[Okayama] Bitchu Matsuyama Castle - the only mountain castle with a remaining castle tower

#JapanTravelMemories Bicchu Matsuyama Castle is a Japanese mountain castle located in Takahashi City, Okayama Prefecture, and is one of the few castles with a surviving castle tower. Its greatest feature is that it is a "mountain castle" located at an altitude of 430 meters above sea level, and it is also known as the highest surviving castle tower in Japan. For this reason, it is also known as "Takahashi Castle". The history of Bitchu Matsuyama Castle dates back to the Kamakura period, when it was first built by the local powerful Akiba clan, and then during the Sengoku period, it passed into the hands of many daimyo, including the Mori clan and the Ukita clan. During the Edo period, the Ikeda clan and the Ishikawa clan became the castle owners, and they established the castle as a modern castle. In particular, the castle tower and two-tiered turret that remain today were rebuilt during the Edo period and are designated as important cultural properties. Another attraction of Bitchu Matsuyama Castle is that it is known as a "castle floating in a sea of ​​clouds". In the early morning from autumn to winter, when the conditions are right, the castle is enveloped in a sea of ​​clouds, creating a fantastic sight as if it were floating in the air. This "Bitchu Matsuyama Castle floating in the sea of ​​clouds" is a very popular moment for photography enthusiasts and tourists. In addition, the castle is surrounded by abundant nature, and you can enjoy the scenery of each season. You can enjoy different beauty in every season, such as cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves, and snowy scenery in winter. You can get to Bitchu Matsuyama Castle by walking up the mountain path from the foot of the mountain, or by taking a shuttle bus halfway up. The magnificent castle tower that appears at the end of the steep mountain path is a spot that gives you a sense of accomplishment. If you are interested in history and castles, Bitchu Matsuyama Castle is a must-visit place. When you visit Okayama Prefecture, why not spend a special time at this beautiful mountain castle, feeling the history and nature of Japan?