Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle, also known as Takahashi Castle, is a hilltop fortress located in the city of Takahashi, Okayama Prefecture, Japan. The castle was built in 1240 by Yamana Tadakuni and served as a strategic stronghold during the Sengoku period (1467-1603). The castle's location on top of a steep mountain provided a strategic advantage for defense against attacks, and it is considered one of the most impregnable castles in Japan.

The castle was originally constructed by the Yamana clan, who were one of the most powerful clans in western Japan during the medieval period. The castle was expanded and reinforced during the 16th century by Mori Motonari, the daimyo of Aki Province. In 1575, the castle was attacked by Oda Nobunaga, who was attempting to unify Japan under his rule. However, the castle was successfully defended by Mori Terumoto, the son of Mori Motonari, and his army.

The castle was later taken by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1580, who assigned Ukita Hideie as the new lord of the castle. The Ukita clan ruled the castle until the end of the Edo period in 1868, when it was dismantled as part of the Meiji Restoration. Today, only the main keep, a few gates, and a portion of the castle wall remain, but they have been well-preserved and restored over the years.

The main keep of Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle is unique in that it is the only remaining original castle tower in Japan that was constructed using the yagura-zukuri style of architecture. This style features a small tower on top of a larger tower, which allowed for greater visibility and defense. The main keep of the castle has five floors and stands at a height of 25 meters, making it one of the tallest surviving castles in Japan.

Visitors to Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle can climb to the top of the main keep and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The castle is also home to a museum, which displays artifacts and exhibits related to the castle's history and the samurai culture of feudal Japan. The museum includes displays of armor, weapons, and other items used by samurai warriors, as well as models and dioramas depicting the castle and its surroundings during different periods of Japanese history.

Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle is also known for its cherry blossom festival, which takes place every spring. The castle's grounds are filled with over 1000 cherry trees, which bloom in late March or early April, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The castle's cherry blossom festival is considered one of the most beautiful and picturesque festivals in Japan, and is a popular destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts.  

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle has also been featured in popular culture. The castle has appeared in numerous Japanese films, television shows, and video games, including the popular video game series "Sengoku Basara." The castle's unique architecture and impressive fortifications have made it a popular subject for artists, photographers, and historians alike.