MATSUYAMA CASTLE

Matsuyama Castle was built in the Edo period in 1602 and took about 25 years to complete. This beautiful place in Japan has multiple levels for an immersive experience. The top floor gives you a glimpse of the Seto Inland Sea and Matsuyama-heiya Plain. Walk to the Honmaru from Ninomaru; you will find a climbing stone wall (nobori-ishigaki). It was used as a defence mechanism in Wa-jō.

History is not the only glorious thing here. You will find heartwarming cherry trees and long gardens at the Matsuyama Castle. These places make the palace a perfect spot to spend time with the family or partner. You will find blueprints, armour, and weapon exhibitions within the corridors. This is where you will learn about Japan's history and the feuds that took place over the years. Visit the Matsuyama Castle and explore the Ninomaru Historical Garden. You can observe a layout of the offices and residences of the lord here.

Highlights

• Immerse yourself in the bird’s eye view of the Matsuyama Castle and Matsuyama while witnessing the magic of a steep hill and calm surroundings.
• Visit during March and April when the trees are in full bloom and more than 200 cherry flowers to bring freshness to the day.
• Reach Mount Katsuyama through a chairlift or ropeway; two of the most common ways of crossing the steep slopes of the age-old castle.
• Explore the many historical buildings within the castle and learn about Feudal Japan through construction methods, and haiku poetry,
• Walk around the gorgeous Shiroyama Park which has sprawling play areas for kids and groomed lawns for adults to spend some quality time.

How To Reach

1. By Car: Matsuyama Castle is 1 km from the Matsuyama City Centre. It will take approximately 5 minutes to reach by car.

2. By Train: Matsuyama Castle is 1.7 km from the Matsuyama JR Station and takes about 10 minutes. Take the #5 tram from the station to reach the Okaido stop which is at a 5-minute walking distance from the castle.

3. By Walk: Shiroyama Park and Ninomaru Historical Gardens are at the base of the Matsuyama Castle and take about 15 minutes on foot.

Best Time To Visit

Matsuyama Castle is open throughout the year for tourists and is closed on the 3rd Wednesday of December.

1. Best Season: The best time to visit Matsuyama Castle is in late March and early April when cherry trees are in full bloom.

2. Best Day of the Week: Visit during weekdays as the crowd is comparatively low and you can explore everything peacefully.

3. Best Time of the Day: Visit in the morning around 9 a.m. when the castle gates open as the place is not overcrowded.

Other Essential Information

• Wear comfortable shoes as there is going to be a long walk and steep stairs throughout the castle.
• Get a wholesome view of the castle by visiting late afternoon or early morning as the crowd is less.
• All vendors might not take credit cards so it is advisable to carry cash for entrance fees and buying souvenirs.
• Take 2 to 3 hours out of your schedule to explore the entire castle and browse through its many exhibits.
• Ascent to the castle easily and get a beautiful view of the mountains by riding on the chair lift or ropeway.