
Images: Daniel O'Grady
松山藩
Matsuyama Domain
池田氏

Ikeda Clan
65,000 Koku
水谷氏

Mizunoya Clan
50,000 Koku
安藤氏

Andō Clan
65,000 Koku
石川氏

Ishikawa Clan
60,000 Koku
板倉氏

Itakura Clan
50,000 Koku
備中松山城
Bitchū Matsuyama Castle is classified as a mountain castle (its layout: Renkakushiki), and is located in Okayama Prefecture. During the pre-modern age, it found itself within the borders of Bitchū Province. It is associated with the Mizunoya, Itakura clans. Dates in use: 1240 - 1874.
This original Edo period castle is not only the highest of all Japan's castles but it is also the shortest. The two-story main tower is accompanied by several turrets which all sitting atop their stone walls. It’s a long, long walk to the top of the mountain but worth it.
It was most unfortunate that major repairs were going on during my visit to the castle. As can be seen in the first picture, the two-story main tower is covered in scaffolding. In addition to restoration of the buildings of the castle, work was being done on several sections of the stone walls.
Timeline
1240 | Akiba Shigenobu constructed a castle on a nearby peak. |
1331 | The castle was expanded upon to include its current site. |
1575 | The castle falls to the Mōri clan. |
1600 | The Nibori clan become lords of the area after the battle of Sekigahara. |
1617 | The Ikeda clan were transferred here. |
1641 | The Mizunoya clan were transferred here. |
1695 | The Ando clan were transferred here. |
1711 | The Ishikawa clan were transferred here. |
1744 | The Itakura clan were transferred here. Eight generations of the Itakura clan ruled this castle until its eventual decommissioning. |
1868 | The castle surrendered to Imperial forces. |
1873 | The castle was abandoned. |
Historical recognition
Site | National Historic Site |
Main Tower | Important Cultural Property |
Nijuu Turret | Important Cultural Property |
San no Hirayagura Higashi Wall | Important Cultural Property |