One of Japan's twelve remaining original castles — never rebuilt, never reconstructed. Matsuyama-jo dates to the early 17th century, though it burned down in 1784 (struck by lightning) and was rebuilt over the following 34 years, the current structure dating from 1854. It sits atop a forested hill in the middle of the city, accessible by cable car, chairlift, or a hike up through the trees.
The views over the city and the Seto Inland Sea are excellent. The castle interior holds displays on the castle's history and the lords who ruled from it.