Matsumoto Castle
Chubu Region
Matsumoto Castle, originally known as Fukashi Castle, is one of Japan's premier historic castles and a designated National Treasure. Located in Matsumoto city, Nagano Prefecture, it is renowned for its well-preserved wooden interiors and black lacquered exterior, which give it the nickname "Crow Castle." Unlike many Japanese castles built on hills, Matsumoto Castle is a flatland castle, surrounded by moats and a complex system of walls and gatehouses. The main keep (tenshukaku) dates back to the late 16th century and is part of a compound that includes four other buildings also designated as National Treasures. The castle played a significant role during the Sengoku period and the Edo period as the seat of the Matsumoto Domain under the Tokugawa shogunate. Its complex architectural style features a five-story, six-floor main keep with interconnected smaller towers, combining defensive and aesthetic elements. Despite periods of neglect and threats of demolition in the Meiji era, local efforts preserved the castle, which underwent major renovations in the early 20th century and again post-World War II. Today, Matsumoto Castle is a cultural symbol and a popular tourist attraction, especially famous for its scenic cherry blossoms and traditional Japanese castle architecture.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to visit during spring for the spectacular cherry blossoms, especially during the annual illuminated night viewing events. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but groups are guided in order of arrival at the main keep entrance, so arriving early is recommended to avoid wait times. Discounts are available for certain groups such as school parties and licensed guides. Check the official website for up-to-date event calendars and any temporary closures or restrictions.
Interesting facts
- •Matsumoto Castle is one of only twelve surviving original Japanese castles with its main keep intact.
- •It is the only flatland castle among the twelve original main keeps still standing in Japan.
- •The castle's black exterior earned it the nickname "Crow Castle."
- •The keep features a unique architectural style that combines elements of both the tower-style (tenshu) and layered castle designs.
- •The castle started leaning in the Meiji era due to structural aging and ground conditions, which was later corrected during renovations.
- •Matsumoto Castle hosts annual cherry blossom night illumination events that attract many visitors.
- •The castle was nearly demolished during the Meiji government's order to dismantle feudal fortifications but was saved by local efforts.
History
Matsumoto Castle originated as Fukashi Castle in the early 16th century, built by the Ogasawara clan as a minor fortification.
It was seized by the Takeda clan in 1550 and later passed through various hands during the turbulent Sengoku period.
The main keep and much of the castle were constructed under Ishikawa Kazumasa and his son in the 1590s.
During the Edo period, it served as the seat of the Matsumoto Domain under successive clans.
After the Meiji Restoration, the castle faced demolition but was saved by local citizens.
It underwent significant renovations in the early 1900s and mid-20th century, preserving its historic structure.
The castle complex was designated a National Treasure and a historic site by the Japanese government, cementing its cultural importance.
Place Guide
Main Keep (Tenshukaku)Late 16th century (circa 1596-1597)
The central five-story, six-floor tower of Matsumoto Castle, featuring original wooden interiors, black lacquered exterior, and complex roof structures with multiple styles of gables and windows. It served both defensive and residential purposes.
Dry Small Keep (Inui-ko-tenshu)Late 16th century
A smaller tower connected to the main keep by a corridor, sharing similar architectural features and also designated as a National Treasure.
Watari Yagura (Connecting Turret)Late 16th century
A turret connecting the main keep and smaller towers, part of the castle's complex defensive system.
Tsukimi Yagura (Moon Viewing Turret)1633
A turret attached to the castle known for its aesthetic design and red railings, built by the Matsudaira clan to host the shogun's visits, though the visit was canceled. It is the only surviving moon-viewing turret attached to a castle keep in Japan.
Castle Moats and Walls
Matsumoto Castle is surrounded by extensive moats and stone walls, part of its original defensive design, separating the main, second, and third baileys. The moats are particularly scenic during cherry blossom season.
Contact
Phone: 0263-32-2902