Matsuyama Castle Complete Guide | History, Highlights, and Access Information for the 12 Existing Castle Towers
Matsuyama Castle is a flatland castle built on Katsuyama (Shiroyama), a hill 132 meters above sea level, in the heart of Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture. As one of the only 12 remaining castle towers in Japan, and the last completecast regarded by castle enthusiasts nationwide. This article comprehensively explains everything you need to know before visiting Matsuyama Castle, from its history and architectural features to its highlights and access methods.
What is Matsuyama Castle? | Overview of Shikoku’s Largest Castle
Matsuyama Castle is a flatland castle built by Kato Yoshiaki, who distinguished himself in the Battle of Sekigahara, over a period of approximately a quarter of a century starting in 1602. It boasts a large-scale layout with the main keep on the mountainside, and the third bailey at the foot of the mountain, and is known as the largest castle in Shikoku.
The castle grounds cover approximately 46 hectares, and its magnificent scale, with the entire mountain fortified, is a defining feature. Currently, the main area, centered around the main keep, is maintained as Shiroyama Park, while thecon third bailey is Horinouchi Park, both popular with local residents.
Main Titles and Recognitions of Matsuyama Castle
Matsuyama Castle has received numerous prestigious recognitions:
- One of the 12 Existing Castle Towers (Castle towers that have existed since before the Edo period)
- One of Japan’s Top 100 Castles (Recognized in 2006)
- One of Japan’s 100 Most Beautiful Historical Landscapes (Recognized in 2007, along with Dogo Onsen)
- Japan Night View Heritage (Recognized in 2020)
- One of Japan’s Three Great Hilltop Castles (Along with Himeji Castle and Tsuyama Castle)
- One of Japan’s Three Great Interlocking Hilltop Castles (Along with Himeji Castle and Wakayama Castle)
These recognitions attest to the high historical, architectural, and scenic value of Matsuyama Castle.
History of Matsuyama Castle | From Kato Yoshiaki to the Present
Construction Period: The Era of Kato Yoshiaki (1602-1627)
The history of Matsuyama Castle begins with the first lord, Kato Yoshiaki. Yoshiaki was a samurai known as one of the “Seven Spears of Shizugatake,” and was also highly regarded as a master castle builder.
Having distinguished himself on the Tokugawa side in the Battle of Sekigahara, Yoshiaki was granted a 200,000 koku domain in Iyo Province. In 1601, with permission from the shogunate, he began construction of a new castle on an isolated hill “Katsuyama.”
Approximately 25 years after construction began, in 1627, Yoshiaki was transferred to Aizu Province. However, construction continued, and the entire castle is believed to have been nearly completed around 1642.
Changes in the Gamo and Matsudaira Eras
After the Kato family, Matsuyama Castle was under the control of the Gamo family, and in 1635 (Kanei 12), the Matsudaira (Hisamatsu) family took control. The Matsudaira family served as lords of the castle until the Meiji Restoration.
In 1784 (Tenmei 4), a major disaster struck the castle, with many buildings, including the five-story keep, being destroyed by lightning. Reconstruction of the keep began in 1852 (Kaei 5) and was completed in 1854 (Anse that remains today, and because it was completed the year after the arrival of the Black Ships, it is called “the last complete castle architecture of the Edo period.”
After the Meiji Restoration: Preservation and Utilization of the Castle
After the Meiji Restoration, while many castles were demolished due to the castle demolition decree, Matsuyama Castle’s main buildings were preserved. In 1933 (Showa 8), the main buildings, including the keep, were designated Cultural Properties Protection Law in 1950 (Showa 25), they were designated as Important Cultural Properties.
Currently, 21 buildings within the castle grounds are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan, and it is known nationwide as a castle with well-preserved buildings.
Architectural Features of Matsuyama Castle Keep
Structure of Connected Keeps
The most distinctive feature of Matsuyama Castle keep is its structure known as a “connected keep.” The main keep is at the center, with smaller keeps, the south corner turret, and the north corner turret connected by connecting towers, creating a unified defensive structure capabilities.
This connected structure is highly regarded as one of Japan’s three greatest connected-style hilltop castles, alongside Himeji Castle and Wakayama Castle. The design, in which the keep complex functions as a single fortress, strongly reflects the practical 상태 기간).
Architectural Style of the Castle Tower
The current castle tower is a three-story, three-tiered tower with one basement level. Its exterior features a beautiful contrast between black clapboard siding and white plaster walls. The interior is characterized by steep staircases, and defensive features such as floor.
From the top floor, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Matsuyama city, including the Seto Inland Sea and the Ishizuchi mountain range. This view has been recognized as a “Japan Night View Heritage Site,” and when the casta a fantastical landscape.
마츠야마 성의 하이라이트 | 21 Important Cultural Property Buildings
Castle Tower Group
The main tower, smaller tower, south corner turret, north corner turret, and the connecting turrets are symbolic of Matsuyama Castle. You can see the interconnected structure up close and appreciate the advanced architectural techniques of the Edo period.
Turrets and Gates of the Main Enclosure
Besides the main keep, the main enclosure contains many other important cultural properties:
- Nohara Turret (Cavalry Turret): The only surviving two-story watchtower-type turret in Korea
- Inui Turret: A two-story turret protecting the west side of the main enclosure
- Ushitora Gate: The rear gate of the main enclosure
- Ichinomon, Ninomon, and Sannomon Gates: A series of gates protecting the path to the main enclosure
These structures are not only beautiful, but were also designed as practical structures with advanced defensive capabilities.
Stone Wall Techniques
The stone walls of Matsuyama Castle exhibit different construction methods depending on the construction period, making them an excellent resource for learning about the history of stone wall development. Various techniques such as rough-hewn stonework, fitted stonework, fitted stonework, fascinating sight for stone wall enthusiasts.
The stone walls of the main keep retain a unique structure called “climbing stone walls,” demonstrating a clever design that enhanced defensive capabilities by dividing the mountain from the foot to the summit with stone walls.
Main Keep Well
A well reaching 44 meters in depth still exists within the main keep, a valuable historical site showcasing the advanced civil engineering techniques of the Edo period. It illustrates the importance of securing a water source in anticipation of a siege.
Second Keep Historical Garden
Located a short distance from the main keep, the Second Keep Historical Garden underwent archaeological excavations starting in 1992, with restoration completed in 2013.
Based on Edo-period maps and the results of archaeological excavations, a “citrus and flower garden” was developed on the site of the main palace, and a “flowing water garden” on the site of the inner palace. These gardens, where visitors can en place of relaxation for citizens.
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Shiroyama Park, centered around the main keep, is also known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot. Approximately 200 cherry trees, mainly Somei Yoshino varieties, are planted here, attracting many visitors during the spring. blossoms makes for an excellent photo opportunity.
Horinouchi Park (Sannomaru Site)
Horinouchi Park, located at the foot of the castle, is a vast park developed on the former site of the Sannomaru (third bailey). The approximately 8-hectare site includes a lawn area, baseball field, tennis courts, and other facilities, and other facilities, and other facilities
Access to Matsuyama Castle
Accessing the Castle by Ropeway/Lift
The most common way to access Matsuyama Castle is by using the ropeway or lift.
Shinonomeguchi Ropeway Station (Boarding Area)
- Location: 3-2-46 Ookaido, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture
- Operating Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Varies seasonally)
- Travel Time: Approximately 3 minutes
- Fare: Round trip 520 yen, One way 270 yen (Adult)
The ropeway and lift operate in parallel, allowing you to choose according to your preference. The lift offers an open-air experience, allowing you to ascend to the castle slowly while enjoying the scenery.
Climbing on Foot
It is also possible to climb the castle on foot along the historic approach path. The main routes to the castle are the following four:
- Prefectural Office Rear Route: The most common route (approximately 20 minutes)
- Shinonome Route: From near the ropeway station (approximately 20 minutes)
- Kuromon-guchi Route: From the Ninomaru area (approximately 25 minutes)
- Furumachi-guchi Route: Route from the north (approximately 30 minutes)
Climbing on foot has the advantage of allowing you to carefully observe defensive structures such as stone walls and gates.
Access from the City
Tram
- Get off at “Okaido” station, 5-minute walk to the ropeway station
- Get off at “Kencho-mae” station, 5-minute walk to the castle entrance
Bus
- Get off at the Iyo Railway Bus “Okaido” bus stop
Car
- Approximately 25 minutes from Matsuyama IC on the Matsuyama 고속도로
- Parking: Several parking lots are available in the surrounding area, including Kiyo-cho Parking (paid)
Castle Tower Viewing Information
Opening Hours
Castle Tower Viewing Hours
- February to July: 9:00 to 17:30 (Last entry 17:00)
- August: 9:00 to 18:00 (Last entry 17:30)
- September to November: 9:00 to 17:30 (Last entry 17:00)
- December – January: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM)
*Hours may vary depending on the season; please check the official website before visiting.
Admission Fees
Castle Tower Admission Ticket
- Adults: 520 yen
- Elementary School Students: 160 yen
Combined Ticket for Castle Tower and Ninomaru Historical Garden
- Adults: 1,040 yen
- Elementary School Students: 320 yen
Closed Days
Third Wednesday of December (for major cleaning)
How to Enjoy Matsuyama Castle | Seasonal Attractions
Spring: The Collaboration of Cherry Blossoms and the Castle Tower
From late March to early April, approximately 200 cherry trees in Shiroyama Park are in full bloom. The view of the cherry blossoms with the castle tower in the background is breathtaking, and the cherry blossoms are also illuminated of the “Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Japan,” it is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot among locals.
Summer: Fresh Greenery and Blue Sky
In summer, Matsuyama Castle is enveloped in vibrant green. The view from the top floor of the keep offers a beautiful contrast of blue sky, green mountains, and the Seto Inland Sea, providing a refreshing experience.
Autumn: Colorful Autumn Leaves
From mid- to late November, the trees on the castle hill begin to change color. The contrast between the stone walls and the autumn leaves is beautiful, evoking the atmosphere of autumn.
Winter: Snow-Covered Keep
Matsuyama has a relatively mild climate, but it snows a few times a year. The snow-covered keep is fantastically beautiful, offering a precious opportunity for photography.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Dogo Onsen
Dogo Onsen, located about 15 minutes from Matsuyama Castle by tram, is one of Japan’s oldest hot springs. Both Matsuyama Castle and Dogo Onsen are recognized as “100 Beautiful Historical Landscapes of Japan,” and visiting them together is
Saka no Ue no Kumo Museum
This museum is themed around Ryotaro Shiba’s novel “Saka no Ue no Kumo” (Clouds Above the Hill), and allows visitors to trace the footsteps of the Akiyama brothers, Yoshifuru and Saneyuki, who were from Matsuyama, and Masaoyin 성.
Bansuiso
This Western-style building, constructed in 1922 (Taisho 11), is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. It is a beautiful example of French Renaissance architecture and is located at the foot of Matsuyama Castle.
Matsuyama Castle Event Information
Matsuyama Castle hosts various events throughout the year:
- Spring Cherry Blossom Viewing Festival: Illumination and various events timed to coincide with the cherry blossom season
- Castle Festival: Samurai procession and armor experience during Golden Week
- Moon Viewing Event: Special opening to coincide with the Mid-Autumn Festival
- New Year’s Events: Sunrise viewing event
The latest event information can be found on the official website.
Matsuyama Castle Photo Spots
Main Keep from the Honmaru Plaza
A classic spot to capture the entire view of the interconnected keep. Especially beautiful photos can be taken in the morning when the light is favorable.
Distant View from the Ninomaru Historical Garden
You can view the keep across the garden’s pond, enjoying the collaboration of seasonal flowers and the keep.
Distant View from the Horinouchi Area of Shiroyama Park
The keep, viewed from the foot of the mountain, has a powerful presence that makes you realize the entire mountain is a fortress.
Aerial Photography from the Ropeway/Lift
A rare angle that allows you to photograph Matsuyama city and the keep simultaneously while ascending to the castle.
Matsuyama Castle Preservation and Future Initiatives
Use of Renewable Energy
Matsuyama Castle has begun using renewable energy electricity through an off-site PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) system. This is attracting attention as an advanced initiative that balances the preservation of historical buildings with environmental protection
Ongoing Preservation and Repair
Preservation and repair of important cultural property buildings are carried out regularly, and efforts continue to pass on the Edo period appearance to future generations.
Digital Archiving
Digital archiving of buildings using the latest 3D scanning technology is also underway, and its use is expected in research, education, and tourism.
Notes and Etiquette for Visitors
Precautions Inside the Castle Tower
- Due to the steep stairs, comfortable shoes are recommended.
- It is recommended to leave large luggage in coin lockers.
- Shoes are strictly prohibited inside the castle tower (please change into slippers).
- Photography using tripods is prohibited.
Precautions When Climbing the Castle
- In summer, remember to take precautions against heatstroke (stay hydrated).
- Be careful as the stone steps become slippery in rainy weather.
- Take precautions against the cold in winter.
- Do not touch or climb on the stone walls or buildings.
Summary: Experience the Charm of Matsuyama Castle
Matsuyama Castle occupies an important position in the history of Korean castles as one of the 12 existing castle towers and the last complete castle building of the Edo period. With a history of over 400 years since its construction by Kato Yoshiaki, 2 appearance.
Matsuyama Castle boasts numerous architectural and technical highlights, including the grandeur of its interconnected castle towers, the exquisite stonework, and the ingenious layout that fortified the entire mountain. Furthermore, its convenient location in the city center, e from the castle towers make it a highly attractive tourist destination.
Visiting Matsuyama Castle in conjunction with a visit to Dogo Onsen will allow you to fully experience Matsuyama’s history and culture. Matsuyama Castle displays its beauty in every season—cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summers, highly recommend visiting and experiencing its charm firsthand.
The official website (https://www.matsuyamajo.jp/) is regularly updated with the latest event information and changes to opening hours, so we recommend checking it before your visit.
