Matsuyama Castle
◎ One of only 12 castles in Japan with an original keep dating back to the Edo period
As one of the 12 remaining castles in Japan with an original Edo-period keep, it is also designated as one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles. Perched atop a hill, the keep offers panoramic views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea. Construction was initiated by Kato Yoshiaki. At the Matsuyama Castle Ninomaru Historical Garden, performances such as Takigino (open-air torchlight Noh), which was beloved by the feudal lords, are held, and the gardens bustle with beauty throughout the four seasons.
◎ Reach the summit via ropeway or chairlift
Standing on a hill, the castle keep provides a sweeping view of the city and the Seto Inland Sea. It is a 5-minute walk from the Iyo Railway “Okaido” tram stop, followed by a 3-minute ropeway ride or a 6-minute chairlift ride. You can also experience the charm of Matsuyama’s sightseeing spots aboard the retro Botchan Train, a restored Meiji-era steam locomotive that runs through the city.
