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Castle · Matsuyama, Ehime
Matsuyama Castle
One of the twelve Japanese castles with an original main keep, on top of Mount Katsuyama in the city center; you can reach it by ropeway or gondola and see the Inland Sea from above.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
A look at the place
Matsuyama Castle in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
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Discover
About Matsuyama Castle
Matsuyama Castle occupies the top of Mount Katsuyama, 132 meters high, in the city center. Construction began in 1602 by Kato Yoshiaki and was completed over more than twenty years. The current main keep was rebuilt in 1854 after lightning destroyed the previous one, and it is among the few keeps predating the Meiji era that have survived intact to the present day.
The complex is large and intricate, with several smaller turrets, gates and stone walls on layered levels connected by zigzag paths. Many of the structures are original and are designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan. The turrets are linked by corridors and courtyards, designed to slow any enemy attempting to reach the summit.
Inside the main keep, steep wooden stairs lead up through floors displaying armor, swords and domain documents. From the top floor, the view spans the city, Shikoku’s mountains and the Inland Sea with its islands. In the main courtyard, the Honmaru, there is a lawn with cherry trees and a teahouse.
The hill can be climbed on foot via trails of about 20 minutes, or by ropeway and gondola, side by side, from Ropeway Street. The western slope houses the Ninomaru Garden, built over the ruins of the lord’s residence, with ponds outlining the layout of the former rooms.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1.5 to 2 hours, including the climb and the main keep.
Best time
Early, when the Inland Sea usually appears clearer from the top. The courtyard cherry trees typically bloom from late March to early April. Check the ropeway and keep opening hours.
How to get there
From downtown, walk along Ropeway Street to the ropeway and gondola station, about 5 minutes from the Okaido tram stop. There are also walking trails from downtown and from Ninomaru Garden.
Tip
Ascend by gondola, a single-cabin ride, to see the city outdoors, and descend on foot along the western slope to Ninomaru Garden.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Matsuyama Castle
Is Matsuyama Castle original?
Yes. The tower from 1854 predates the Meiji era and was never rebuilt in concrete, which places it among the twelve original castles in the country.
How do you go up Matsuyama Castle?
By ropeway or chairlift from Ropeway Street, or on foot via trails of about 20 minutes. From the top of the ropeways there is still about a 10-minute walk to the tower.
How long does a visit to the castle take?
About 2 hours, including the ascent, the courtyards and the main tower.
What is the Ninomaru garden?
It is a garden on the western slope of the hill, over the ruins of the former lord’s residence, with water mirrors that outline the floor plan of the rooms.
Beyond the guide
