Fairy Tale Dream Come True: A Visit to Germany's Neuschwanstein Castle

Finally, I set foot in the fairy tale sanctuary hailed as the inspiration for Disney's iconic castle—Neuschwanstein Castle! Just an hour's drive from Munich, through the misty Alps, the pristine white spires of the castle emerge atop the mountain, as if stepping into the magical world of "Swan Lake." Inside the castle, every detail takes your breath away: the **red corridor** adorned with luxurious carpets, the **King's bedroom** featuring swan-shaped faucets and a Gothic-style wooden bed (reportedly crafted by 14 artisans over two years), and even the mosaic floor inlaid with star and moon patterns—all showcasing King Ludwig II's obsession with Wagner's operas. Standing on the balcony, you can gaze out at the Alpine lakes and the old Hohenschwangau Castle, blurring the lines between reality and fairy tale. The most poignant aspect is the king's fate—mysteriously drowning at the age of 41, leaving this dream castle unfinished. Today, the castle is bustling with tourists, but walking alone through its empty corridors, you can still feel the solitude and romance. If you ever visit Germany, don't miss this "dream built with gold coins"!