Cagliostro Castle does not soar through the sky like the previous two. This installment of the Lupin III series also features a stunning castle prominently displayed at the beginning. It is lavish, adorned with grandeur and embodies the essence of legendary treasure hunters. A beautiful castle that hides a treasure trove is definitely not just an architectural fantasy.
Mariejois Castle – One Piece
Luffy and his crew have stepped foot on numerous grand castles throughout their treasure-hunting journey, and the most notable among them is Mariejois Castle. A castle that does not merely float high above but has several layers and intricate structures, it is often shrouded in mist, perhaps due to the height of the castle itself, giving Mariejois a unique and fascinating aura.
Aincard Castle – Sword Art Online
Sword Art Online has introduced various unique worlds, and the castles in this series are no exception. Aincard Castle has a vertical structure with a distinctive design that doesn’t resemble other traditional castles. This castle serves as a central hub in the virtual reality game, challenging players to face off against the lurking vampires. While it may seem less impressive because it is a virtual construct, it offers a unique experience to those trapped in the game world.
Liones Castle – Nanatsu no Taizai (The Seven Deadly Sins)
Every time we see a castle, it often reflects a European architectural style. There’s nothing surprising when Liones Castle, the capital of the Kingdom, appears majestic, as it is built within a narrative filled with tales and legends about King Arthur. At the same time, Liones also boasts a perfect harmony with a moat that protects the castle, and its architecture is always grand.
Blood Lad Castle – Blood Lad
Every vampire needs a castle to dwell in, and the castle featured in “Blood Lad” fits perfectly with the gothic standard. Etched in dark purple and black, floating above a dark cliff, this castle embodies the ominous atmosphere and is a fitting residence for a vampire. Audiences will instantly recognize the castle’s dark aura, which is a significant aspect of the “Blood Lad” universe.
Krul’s Castle – Owari no Seraph (Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign)
In the series “Seraph of the End,” the elegant castle of Krul reflects a gothic style, with its towering structure and unique vibe that sets it apart from others. The castle, surrounded by a dark atmosphere, draws in visitors and evokes a sense of intrigue. Undoubtedly, vampires always have the most exquisite castles.
Scotland Castle – Ibara no Ou (King of Thorn)
Scotland Castle appears perfectly with its chilling surroundings that threaten those who dare to approach. In “King of Thorn,” this castle serves as a sanctuary for 160 people infected by a deadly virus sweeping the globe. After many years, this castle has become a realm of its own, filled with darkness, mystery, and monsters. This is not just a backdrop for a sci-fi anime, but a warning of impending doom.
Mercurius Castle – Fairy Tail
In the long-running anime “Fairy Tail,” viewers often see one or two castles in the characters’ adventures. The most notable is Mercurius, a castle that seems to defy imagination. Located in Fiore, this castle towers over all the buildings in the city. Its architecture resembles a blend of different styles, creating a unique fortress-like appearance.
Shabboneau Castle – Pokémon X&Y
The main character of Pokémon has set foot in many significant locations, particularly the haunted mountain where the ghost-type Pokémon are active, so naturally, a castle like Shabboneau must be included. This castle serves as a significant barrier between it and the remaining parts of the continent. It stands out for its unique appearance, and its castle structure is compatible with the standards of a high-ranking lord.
Hellsing Castle – Hellsing
The Hellsing estate is more than just a castle; it is a fortress that has been mentioned frequently. With its gothic style and dark ambiance, the estate stands out with its unique architecture and elaborate design, making it a formidable place against the forces of vampires – an iconic setting in the world of “Hellsing.”
Einsberg Castle – Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works
The castle in the anime featuring Illya is a grand space; however, when it comes to the number of people living there, Illya resides with her servant and two maids. While the exterior of Einsberg appears as a distant castle, the interior wowingly showcases numerous grand decorations of castle value.
Dandelion Castle – Joukamachi no Dandelion (Castle Town Dandelion)
Typically, a king inherits the throne from the past monarch, but in the world of “Castle Town Dandelion,” the electoral season is on, and the royal family must earn the hearts of the people. The elections create a direct competition for the throne and the right to reside in a magnificent castle!
Source: Myanimelist
