Wandering around Ehime Matsuyama Castle: A relaxing time amidst the ancient castle tower, mountains, and sea

As the only one of Japan's Twelve Ancient Castles to retain its original Edo-era appearance, Matsuyama Castle is tucked away atop Katsuyama in Ehime's Matsuyama. My spontaneous, unplanned visit allowed me to appreciate its unique charm—a blend of historical richness and everyday charm.

At the foot of the mountain, small shops selling mandarin oranges are dotted everywhere. Ehime's abundant production of mandarin oranges is juicy and sour, and freshly squeezed juice is a refreshing and refreshing treat, perfect for ascending the stone path. The climb isn't steep, the stone slabs worn smooth by time. Lush vegetation flanks the sides, and birds occasionally chirp. When tired, rest against the Edo-era stone walls. These rough stones are stacked in a staggered pattern, their crevices wedged in moss, feeling moist and cool to the touch. It's hard to imagine how the craftsmen, without the aid of machinery, could have carried the massive stones up the mountain to build the castle. Along the way, I often encountered locals strolling and students visiting, and their friendly greetings made the climb particularly enjoyable.

As you approach the castle tower, the wooden stairs creak under your feet, mingling with a faint woody aroma and a light dusty odor, a sense of age washes over you. Inside, antique armor and swords from the past are on display. Though slightly rusted and faded, the armor's patterns remain intricate, and the swords' sharp outlines remain. Simple guide signs detail the castle's construction and the stories of its successive guardians, allowing you to easily understand the city's past without searching.

Climbing to the top of the castle tower is a must-do. The moment you open the door, a panoramic view of Matsuyama City and the Seto Inland Sea unfolds. Modern buildings contrast with the azure sea and green mountains, while the black tiles of the ancient city walls act as a natural frame, skillfully blending the past and present. Later in the tour, I sat on a stone bench by the castle wall. The drooping pine branches nearby blocked the scorching sun, and the breeze carried the fragrance of the trees. Looking up, I could see the outline of the castle tower and, in the distance, a glimpse of the azure sea, a truly soothing experience.

Dogo Onsen, located at the foot of the mountain, is the inspiration for the hot springs in "Spirited Away." After exploring the ancient castle, soak in the thousand-year-old hot springs and savor a local mandarin orange dessert or chewy Sanuki udon to rejuvenate. Matsuyama Castle offers a leisurely stroll and a quiet experience, showcasing the unique charm of this ancient castle tower, a harmonious blend of mountains and sea.

Post by 靜走世界的你 | Oct 26, 2025