Matsumoto Castle (松本城) in Nagano Prefecture was
What’s in a name?
Castles in Japan like to have nicknames. It’s completely a thing. Matsumoto Castle is also referred to as 烏城, kurasujyou. Or Crow Castle, due to her black exterior. She’s not the only one though. Okayama Castle also has the same nickname. For the same reason. Although they use the same kanji, Okayama Castle is pronounced “U-jyou”. I love Japanese.
Matsumoto Castle (松本城) Designations
Along with being one of the 12 original Japanese castles, Matsumoto Castle is apart of the five that are included as a National Treasure. She is 5 tiered but 6 floors inside. Something her own website claims they only share with Himeji Castle. However, Matsue Castle also has 5 tiers and 6 floors. There’s probably some nuance they are getting around for that one.
Unique Features
Do you recall me saying that Inuyama Castle (犬山城) was pretentious for only mentioning the 5 other castles that are National Treasures? Matsumoto doesn’t mention any of them! It does make mention to one of the 100 finest castles though, Okayama (岡山城).
Okayama castle and Matsumoto share a unique beautiful bit of architecture. This is a moon viewing room and is open on three sides. Added after the warring states period. Peace time allows the lord had a chance to admire the moon I suppose!
Castle Promotion Team
Don’t miss the period dressed castle promotion team when you go to Matsumoto Castle. Dressed in traditional garb, be prepared for some awesome pictures.
Festivals at Matsumoto Castle
The castle grounds known for it’s Cherry Blossoms, a great place for hanami (I don’t think you can go wrong with any of the castles). Summer time there is a Taiko Drum festival. Now on my list of things to see? Takiji Noe performance (play put on with torch lights). Autumn there is a moon viewing party.
If you go during any of these events, you can expect the castle to be very busy so account for wait time. As it’s close to skiing, you also have a good chance to catch her in the snow during winter time.
Getting There
Driving for this one is an option. Especially if you are tying it to a ski trip. There is ample parking available in town. There’s also some good micro breweries in town though so trains are an option as well. It’s Japan! There’s practically always a way to get there by train! Expect about a three hour trek from Tokyo to get here. Even with a shinkansen as part of your plan.
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The photo of the castle reflecting in the water is stunningly awesome.
Glad you like :). The birds were cooperating and not messing up the glassiness of the water too badly ;).