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.
