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Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle

Okayama, Japan

Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle

Ryuuichi Sugimoto via Google Maps

Standing proudly at an elevation of 430 meters, Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle holds the distinction of being the only mountaintop fortification among Japan's twelve original surviving castles. Dating back to the feudal era, this atmospheric fortress rises dramatically above the misty forested ridges north of town. Visitors who make the rewarding trek up the mountain are treated to authentic period architecture, rugged stone ramparts, and breathtaking panoramic vistas over the Takahashi valley. On autumn mornings, the castle appears to float above a sea of clouds, offering one of western Japan's most unforgettable sights.

  • Historic Site
  • Castle
  • Viewpoint
  • National Treasure

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