Question 1

How do I access the keep?

Accepted Answer

From JR Bitchu-Takahashi Station, it takes about 15 minutes by taxi to Fuigo Pass, and then about 20 minutes on foot to reach the keep. On weekends and holidays, a shuttle bus (300 yen round trip) also operates from Shiromibashi Park car park to Fuigo Pass.

Question 2

What kind of castle is Bitchu Matsuyama Castle?

Accepted Answer

It is the only mountain castle among the 12 castles with original keeps remaining in Japan. The keep, two-story turret, and earthen walls remain on Mount Kommatsu at an elevation of about 430 m, and it is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. It is also counted among Japan's 100 Famous Castles and Japan's Three Great Mountain Castles.

Question 3

How much is the admission fee?

Accepted Answer

The admission fee from Fuigo Pass to the keep is 300 yen for adults and free for junior high school students and under. Note that transportation from the car park to Fuigo Pass is by shuttle bus (300 yen round trip) or on foot.

Question 4

Should I wear easy-to-walk clothes and shoes?

Accepted Answer

The mountain trail from Fuigo Pass to the keep is maintained and can be walked in sneakers, but since it is a mountain path, we recommend wearing comfortable clothes and easy-to-walk shoes. If you plan to explore the medieval castle site area (Mount Oomatsu), more serious hiking equipment will be necessary.

Question 5

When can you see the sea of clouds?

Accepted Answer

In the early morning from mid-October to around March, when weather conditions align, you can enjoy the spectacular sight of the keep appearing above the sea of clouds. Viewing from the cloud sea observation point (mid-slope of Mount Gyagyuu) is recommended. It is said to occur most easily when it is cold the previous day and clear on the morning in question.

Question 6

Has it been used as a filming location for a historical drama?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It was used as a filming location for the NHK historical drama "Sanada Maru" (broadcast in 2016).

Question 7

What is the cat lord Sanjuuro?

Accepted Answer

This refers to a cat named "Sanjuuro," known as the official cat lord of Bitchu Matsuyama Castle. It sometimes lives near the main citadel and is said to bring good fortune if you meet it. However, since its whereabouts are unpredictable, you may not see it.

Question 8

How long does a visit take?

Accepted Answer

For a round trip from Fuigo Pass to the keep, allow about 1 to 2 hours. If you walk the entire course along the castle walls, it will take longer.

Question 9

Can I enjoy other tourist spots in the Takahashi area at the same time?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Near Takahashi city are attractions such as "Fukiya Furusato Village" (Japan Heritage site, a town of Bengala dye) and Yorikuji Temple (a celebrated garden designed by Oensho Kobori), and combination visits to these are popular. You can gather information at the Takahashi City Tourism and Exchange Center near JR Bitchu-Takahashi Station.

Question 10

Is there a car park?

Accepted Answer

Shiromibashi Park car park (free) is the nearest car park. From here you can take a shuttle bus (operates on weekends and holidays) to Fuigo Pass. Since the number of spaces is limited, we recommend arriving early on weekends and during autumn leaf season.

Question 11

What is the admission fee?

Accepted Answer

Adults 300 yen, free for junior high school students and under (for entry to Fuigo Pass–Main Tower).

Question 12

When is it closed?

Accepted Answer

Closed during certain periods from December to January, and in severe weather (see official website for details).

Question 13

Is there a car park?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is available. Please check the official information for details.

Question 14

How do I get there?

Accepted Answer

About 15 minutes by taxi from JR Bitchu-Takahashi Station (to Fuigo Pass), then about 20 minutes on foot. A shuttle bus to Fuigo Pass also runs on weekends and holidays (300 yen round trip from Shiro-mibashi Park parking lot).

Question 15

What is the address?

Accepted Answer

1 Uchiyamashita, Takahashi City, Okayama Prefecture

Question 16

What are the visiting hours?

Accepted Answer

9:00–17:30 (last entry 17:00) *Hours vary by season. Sea of clouds viewing is best around sunrise in early morning.

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