Okayama Prefecture’s Tsuyama City: Proud of Its Nature and History! 6 Recommended Tourist Spots

Tsuyama City is located in the inland area of Okayama Prefecture. It’s a town rich in nature and history. As the third largest city in the prefecture, Tsuyama boasts many wonderful sights, including powerful waterfalls and gardens filled with the charm of each season. There are also historical sites like the Mantoyama Kofun, where you can learn about the region's history, offering plenty to enjoy. This time, we’ll introduce some recommended tourist spots in Tsuyama City, Okayama Prefecture.

1. Kamo Town History and Folklore Museum, Home of the Late 6th-Century Mantoyama Kofun

Welfare Center. Inside the museum, you can explore exhibits about archaeological sites and ancient burial mounds (kofun) discovered in Kamo Town. Among them, the Mantoyama Kofun located nearby is one of the most popular highlights.

According to historians, the Mantoyama Kofun is believed to date back to the latter half of the 6th century. At that time, it was positioned between the Kurami River and Kamo River. The mound boasts a diameter of about 24 meters and a height of 4 meters, making it one of the largest kofun in the Tsuyama area.

Seeing ruins from the late 6th century offers a unique opportunity to imagine what life was like back then. Admission to the Mantoyama Kofun is free, so why not take the chance to discover more about the history of Kamo Town during your visit?

2. Experience the Scenery and Remnants of the Early Edo Period at Tsuyama Castle

Tsuyama Castle, also known as "Kakuzan Castle," was built in the early Edo period by Mori Tadamasa, the younger brother of Mori Ranmaru, who died in the Honnoji Incident. Unfortunately, the castle structures were dismantled in the Meiji period due to government orders, so no original buildings remain today. However, the site still holds a faint echo of its historic charm, making it a perfect place to experience the feel of a bygone era.

Take a closer look at the stone walls, and you’ll notice they stand about 10 meters tall. These multi-layered stone walls are impressive on their own, but there’s more to enjoy. In spring, the castle grounds come alive with beautiful cherry blossoms, attracting many visitors.

3. Tsuyama Manabi no Tetsudokan: Passing on the Legacy of Railroads to Future Generations

The Tsuyama Manabi no Tetsudokan is a railway museum that opened in April 2016. In the past, there were many roundhouses for locomotives throughout Japan, but the fan-shaped roundhouse preserved at this museum is extremely rare. When you visit, you can see over 10 locomotives up close. Seeing these classic trains can bring back nostalgic memories and immerse you in the atmosphere of the good old days.

At the Tsuyama Manabi no Tetsudokan, you can learn not only about railways but also about the local region. The museum is divided into four main sections, each offering detailed insights into the town and its railroad history.

One highlight you shouldn’t miss is the preserved diesel locomotive, said to be the only one of its kind in Japan. Be sure to check it out!

4. Nunotaki Falls: Listen to the Sound of the Water and Feel the Embrace of Nature

Nunotaki Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Okayama Prefecture. Located about 1.5 km from Kuroiwa Plateau, the water cascades down like a beautiful cloth being spread out. The waterfall plunges from a height of about 40 meters and spans approximately 10 meters in width. If it’s your first time visiting Nunotaki Falls, you’ll be awestruck by its power and beauty.

In the area around the falls, you can also enjoy fishing for species like amago (red-spotted trout) and rainbow trout. If the weather is good and you feel lucky, why not give fishing a try? Spending time fishing while listening to the soothing sound of the waterfall is a wonderful way to refresh your mind.

5. Shurakuen Garden: A Strolling Garden with Seasonal Beauty

Shurakuen is a garden constructed in the 1650s. It was originally built for the feudal lords, but today it is beloved and open to the general public. Until the end of the Edo period, the garden was used as a place for interaction between the feudal lords and their envoys. Ordinary citizens were not allowed to enter until the early Meiji period, specifically in 1870.

More than half of Shurakuen Garden is occupied by a pond. This pond is the highlight of the garden, with its shimmering surface reflecting beautiful scenery that captivates many visitors. Every plant in the garden is carefully maintained and elegant, making it a pleasure just to look at. The flowers that bloom change with each season, but no matter the time of year, they harmonize beautifully with the landscape. Enjoy the different seasonal matches throughout the year.

6. Josei Roman-kan: Savor Coffee While Experiencing the Romance of the Taisho Era

When you step into the Josei Roman-kan, you'll feel as if you've been transported back to the Taisho period. And for good reason — this retro building full of historical charm was constructed in Taisho 6 (1917).

The Roman-kan was originally a hospital. It was built by Dr. Takuji Nakajima, who worked as an internal medicine doctor and wanted to create his “ideal hospital.” Later on, many residents requested that this precious building, full of history and grandeur, be preserved, and now it is permanently maintained. In September 2010, it was designated as a Tangible Cultural Property by the national government.
Inside, you can enjoy a cup of coffee at the café. Savor the atmosphere that blends the nostalgic charm of the past with a touch of exotic flair at this romantic, historical spot.