Matsuyama Castle: One of 12 Surviving Original Keeps - Ehime's Representative Mountain Castle

Matsuyama Castle: A Famous Castle of the 12 Surviving Original Keeps with Connected Keeps

Matsuyama Castle, built on Katsuyama (132 meters elevation) in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, is a famous castle whose construction was started by Kato Yoshiaki in 1602 and took approximately 60 years to complete. One of the 12 surviving Edo-period constructed keeps, its connected keep system (structure of main keep, large keep, small keep, and connecting corridors) is a rare format even domestically.

Views from the Keep

Matsuyama city, the Matsuyama Plain, and the Seto Inland Sea can be viewed at a glance from the main enclosure grounds and keep. On clear days, the mountains of distant Hiroshima and Okayama can sometimes also be seen. The Matsuyama scenery at dusk is particularly beautiful, with the nighttime illumination also fantastical.

Ropeway and Lift Access

The castle can be reached by ropeway or lift from near the "Prefectural Budokan" at the base (approximately 3–5 minutes one way). Castle approach paths for walking up from the base to the keep are also maintained, allowing ascending while strolling.

Combination with Matsuyama Sightseeing

Since Dogo Onsen is within walking distance from Matsuyama Castle, the "Matsuyama Standard Sightseeing Course" combining both is popular. The Clouds Above the Hill Museum is also nearby.

Access

Accessible from JR Matsuyama Station or Iyotetsu Okaido Station by foot or city tram. Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Okaido Station to the ropeway boarding point.