Historic places in Tsuyama

Historic places in Tsuyama

1. See

   Kakuzan Park

   鶴山公園 Kakuzan koen

   This park contains the ruins of Tsuyama Castle (津山城), once considered to be the most spectacular Japanese castle. Since the castle was decommissioned during the Meiji Period, all that remains₨ are the castle walls however, they are truly well-preserved, and a walk around the castle grounds offers many great views of the city and a feel for the castle's former grandeur. The small turret, the only castle structure in the park, was reconstructed in 2004 out of wood to stay true to the original to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Tsuyama Castle. The park has gained fame as not only being the best place in Okayama but also as the best place in the entire Chugoku region for viewing cherry blossoms due to its 1,000 cherry blossom trees, scenic ruins, and festive atmosphere. It is also a great place to view the changing leaves in the fall. There is a heart-shaped stone in the walls of the former honmaru that is a popular photo-op, particularly among women. It is even featured on some of the souvenirs.

   Closed · opens 8:40 am·¥300

2. See

   Kamo History and Folk Museum

   加茂町歴史民俗資料館

   Located in the Kamo Town Welfare Center, the museum features locally excavated artifacts with information about them.

   Mon-Fri 09:00-17:00, closed holidays

3. Do

   Kotokomachi Kimono Rentals

   古都小町 町屋着物レンタル

   Located on Tsuyama's historic Joto Street, kimono rentals are a nice way to enjoy the historic town in traditional clothing. They offer a variety of rental sets for women (which also include hair accessories), as well as options for men and children. The rental also includes optional parasols and scarves/shawls. A handful of other rental options are also available for additional fees. Standard rentals are for 3 hours however for ¥1000 you can choose to return the kimono the following morning if it is not a holiday. Sizes go up to 3L.

   10:00-16:40 (closed Mon Thu)·Women's rentals start at ¥4900

4. See

   Kume History and Folk Museum

   久米歴史民俗資料館

   The museum features a variety of locally excavated artifacts from abandoned temples and the Nasuyama ruins.

   Mon-Fri 09:00-17:00, closed holidays.·Free

5. See

   Tsuyama Folk Museum

   津山郷土博物館

   As Tsuyama has been the center of Mimasaka culture since the province was established, the museum displays artifacts and information from the founding of Mimasaka to the present, including a replica of the original Tsuyama Castle.

   Daily 09:00-17:00·¥210

6. See

   Yayoi no Sato

   弥生の里

   People have been living in Tsuyama and the surrounding area since ancient times. Yayoi no Sato has a museum (the Yayoi Culture Center) containing artifacts and displays about the villages that existed here during the Yayoi Period. Across the street from the center the Yayoi no Sato is a park area containing life-size replicas of Yayoi Period houses and other structures.

   Closed · opens 9 am·Free

7. Do Not mapped

   Izumo Street Festival

   This festival features a parade of individuals dressed in traditional Japanese clothing to remind everyone of the city's history as a part of the ancient pilgrimage to Izumo Shrine. Various other performances and events, such as tea ceremonies, are also held.

   First Sun in Nov

8. Do Not mapped

   Tsuyama Cherry Blossom Festival

   Tsuyama is known in Okayama prefecture as the best place to view cherry blossoms in the spring. The Cherry Blossom Festival features an impressive 5,000 cherry trees. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful flowers among the ancient castle ruins. There is also a Daimyo Procession parade.

   Early to mid-Apr

Listings from the Wikivoyage guide to Tsuyama (CC BY-SA 4.0).