Matsuyama Castle
2002 is the 400th anniversary of the castle.
The construction began in 1602 and was completed in 1627. This castle is one of the three famous and large - multiple-wing castles in Japan. The others are Himeji Castle and Wakayama Castle, both near Osaka. The castle building was destroyed by fire several times. However, when it was reconstructed in 1854, great care was taken to use traditional carpentry techniques and materials. Many of the castle buildings are designated as Important Cultural Properties. It is possible to walk up the hill (132m) to the castle or to go up by rope way or chair lift.
The moat of the castle



SGG club is volunteering English guide for the castle sightseeing.
Some guide members are at the ropeway stop,Choja-ga-naru,
maimly on holidays..
You can ask them for the castle guide

The many features of the castle
Matsuyama castle has many strategic features to defend it
against military attacks.
However, these features were never tested in battle
because the castle was constructed after the unification of the country
that brought 250 years of peace,

Break Corner: Figures in the castle history.
Otatasan
When the castle was built, we, fish mongers, helped the lord by
carrying smaller stones in the wooden tubs on our heads instead
of fish. When you see beautiful stone walls, we hope you would
think of us !
Kato Yoshiaki (1563~1631)
I am the founder of Matsuyama castle.
In 1602 I started the construction of the castle on the top of Katsuyama
which was in the center of the Dogo plain. I changed the name of this land
into Matsuyama and laid the foundation of Matsuyama

Access
From JR Matsuyama station, take streetcar #5 or bus #52 for Dogo Onsen for about 10 minutes and get off at Okaido station. There is a large sign accross the street that will lead you to the ropeway station.
From Matsuyama Airport or Kanko Port as well, take the bus for Dogo Onsen and get off at Okaido station

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