Quick Facts at a Glance
Don’t have time to read the whole guide? Here’s everything you need to know:
| What You Need to Know | The Details |
|---|---|
| Where is it? | Jade Street, Irisville Subdivision, Upper Irisan, Baguio. About 15-20 minutes from City Hall. |
| How much does it cost? | ₱165 for adults | ₱132 for seniors/PWD/students/kids | Free for babies under 1 year |
| Best time to visit? | 6-8 AM for sea of clouds | 4-6 PM for sunset. Skip the 10 AM-2 PM window (too hot, too crowded). |
| Is it wheelchair accessible? | NO. Lots of steep stairs and uneven stone surfaces. Not suitable for people with mobility issues. |
| Can I drive there? | Yes, but parking is limited. ₱50 for cars, ₱30 for motorcycles. Use Waze: ‘Dragon’s Lair B&B’ |
What is Dragon Treasure Castle Baguio?
Dragon Treasure Castle is a fantasy-themed stone fortress in Upper Irisan, Baguio City. It combines European medieval castle vibes with traditional Igorot stone masonry. As of 2026, it’s located in a residential subdivision with strict visitor rules.
Here’s what makes this place different from your typical Baguio tourist spot:
- It’s still being built (yes, you’ll see construction happening)
- Local craftsmen use ancient Igorot riprap techniques to build Game of Thrones-style towers
- It’s raw and unpolished—this isn’t Disneyland, it’s more like an authentic working art project
- The whole place can shut down if neighbors complain about noise (more on this later)
I’ll be honest with you—when I first heard about this place, I thought it was going to be another cheesy Instagram trap. But when I arrived on that foggy November morning, I was genuinely impressed. The combination of rough-hewn stone, dragon sculptures, and mountain views creates something special.
Who should visit? Photographers looking for unique shots, cosplayers wanting fantasy backdrops, and anyone who appreciates unconventional architecture. Who should skip it? People with mobility issues, those expecting polished tourist amenities, or anyone who gets nervous around heights and steep stairs.
Table of Contents
When Should You Visit Dragon Treasure Castle?
The best times are 6-8 AM for the sea of clouds experience and 4-6 PM for golden hour sunset views. Avoid visiting between 10 AM-2 PM when it’s brutally hot and crowded.
Here’s the breakdown of each time slot:
Early Morning (6:00-8:00 AM) – The Sea of Clouds Window
- This is when you’ll get those dreamy photos with the castle emerging from fog
- Soft, diffused light is perfect for photography—no harsh shadows on the stone
- Best during November-February when Baguio’s microclimate creates more fog
- Bring a jacket—Baguio mornings are cold (around 12-16°C)
Late Afternoon (4:00-6:00 PM) – Golden Hour Magic
- Warm amber sunlight hits the western-facing towers creating dramatic contrasts
- You can see the West Philippine Sea on clear days
- Perfect for silhouette shots on Kissing Rock
- Less crowded than midday
Midday (10:00 AM-2:00 PM) – Skip This If You Can
- The sun is directly overhead creating unflattering shadows
- Limestone surfaces reflect heat—it gets uncomfortably hot
- This is when most tourists show up, especially on weekends
- Minimal shade means you’ll be constantly exposed to UV rays
How Do You Get to Dragon Treasure Castle?
Dragon Treasure Castle is 15-20 minutes from Baguio City Hall. You can take a taxi (₱150-₱250), ride a jeepney (₱15-₱25 but requires walking), or drive your own car (parking is ₱50).
Let me break down each option with the real pros and cons:
Option 1: Taxi or Grab (Easiest but More Expensive)
- Cost: ₱150-₱250 one way from Session Road or City Hall
- Just tell the driver ‘Dragon Treasure Castle, Irisan’ or show the address
- Big problem: Most taxis won’t wait because it’s a residential area with strict rules
- Solution: Negotiate wait time (expect to pay ₱100-₱200 extra) or use Grab for pickup
- Warning: Cell signal is weak up there, so Grab might not work well
Option 2: Jeepney (Cheapest but Physically Demanding)
- Cost: Only ₱15-₱25 per person
- Look for ‘Irisan’ or ‘NPC Housing’ jeepneys at Kayang Street or City Hall
- The catch: Jeepney drops you at the highway gate, then you walk uphill for 1.5 km
- Alternative: Take a tricycle from the gate (₱20-₱50) to save your energy
- My experience: I tried walking once—it’s exhausting, especially with camera gear
Option 3: Drive Your Own Car (Best for Flexibility)
- Use Waze or Google Maps: Search for ‘Dragon’s Lair B&B’ (nearby landmark)
- Parking fee: ₱50 for cars, ₱30 for motorcycles
- Roads get narrow inside the subdivision—drive slowly and watch for blind corners
- Limited parking spaces—arrive before 8 AM on weekends to get a spot
- Once parked, you’ll take their free shuttle to the castle entrance
How Much Does It Cost to Enter?
Regular adult tickets cost ₱165. Seniors, PWDs, students, and kids pay ₱132. Babies under one year get in free. Your entrance fee includes the shuttle ride from parking to the castle.
| Who’s Visiting? | How Much? | What You Need to Show |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Adult | ₱165 | Anyone 13+ without discounts |
| Senior Citizen | ₱132 | Bring your Senior Citizen ID |
| PWD (Person with Disability) | ₱132 | Bring your PWD ID |
| Student | ₱132 | Any valid school ID works |
| Kids (2-12 years old) | ₱132 | No ID needed for age verification |
| Babies (Under 1 year) | Free | No charge for infants |
Important payment information:
- CASH ONLY—this is not negotiable
- No GCash, PayMaya, or credit cards accepted (weak signal makes e-wallets useless)
- Bring small bills (₱100, ₱50) because the ticketing booth might not have enough change
- Your ticket includes the shuttle van from the parking area to the castle gate
What Can You Actually Do at the Castle?
You’ll explore interconnected stone towers with dragon sculptures, visit the famous Kissing Rock viewpoint, rent medieval costumes for photos, and experience unique Igorot-European architecture fusion.
The castle isn’t a random maze—there’s a specific path that takes you through different areas:
The Dragon Sculptures
- These are the main attraction—massive stone dragons on towers and walls
- Every scale and claw is hand-carved by local Igorot craftsmen
- You can actually touch them (carefully—some edges are sharp)
- Each dragon has its own personality—the textures are all different
Kissing Rock
- A stone platform that juts out over the valley (yes, it’s a bit scary)
- Named for couples taking romantic silhouette photos at sunset
- Panoramic views of the Cordillera mountains and West Philippine Sea
- No guardrails—not recommended if you’re afraid of heights
Cosplay Costume Rentals
- Medieval capes, tunics, and prop swords available on-site
- Costs around ₱100-₱150 per costume set
- Basic quality but looks great in photos from a distance
The Architecture Itself
- This is what makes the castle genuinely interesting—not just pretty
- European medieval design (pointed arches, battlements, towers)
- Built entirely with traditional Igorot riprap—stones fitted without mortar
- Same technique used in Cordillera rice terraces and ancestral homes for centuries
Is Dragon Treasure Castle Safe? What About Accessibility?
No, it’s NOT wheelchair accessible. The castle has steep stairs, slippery stone surfaces, and zero ramps. You must wear rubber shoes. It’s in a residential area with strict noise rules, and it’s still under construction.
Let me be completely honest about the challenges:
Accessibility Issues (This is Important)
- Wheelchairs, walkers, or serious mobility problems? Don’t attempt this.
- The entire castle involves climbing steep stone stairs with uneven steps
- I counted at least 40 vertical meters of elevation change
- No elevators, no ramps, no alternative flat routes
- Even fit people will feel the climb in Baguio’s thin mountain air
Footwear Requirements (Strictly Enforced)
- Rubber-soled shoes are mandatory—they check this at the entrance
- Limestone gets extremely slippery when wet (common in humid Baguio)
- I saw someone in leather shoes almost fall badly
- Wear: hiking boots, trail runners, or good sneakers. Never: flip-flops, sandals, heels
Residential Zone Rules (Can Affect Your Visit)
- The castle is inside Irisville Subdivision—actual people live here
- Strict noise control: no loud music, shouting, or disruptive behavior
- Neighbors can (and do) complain, which leads to closure orders
- Always check their Facebook page before going—they post closure notices
- DHSUD or local government can shut them down for regulatory issues
Active Construction Site
- This is a ‘live build’—they’re still working on it
- Expect scaffolding, exposed rebar, and work-in-progress areas
- Some sections might be cordoned off with caution tape
- Stay within designated visitor areas for your own safety
What Should You Bring?
Must-haves: cash (at least ₱500), water, jacket, and rubber-soled shoes. Recommended: sunscreen, power bank, hat, and snacks.
| What to Pack | Why You Need It | How Critical? |
|---|---|---|
| Cash (₱500+) | No card readers or e-wallets work here. Bring small bills for easier transactions. | Absolutely Critical |
| Water Bottle | No stores inside. The climb + altitude will make you thirsty fast. | Absolutely Critical |
| Jacket or Sweater | Baguio mornings drop to 12-16°C. Stone towers trap cold wind. | Absolutely Critical |
| Rubber Shoes | Mandatory for entry. Slippery limestone will make you fall otherwise. | Absolutely Critical |
| Sunscreen SPF 30+ | High altitude = stronger UV. Almost no shade from the open-air design. | Highly Recommended |
| Power Bank | You’ll take tons of photos. No charging stations available. | Highly Recommended |
| Hat or Cap | Protects from sun during midday. Also helps reduce camera glare. | Nice to Have |
| Snacks | No food vendors. Typical visit takes 1-2 hours, possibly longer. | Nice to Have |
Pro tip about cell signal:
- Don’t expect to livestream or post real-time updates
- Upper Irisan has weak cell coverage—even major networks struggle
- Download offline maps before you go if you’re navigating by phone
So… Is Dragon Treasure Castle Worth Visiting?
Yes, if you’re into photography, cosplay, or unique architecture—it’s excellent value at ₱165. No, if you have mobility issues, expect polished amenities, or want a relaxing tourist experience.
Here’s my honest breakdown after visiting three times:
Who Will Love This Place:
- Photographers looking for unique backdrops (totally worth ₱165)
- Cosplayers who want fantasy-themed photoshoots
- Architecture nerds fascinated by cultural fusion projects
- People who appreciate raw, unpolished authenticity
- Travelers who like offbeat attractions over mainstream tourist traps
Who Should Skip It:
- Anyone using wheelchairs or with mobility limitations (zero accessibility)
- People expecting Disney-level polish and customer service
- Travelers on a tight schedule who need guaranteed access
- Those who get nervous around construction sites or heights
- Anyone just looking for a chill, relaxing day out
My personal take: I’ve paid way more for boring museums that gave me nothing memorable. This place costs ₱165 and delivered hours of visual stimulation and genuine cultural interest. But it’s definitely niche—you need to be okay with rough edges, occasional closures, and physical challenges.
If you’re already spending a few days in Baguio and have a free morning, go for it. If you’re trying to hit all the major sights in 24 hours, prioritize Baguio Cathedral or Mines View Park instead.
A Few Extra Tips from My Visits:
- Weekday mornings are way less crowded than weekend afternoons—you’ll have towers practically to yourself
- The stone gets really cold in early morning—wearing gloves helps if you’re gripping camera gear
- Some of the best shots are from the middle levels, not just the top—experiment with different angles
- Talk to the local craftsmen if they’re working—they love explaining the riprap techniques
- If you’re into videography, bring a gimbal stabilizer—the uneven surfaces make handheld footage shaky
Common Questions About Dragon Treasure Castle
Can I bring my pet dog or cat?
Maybe. The pet policy changes based on what the subdivision homeowners say. When I went in January 2026, small leashed dogs were allowed. But this could change next week. Always check their official Facebook page right before your trip to see current rules.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, absolutely. In fact, I strongly recommend it because there are zero food vendors or vending machines inside. Pack some snacks and bring plenty of water—the steep climbs will make you thirsty. Just please throw your trash in proper bins to keep the place clean and respect the residential neighborhood.
Are drones allowed for aerial photography?
It’s complicated. Drone rules in residential areas involve local ordinances and neighbor permissions. When I visited, there was no clear policy posted. If you’re serious about getting drone footage, message them on Facebook beforehand to get official permission. Flying without asking could upset homeowners and cause problems.
How long does a typical visit take?
Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours if you want to explore properly and take good photos. If you’re rushing, you could see the main highlights in 45 minutes, but you’ll miss a lot of cool details. I’ve personally spent 3+ hours there during golden hour photography sessions, so it really depends on what you want to do.
What if it rains while I’m there?
Rain makes everything dangerously slippery. The wet limestone turns into an ice rink, visibility drops, and there’s basically no covered shelter. Light drizzle is manageable if you’ve got good shoes and move carefully. But heavy rain? I’d honestly reschedule. The castle usually stays open during light rain, but it’s genuinely risky. Baguio weather changes fast, so bring a compact rain jacket even on sunny mornings.
How do I combine this with other Baguio attractions?
Dragon Treasure Castle works perfectly as a morning activity (6-8 AM for sea of clouds), then you can hit Camp John Hay or Wright Park by mid-morning. Since it’s in Upper Irisan, you’re already on the northern edge of the city—Tam-Awan Village is only 10-15 minutes away. I usually do this route: Castle at sunrise → breakfast at Good Taste Cafe → Tam-Awan Village → lunch at Hill Station → afternoon at Baguio Cathedral. That’s a solid full-day cultural immersion without backtracking across the city.
Is there a best season to visit?
November through February gives you the highest chance of sea of clouds in the early morning. This is Baguio’s coolest period (sometimes dropping to 10°C), so pack layers. March to May is warmer and drier—better for sunset shots but you’ll miss the fog effect. June to October is monsoon season, meaning unpredictable rain that can make the stones treacherous. My favorite time is late December when Christmas season tourists thin out but the weather’s still crisp and clear.
Any nearby places to eat or stay?
Dragon’s Lair B&B is literally next door if you want to stay overnight and catch sunrise without the commute. There are no restaurants walking distance from the castle—you’re in a residential subdivision. Your closest food options are back down the hill near Irisan proper (about 2 km away), where you’ll find small carinderia-style eateries serving Filipino breakfast. Most visitors just pack snacks or eat a proper meal back in the city center after their visit.
More Baguio Travel Guides You’ll Love
Planning to explore more of Baguio? Check out these detailed guides to help you make the most of your trip:
- 37 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Baguio City 2025 – Complete list of all the best attractions
- Baguio City Ultimate DIY Travel Guide 2025 (Budget Edition) – Plan your entire trip with budget tips
- Ultimate Guide to Igorot Stone Kingdom – Another stone architecture attraction similar to Dragon Treasure Castle
- Wright Park Baguio: Practical Tourist Information – Perfect for horseback riding after your castle visit
- Ultimate Guide to Burnham Park Baguio 2025 – The heart of Baguio’s tourist district
- Travel Guide to Botanical Garden in Baguio City – Nature photography and peaceful walks
- Ultimate Guide to Mines View Park in Baguio – Iconic viewpoint mentioned in this guide
- Ultimate Guide to Strawberry Farm Baguio – Pick fresh strawberries and enjoy farm activities
