Matsumoto Castle (Matsumoto-jō) is one of Japan's most complete and beautiful original castles. Located in the city of Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture, it stands on a plain rather than a hilltop, making it a rare example of a hirajiro (flatland castle). Its dramatic black wainscoting has earned it the nickname "Crow Castle" (Karasu-jō), standing in stark contrast to the "White Heron" of Himeji.
History: The Feudal Fortress
The origins of the site date back to 1504, but the impressive keep (tenshu) we see today was completed around 1593-1594. It was built during a turbulent period of shifting alliances before the establishment of the Edo period peace. The castle was ruled by 23 generations of six different daimyo (feudal lord) families until the Meiji Restoration in 1868.
- Saved from Demolition: Like many Japanese castles, Matsumoto faced destruction in the late 19th century to sell its timber and iron. It was saved by a local campaign led by Ishikawa Ryozo, who raised funds to purchase and preserve the keep.
- National Treasure: It is one of only five castles in Japan designated as a National Treasure and one of the twelve remaining original castles.
Architecture: Built for War and Peace
The main keep is a unique structure with a complex roofline and a hidden floor.
- Five Floors, Six Stories: From the outside, the keep appears to have five stories, but there is actually a hidden sixth floor between the second and third levels. This dark, windowless room was designed as a safe storage area for food and gunpowder during sieges.
- Moon Viewing Wing: Unlike the heavily fortified main tower, the red-railed Tsukimi-yagura (Moon Viewing Turret) was built in 1635 during a time of peace. It has no defensive loopholes, only open sliding doors meant for viewing the moon, symbolizing the end of the warring states era.
The Vermilion Bridge
One of the most iconic views of the castle is the red Uzumibashi Bridge crossing the outer moat. Although the current bridge is a modern reconstruction, it provides a stunning foreground for photos of the black castle against the backdrop of the Japanese Alps.
Visitor Tips
- Steep Stairs: The interior stairs are extremely steep (up to a 61-degree angle) and narrow. Visitors must climb them to reach the top for panoramic views of the city and mountains.
- Festivals: The castle hosts several events, including a taiko drum festival in summer and an ice sculpture festival in winter.
- Shoes Off: As with Himeji, you must carry your shoes in a plastic bag while exploring the wooden interior.