Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.
A hilltop castle with towering stone walls, also known for its cherry blossoms.
Its predecessor was Tsuruyama Castle, built by Yamana Tadamasa in 1441 and later abandoned during the Onin and Bunmei Wars. Mori Tadamasa, the younger brother of Mori Ranmaru, who was known as a close aide to Oda Nobunaga, later renamed Tsuruyama as Tsuyama and began constructing a new castle. Completed over 13 years beginning in 1604, this magnificent castle is considered one of Japan's three great hilltop castles.
When first built, the castle had a five-story keep in the main enclosure, surrounded by the second and third enclosures. It is said to have contained more than 80 structures, including palaces, turrets, and gates. Although the buildings were demolished following the Meiji government's Castle Abolition Order, the impressive stone walls, which rise as high as 10 meters, date back to the castle's original construction.
Bitchu Turret, the largest turret at Tsuyama Castle and said to have been second only to the main keep in prominence, was reconstructed as part of a project commemorating the castle's 400th anniversary. Unusually for a turret, it contains tatami-floored rooms. Because it was connected to the main palace by a corridor, it is believed to have been used as part of the palace. The area around the stone foundation where the keep once stood offers panoramic views of central Tsuyama.
The castle ruins and surrounding grounds have been developed into Kakuzan Park, which is also known for its approximately 1,000 cherry trees. During cherry blossom season, visitors can view the illuminated blossoms from atop the stone walls.
Tsuyama Castle in fall
Fall foliage stands out against the stone walls
Numerous cherry trees also grow atop the castle walls
Cherry trees in full bloom
Bitchu Turret
Some reviews are AI-translated.
Tsuyama Castle is a hirayama-style castle with towering stone walls and is also a well-known cherry blossom viewing spot in Okayama. Unfortunately, I visited in the summer and missed the season when the castle grounds are covered in cherry blossoms, but seen from a different perspective, it still has its own unique charm.
I think the most interesting thing about Tsuyama Castle is that it’s perfect for people who enjoy “climbing up high.” Many stone stairways remain throughout the castle ruins, allowing you to keep making your way upward and look out over the Tsuyama cityscape from different heights. The view is a little different from every spot.
Although I missed cherry blossom season, the blooming azaleas still added plenty of color to the old stone walls. It also wasn’t crowded, and there was plenty of shade, so walking around in the summer wasn’t too difficult.
Tsuyama Castle doesn’t have a huge castle keep, and the admission fee is relatively affordable, but you can still get a strong sense of the history of the castle ruins. If you happen to be in Tsuyama, I highly recommend setting aside some time to walk around here, taking your time climbing and looking while enjoying a leisurely stroll through the castle ruins.
This is a famous spot for cherry blossom viewing. It's definitely worth coming here during sakura season!
Compared to the heavy beauty of Matsuyama Castle with its black walls and white eaves, I actually prefer Tsuyama Castle's white buildings accented by just a touch of black on the eaves. That lighter, more delicate look is really captivating!
The cherry blossoms here are super dense and plentiful. The whole area turns into a breathtaking sea of flowers. At night, you can enjoy the illuminated cherry blossoms too. It's packed with people all day long who come to see the sakura.
![[Okayama Travel Guide] Enjoy Its Charms with a Recommended Model Course & Useful Travel Tips!](https://static.gltjp.com/glt/data/article/21000/20682/20240422_155559_6646ecb9_w640.webp)
