TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Bitchu Matsuyama Castle is a mountain castle located in Takahashi City, Okayama Prefecture, and is known as one of Japan's 12 remaining castle towers. Built on a mountaintop at an altitude of approximately 430m, it is famous as the "castle with the highest surviving castle tower in Japan," and much of the castle remains from the Edo period.
Its distinctive features are its small but tasteful wooden castle tower, steep stone walls and enclosures, and the view of the castle town and mountains that spread out below. Its appearance floating in a sea of clouds (a "castle in the sky" kind of scenery), combined with the cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn leaves in autumn, is particularly attractive, making it popular with photography enthusiasts and history buffs.
Highlights
- Castle tower (existing castle tower): Made of wood, it has a stately exterior and interior design, retaining the atmosphere of the Edo period.
- Stone walls and enclosures: The enclosures and sturdy stonework that line the summit are also impressive. The view from the path leading up to the castle is also worth seeing.
- Sea of clouds (spot for viewing sea of clouds): If the conditions are right, you can see the fantastic sight of the castle floating above the clouds in the early morning.
- Strolling around the castle town: You can also enjoy descending from the castle tower and exploring the old streets, shops, and museums of the castle town.
- Seasonal scenery: Cherry blossoms (spring), young leaves (early summer), autumn leaves (autumn), etc. Each season has a different look.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Bitchu Takahashi Station (Bicchu Takahashi Station) - Access point from the Okayama and Kurashiki areas. *The station name is written as "Bicchu Takahashi Station."
- Transportation from the station:
- Taxi: Approximately 10-15 minutes from the station to the foot of the castle (entrance to the castle) (depending on road conditions).
- Bus: Tourist shuttles may operate depending on the season and day of the week, so please check Takahashi City's tourist information before visiting.
- Walking: If you walk up the path from the base of the mountain to the castle, you will encounter steep slopes and stone steps. The time required to climb will depend on your physical strength and the route you take, but it should take approximately 20 to 40 minutes.
- By car: Accessible by car from the Chugoku Expressway, Matsuyama direction. There are paid and free parking lots at the base of the mountain, but they may be full during peak hours.
- Note: As the castle is located on top of a mountain, you will need to walk up to the castle tower. Ropeways and other such facilities are often not permanently in operation, so be sure to check in advance whether they are running.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Castle tower and main attractions only: 1 to 1.5 hours (including walking time up and down).
- Sightseeing including a stroll around the castle town and a visit to the museum: Half a day (2-3 hours).
- If you are visiting early in the morning to view the sea of clouds and take photos: Early morning to mid-morning (2-4 hours including photography time).
Nearby spots
- Castle town's old streets and shopping district: Enjoy historic houses, souvenir shops, and restaurants.
- Takahashi City Museum and Folklore Museum: A facility where you can learn about the history and folklore of the region (please check opening times).
- Nearby nature walks: We recommend combining your visit with hiking to nearby mountains and observation decks.
- Within day trip distance: If you drive to Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter or Okayama city, it can also be used as a base for day trips.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Clothing and equipment for climbing the castle: There are many stone steps and mountain paths, and some areas are slippery, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes (trekking shoes, etc.) and clothing that is easy to move in.
- Physical fitness and elevation change: The climb to the summit requires physical fitness. Elderly people and those with small children should not push themselves too hard.
- Viewing the sea of clouds and early mornings requires good weather conditions early in the morning (before dawn to early morning), and there is a risk of cold weather or bad weather. Please be sure to take measures to protect yourself from the cold and ensure your safety.
- Crowds: The area gets crowded during peak tourist seasons (cherry blossom and autumn foliage viewing, consecutive holidays, and sea of cloud viewing season). To avoid crowds, please consider arriving early or visiting on a weekday.
- Check facility and opening hours: Opening hours, admission fees, closing days, shuttle bus schedules, etc. may change depending on the season, so please check the Takahashi City Tourism Association or official website for the latest information in advance.
- Manners: To preserve the historical site, please observe general tourist etiquette, such as not entering restricted areas, taking your trash with you, and observing quietly. The use of drones and other devices may be restricted.
*Actual transport times, operation, admission fees, and opening hours may be subject to change. Please check the official website or Takahashi City tourist information for the latest information before visiting.
