Matsuyama Castle

Overview

Matsuyama Castle, also known as Hirayama Castle, is a castle located in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the few original castles remaining in Japan and offers panoramic views of the city.

One of the twelve original castles in Japan, offering historical insight and panoramic views.

Castle Historical Site

Location

Address

1 Marunouchi, Matsuyama, Japan

Neighborhood: Central Matsuyama

Coordinates

33.840600, 132.761900

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

1,000 JPY

Children

500 JPY (ages 6-15)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, October-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• cherry blossoms
• garden tours

summer

hot and humid

• extended hours
• summer events

autumn

cool and pleasant

• autumn foliage
• cooler weather

winter

cold, occasional snow

• holiday lights
• winter events

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets online in advance
Bring ID for ticket purchases
Check the weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

ID water bottle comfortable shoes printed or digital tickets

seasonal

jacket or umbrella sunhat and sunglasses in summer

not allowed

large bags or backpacks professional cameras with tripods drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate, due to stairs and walking

• stairs and steep paths
• uneven surfaces

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit/debit cards

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Typical Costs

entry 1,000 JPY

parking 500 JPY

food 800-1500 JPY

souvenirs 500-3000 JPY

Dress Code

casual, comfortable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate attire, walking shoes or sneakers, inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• at least a week in advance
• official website or authorized ticket vendors
• 24 hours in advance for a full refund
• available for online ticket purchases

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Matsuyama Castle Official Guide

Size: 45 MB

Features: interactive map, audio guide, ticket purchase, event information, historical facts

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Ropeway station

Charging Stations: Visitor center and cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Matsuyama Airport (MYJ)

Distance: 6 km

Travel Time: 15-20 minutes

taxi

2,000-2,500 JPY 15-20 min

public_transport

500 JPY 30-40 min

From City Center

Distance: 1.5 km

walking

20-25 min

local_bus

200-220 JPY 10-15 min

taxi

800-1,000 JPY 5-10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Matsuyama Castle is a symbol of the city's history and offers a peaceful retreat from urban life

Historical Significance: The castle was built in 1603 by Kato Yoshimasa and played a significant role in the history of Ehime Prefecture and Japan

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning for a short period
Best food and local specialties can be found at the nearby Dogo Onsen
The castle is beautifully illuminated during special events and festivals

Local Recommendations

• Try local specialties like Matsuyama castella and Dogo onsen
• Visit the nearby Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot springs
• Ask for a guide or audio guide to learn more about the castle's history

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Kon'nichiwa

thank_you Arigato

where_is Doko desu ka

how_much Ikura desu ka

beautiful Kirei desu

ticket Kippu

Guide Languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main keep (donjon) of Matsuyama Castle

Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for soft light

Tips: Capture the castle from various angles, including the ropeway station

Result: Impressive shots of the castle's architecture and panoramic views of Matsuyama

#matsuyamacastle #japanesecastle #matsuyama #ehime #traveljapan

Matsuyama Castle Ropeway

Best Time: Golden hour or sunset

Tips: Photograph the castle from the ropeway or the station for unique perspectives

Result: Stunning aerial views of the castle and surroundings

#matsuyamacastleropeway #castleviews #aerialview #matsuyama

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, castle grounds, and designated photography spots

prohibited areas indoor exhibits, restricted areas, and sensitive historical sites

flash photography restricted in indoor areas, allowed outdoors

commercial photography permit required for commercial use

drone policy prohibited without special permission

tripod policy restricted, small tripods allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks allowed in outdoor areas

Nearby Attractions

Dogo Onsen

Distance: 2 km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Hot Spring Resort

Matsuyama City Museum of History and Culture

Distance: 1 km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Museum

Matsuyama Central Park

Distance: 800 m

Walking: 10 min

Type: Park

Reviews

4.5

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book tickets online to skip the line"
"Visit early morning for a peaceful experience"
"Don't miss the panoramic views from the castle's observatory tower"
"Combine your visit with a trip to Dogo Onsen"

Contact Information

+81 89-921-4411

info@matsuyamajyo.com

http://www.matsuyamajyo.com

Social Media

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