Matsumoto Castle
The Black Crow Castle of the Japanese Alps
Matsumoto Castle was built in stages between 1592 and 1614 during the transition from the Warring States period to the peaceful Edo era. The main keep (tenshu) was completed in 1593-1594 by Ishikawa Kazumasa and his son Yasunaga. The castle's distinctive black walls, created by multiple layers of black lacquer, contrast dramatically with the white plaster typically seen on Japanese castles like Himeji.
The castle exemplifies both military function and architectural beauty. The main keep stands six stories tall (five visible from outside, six inside), incorporating defensive features like stone-dropping openings, gun ports, and arrow slits. During the peaceful Edo period, the Tsukimi (moon-viewing) turret was added to the southeast side, reflecting a shift from military to cultural purposes. This turret, with its vermillion railings and open design, was specifically built for viewing the moon reflected in the moat.
Matsumoto Castle is one of only twelve original Japanese castles that have survived wars, fires, and earthquakes with their main keeps intact. It was designated a National Treasure in 1936. The castle underwent major restoration in the Meiji era when it nearly fell into ruin, and again between 1950-1955 after concerns about structural integrity. The current structure retains its original Warring States-era architecture and provides a genuine experience of feudal-era castle design.
Key Highlights
- National Treasure designated in 1936
- One of only twelve original Japanese castles remaining
- Built 1593-1614 with distinctive black walls (nicknamed 'Crow Castle')
- Six-story main keep with original Warring States-era architecture
- Unique moon-viewing turret added during peaceful Edo period
- Surrounded by scenic moat with Japanese Alps backdrop
Access Information
Location
4-1 Marunouchi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-0873, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Matsumoto Station (JR Chuo Main Line, Shinonoi Line, Alpico Line)
Opening Hours
8:30-17:00 (last entry 16:30) | Extended hours during Golden Week, summer, and autumn: 8:00-18:00 | Closed: Dec 29-31
Admission Fee
¥700 for adults, ¥300 for elementary and junior high students
How to Get There
From Tokyo
JR Chuo Limited Express Azusa direct to Matsumoto
2.5-3 hours
From Nagoya
JR Shinano Limited Express direct to Matsumoto
2 hours
From Matsumoto Station
Walk north through city center, or Town Sneaker bus
15 minutes
From Nagano
JR Shinonoi Line direct to Matsumoto
50 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Arrive Early to Avoid Queues
During peak seasons (cherry blossom, Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn leaves), entry queues can exceed 2 hours. Arrive at opening time (8:00 or 8:30) or visit on weekdays for shorter waits.
Prepare for Steep Stairs
The castle interior features very steep wooden stairs (up to 61 degrees) with low ceilings. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip. Not recommended for those with mobility issues. Larger bags must be carried by hand up narrow stairways.
Best Photography Seasons
Cherry blossom season (early-mid April) and autumn foliage (late October-early November) offer stunning photos with seasonal colors. Winter snow with the Japanese Alps backdrop is also spectacular. The castle is illuminated at night year-round.
Walking Around the Moat
The full moat circuit takes about 30 minutes and offers different perspectives of the castle. The northeast side with the Japanese Alps in the background provides classic photo opportunities.
Interior Museum Exhibits
The castle displays weapons, armor, and artifacts from the feudal era. Information placards are in Japanese and English. The top floor offers panoramic views of Matsumoto city and the surrounding Alps.
Special Events
The Taiko Drum Festival in late July features performances against the castle backdrop. The Ice Sculpture Festival in February creates illuminated ice art around the moat. Check event schedules when planning your visit.
Nearby Dining and Shopping
The Nakamachi district, a 10-minute walk from the castle, features traditional merchant houses converted to cafes, restaurants, and craft shops. This area preserves Matsumoto's Edo-period atmosphere.
Combination Tickets Available
Combined tickets include entry to Matsumoto City Museum and Japan Ukiyo-e Museum at discounted rates. Worth considering if you plan to explore multiple cultural sites in Matsumoto.
FAQ
How long should I spend at Matsumoto Castle?
Most visitors spend 1.5-2 hours. This includes time to explore the castle interior (45-60 minutes), walk around the moat (30 minutes), and visit the grounds. Photography enthusiasts or history buffs may want 3 hours, especially during cherry blossom or autumn seasons.
How steep are the stairs inside Matsumoto Castle?
The stairs are extremely steep, reaching angles up to 61 degrees with low ceilings. The steepest sections are between the 3rd and 6th floors. Each floor has progressively narrower and steeper stairs. Visitors with knee problems, young children, or fear of heights should carefully consider before entering.
Is Matsumoto Castle wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, no. The castle interior has only steep wooden stairs with no elevator or ramps. Wheelchair users can enjoy the exterior grounds, moat walk, and take photos of the castle from outside. The surrounding park paths are mostly accessible.
Is Matsumoto Castle an original or reconstruction?
It's one of only twelve original castles in Japan. The main keep dates from 1593-1594 and has never been destroyed. Unlike reconstructed castles with modern interiors, Matsumoto Castle retains authentic wooden construction, steep stairs, and original architectural features from the feudal era.
What's the best time of day to visit Matsumoto Castle?
Arrive at opening time (8:00 or 8:30 depending on season) to avoid crowds and enjoy the best natural lighting for photos. Late afternoon (3-4pm) also works well with fewer visitors. Avoid midday on weekends and holidays when wait times can exceed 2 hours.
Is Matsumoto Castle crowded on weekdays?
Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends. Outside of peak seasons (cherry blossom, Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn leaves), weekday wait times are typically under 30 minutes. Weekdays from November through March are the quietest periods.
Can I take photos inside Matsumoto Castle?
Yes, photography is permitted inside the castle without flash. The top floor offers panoramic views perfect for photos. Note that tripods are not allowed inside. Photography is also encouraged around the moat and castle grounds.
Are there English explanations at Matsumoto Castle?
Yes, information placards throughout the castle are bilingual in Japanese and English. English pamphlets are available at the entrance. However, no English audio guides are offered. The museum displays have basic English descriptions for weapons and armor.
Is there luggage storage at Matsumoto Castle?
Small coin lockers are available near the entrance, but they're limited and small. Large suitcases won't fit. It's better to use coin lockers at Matsumoto Station (¥300-700) where larger sizes are available. The castle's steep stairs make carrying bags inside impractical anyway.
Is Matsumoto Castle suitable for elderly visitors?
The exterior grounds and moat walk are enjoyable for elderly visitors. However, the interior stairs are challenging even for fit adults. Seniors with good mobility who can climb steep stairs may manage slowly, but those with any knee or balance issues should skip the interior and enjoy the view from outside.
Can young children visit Matsumoto Castle?
Children can visit, but parents should carefully supervise on the steep stairs. Children under 5 may find the stairs frightening or difficult. Strollers cannot be used inside and must be left at the entrance. The grounds and moat area are child-friendly with plenty of space to run.
What should I wear when visiting Matsumoto Castle?
Wear comfortable shoes with good grip - the wooden stairs can be slippery. Avoid high heels, sandals, or flip-flops. In summer, dress lightly as the castle interior has no air conditioning and gets very hot. In winter, bring layers as it's cold inside.
How long does it take to climb to the top of Matsumoto Castle?
Climbing to the 6th floor (top) takes about 20-30 minutes depending on crowds and your pace. The descent takes 15-20 minutes. During busy periods, you may wait in line on each floor. Allow extra time to read displays and enjoy views from each level.
What's the best season to visit Matsumoto Castle?
Early April for cherry blossoms and late October to early November for autumn foliage are most spectacular but crowded. Winter (December-February) offers dramatic snow scenes with the Japanese Alps backdrop and smallest crowds. Spring and autumn require arriving early to avoid long queues.
Are there restrooms at Matsumoto Castle?
Yes, modern restrooms are located near the entrance before you enter the castle. There are no restrooms inside the castle itself, so use facilities before climbing. Additional restrooms are in the surrounding park area.
What else can I see near Matsumoto Castle?
The Nakamachi district with traditional merchant houses is a 10-minute walk away. Matsumoto City Museum is adjacent to the castle with a combination ticket available. The Japan Ukiyo-e Museum and Matsumoto Timepiece Museum are also nearby. The old town area has cafes, craft shops, and restaurants worth exploring.
Is the castle illuminated at night?
Yes, Matsumoto Castle is beautifully illuminated year-round from sunset until 10pm (11pm on weekends). The black walls look spectacular at night. You cannot enter after hours, but the exterior view and moat reflections make evening photography worthwhile. No admission needed for night viewing.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance for Matsumoto Castle?
No advance tickets are available - all tickets are purchased on-site at the entrance. During peak seasons (especially cherry blossom and Golden Week), arrive at opening time to minimize wait. The ticket booth opens 30 minutes before the castle.
Can I bring bags or backpacks inside Matsumoto Castle?
Small bags are allowed but must be carried by hand up the narrow stairs. Large backpacks and rolling bags are discouraged - they're difficult to carry and may damage the historic wooden interior. Consider using station lockers for large items before visiting.
What makes Matsumoto Castle different from other Japanese castles?
Matsumoto Castle is unique for its striking black walls (earning the nickname 'Crow Castle'), making it visually distinct from white castles like Himeji. It's one of only twelve original castles surviving in Japan. The moon-viewing turret shows the transition from military to cultural purposes. The Japanese Alps backdrop provides spectacular scenery.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
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Kiso-Fukushima Town
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Nozawa Onsen
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Togakushi Shrine
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Tsumago-juku
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