Okayama Scenic Spot | Castle in the Sky. Japan's only mountain castle with a castle tower - Bitchu Matsuyama Castle (Koryo Castle)

#castle Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, also known as Takahashi Castle, is located at the foot of a mountain in Takahashi City, Okayama Prefecture. It is a designated historic site in Japan and one of the 100 famous castles in Japan. Bitchu Matsuyama Castle was built in 1240 (Kamakura period) and is one of the 12 remaining castle towers in Japan. Its wooden tower, double-story turrets and earthen walls are listed as important cultural properties. It is 430m above sea level and has been a fortress since ancient times. In the past, it was specially built on the mountain to defend against enemies and to prevent them from being attacked. On the trail leading to the castle tower, the observation platform that was used as a relay station in the past is preserved. There is no trail built along the entire mountain road, and the irregular stone steps show the long historical atmosphere. Above the Otemon Gate is the castle tower. The solid granite of Mount Woniu has successfully defended it from enemy attacks for hundreds of years. The space of Bitchu Matsuyama Castle is maintained as it was in the past. Unlike other castle towers that were rebuilt after fire, weapons and books are displayed. The stairs leading to the castle tower are very steep. The only way to take photos of the "Castle in the Sky" scene that is often seen on Okayama Prefecture's tourism posters is to drive yourself. If you just want to visit Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, you can take the JR limited express to Bitchu Takahashi Station, then take a tourist shared taxi for about 15 minutes. Another interesting thing is that the lord of Bitchu Matsuyama Castle was a cat named "Sanjuro" (さんじゅーろー), who was very popular.