Important Cultural Property (extant tower) / National Historic SiteShikoku

松山城

Matsuyama Castle

城主

Katō Yoshiaki / Matsudaira clan

時代

Construction began in 1602 (Keichō 7)

指定

Important Cultural Property (extant tower) / National Historic Site

所在地

1 Marunouchi, Matsuyama, Ehime

交通方式

About 10 min by streetcar from JR Matsuyama Station to 'Ōkaidō,' then 5 min walk to ropeway

概要

Matsuyama Castle was built by Katō Yoshiaki following his exploits at Sekigahara, featuring a spectacular complex of interconnected towers atop 132-meter Mount Katsuyama. As one of Japan's twelve surviving castle towers, its renritsu-shiki (compound) tower complex rivals Himeji Castle in structural sophistication. With 21 structures designated as Important Cultural Properties, it ranks among Japan's richest surviving castle complexes. The tower offers panoramic views of Matsuyama city and the Seto Inland Sea. Combined with nearby Dōgo Onsen and Matsuyama's literary heritage, it is one of Ehime's premier destinations. A ropeway or chairlift provides access to the summit area.

與刀劍的關聯

Katō Yoshiaki, who built Matsuyama Castle, was one of the Seven Spears of Shizugatake — elite warriors who distinguished themselves under Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Yoshiaki also served as a naval commander during the Korean campaigns. The Hisamatsu-Matsudaira clan later governed the domain as a Tokugawa branch family, frequently receiving fine swords from the shogunate. Iyo Province's Ōyamazumi Shrine on Ōmishima Island possesses an astonishing collection — approximately 40% of all nationally designated armor and swords in Japan are concentrated in this single shrine, donated by warriors seeking victory in battle. The journey from Matsuyama Castle to Ōyamazumi Shrine offers an unparalleled overview of Japanese martial heritage.