Matsuyama Castle

Matsuyama Castle

Matsuyama Castle (松山城), also known as Kinshu Castle, is a historic castle located in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the twelve original castles in Japan that have survived to the present day, with its main keep largely remaining in its original form. The castle is also designated as a National Treasure of Japan, highlighting its historical and cultural significance.

The castle was originally built in 1603 by a local lord named Kato Yoshiaki, but was later taken over by the Matsudaira clan, who ruled the Matsuyama Domain until the Meiji Restoration in 1868. The castle has undergone several renovations and restorations throughout its history, with the current main keep dating back to 1854.

The castle is perched atop Mount Katsuyama, a hill that offers breathtaking views of the city of Matsuyama and the Seto Inland Sea. Visitors can explore the castle’s many levels, including various exhibits and displays showcasing the castle’s history, the history of the region, and the lives of the samurai who once resided there. The castle grounds also feature a beautiful Japanese garden, Ninomaru Garden, which is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring.

One of the unique features of Matsuyama Castle is the challenging climb to the top, which involves navigating a series of steep slopes, stone steps, and narrow passageways. However, visitors who make it to the top are rewarded with panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside, making the effort well worth it. Alternatively, visitors can take a ropeway or chairlift to reach the castle grounds more easily.

Getting there

By Tram

From JR Matsuyama Station:

  • Take the City Tram towards Dogo Hotspring
  • Get off at Okaido Station
  • 5-minute walk from the station to the castle
  • Journey time: Approximately 10 minutes

By Car

  • About 20 minutes drive from Matsuyama IC

By Ropeway or Chairlift

Ropeway (Cable Car):

  • Operating hours: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (until 6:00 PM in August, until 5:00 PM in December-January)
  • Duration: 3 minutes one-way
  • Cost: 270 yen one-way, 520 yen round-trip for adults

Chairlift:

  • Operating hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Duration: 6 minutes one-way
  • Cost: Same as ropeway
  • Note: Suspended during rainy weather

Details

HoursFebruary to July / 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
August / 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
September to November / 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
December to January / 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
AdmissionAdults: 520 yen
Elementary school students: 160 yen
Phone+81 89-921-4873
Address1 Marunouchi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0008
Official Websitehttps://www.matsuyamajo.jp/en/