🗺️ Tsuyama Castle津山城

Tsuyama Castle originated from Tsuru-yama Castle, built by Yamana Tadamasa in 1441. It was destroyed and abandoned during the Onin and Bunmei Wars. Later, Mori Tadamasa, the younger brother of Mori Ranmaru, a retainer of Oda Nobunaga, changed the name of the castle from "Tsuru-yama" to "Tsuyama" and began its reconstruction. This magnificent castle was completed after 13 years of construction starting in 1604 and is one of Japan's three major hilltop castles. At the time of its construction, in addition to the five-story tenshu (main keep) in the honmaru (main bailey), there were also the ninomaru (second bailey) and sanomaru (third bailey), totaling over 80 buildings, including the palace, turrets, and castle gates. Later, during the Meiji period, it was destroyed due to the castle abolition order, leaving behind stone walls that rise up to 10 meters. Second only to the tenshu in Tsuyama Castle is the Bichu turret, which was rebuilt as part of the 400th anniversary commemoration project. The interior of the turret features precious tatami rooms and is connected to the main hall by a corridor, designed to be used in conjunction with the main hall. From the foundation of the former tenshu, one can enjoy a panoramic view of Tsuyama City. The castle ruins have been transformed into Tsuru-yama Park, which is home to about 1,000 cherry blossom trees, making it a famous cherry blossom viewing spot. During the cherry blossom season, visitors can also see the illuminated night cherry blossoms against the backdrop of the castle walls.

Along with Himeji Castle and Matsuyama Castle, it is ranked as one of the "Three Great Flat Mountain Castles of Japan." It is a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, with lighting set up at night. From the main keep, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Tsuyama City.