About
Matsumoto Castle's distinctive black five-tiered keep, earning it the nickname "Crow Castle" (Karasu-jō). The striking dark exterior creates exceptional contrast with autumn foliage. Source: Wikimedia Commons
Matsumoto Castle stands as one of Japan's most magnificent and complete original castles, designated as a National Treasure in 1936 (structures designated in 1952). Originally known as Fukashi Castle, this flatland castle was constructed during the turbulent Sengoku Period (Warring States Period) between 1593-1594 under the rule of Lord Ishikawa Kazumasa and his son Yasunaga. 🔗
The castle's most distinctive feature is its stunning black-lacquered exterior, which earned it the nickname "Karasu-jō" (Crow Castle). This dark facade is thought to be a tribute to Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a powerful samurai and daimyō of the late Sengoku period. The main keep is the oldest surviving five-tiered, six-story castle tower remaining in Japan, maintaining its original wooden interiors and external stonework. 🔗
The castle complex consists of five surviving original structures in the main keep area, all designated as National Treasures. Throughout its history, Matsumoto Castle was ruled by men under powerful samurai including Takeda Shingen, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu. 🔗
Cultural & Historical Significance
The castle represents a significant transition in Japanese history. While the main keep is a product of a time of war, featuring defensive architecture including a hidden sixth floor, narrow windows for archers, and openings for dropping stones on attackers, the later addition of the elegant Tsukimi Yagura (Moon-Viewing Tower) during the peaceful Edo period illustrates the shift from military fortification to a residence for the ruling lord. 🔗
Route Context: Matsumoto Castle serves as a cultural transition marker on the journey from Mount Fuji through the Japanese Alps to the Hida region, representing the shift from natural sacred landscapes to human military architecture and samurai culture before reaching Takayama's merchant heritage.
Visiting Information
Access: From Matsumoto Interchange on Nagano Expressway, the castle is approximately 15 minutes' drive toward Matsumoto Station on National Route 158. The route is straightforward and well-signed. Route 158 passes directly through Matsumoto City, making this an on-route stop requiring no significant detour. 🔗
Parking: There is no dedicated parking at Matsumoto Castle itself, but multiple large city-operated parking garages are within convenient walking distance. A temporary parking area is located approximately 5 minutes' walk from the castle, operating 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, with fees of ¥510 per hour for large vehicles. Most parking lots use automated systems requiring you to input your parking space number at the pay machine. 🔗
Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM) in October
Admission:
- E-ticket (recommended): Adults ¥1,200, Children ¥400
- Paper ticket: Adults ¥1,300, Children ¥400
- Advance booking: E-tickets can be reserved up to 3 months in advance with timeslot selection
Special October Events: Chrysanthemum Exhibition runs October 28 - November 12 (free admission to exhibition). 🔗
Seasonal Considerations: Late October marks the beginning of peak foliage season (late October through mid-November), creating exceptional contrast between black castle walls and vivid red and yellow maple leaves. October 24, 2025 weather: 10-20°C daytime, light jacket recommended for outdoor observation.
The Experience
Main Keep Exploration
Visitors climb through six floors of original wooden architecture:
- First Floor: Introduction to castle history and structure
- Second Floor: Matsumoto Castle Gun Museum with battle equipment displays
- Upper Floors: Steep wooden stairs (approximately 140 steps, maximum grade 61°), defensive architectural features, narrow archer windows
- Hidden Sixth Floor: Strategic military space
- Viewing Windows: Panoramic views of Matsumoto City and surrounding Japanese Alps
Physical Accessibility: Very steep stairs with low ceilings throughout. Not suitable for those with mobility limitations. Shoe removal required before entering main keep; plastic bags provided for carrying shoes. 🔗
Castle Grounds & Gardens
- Honmaru Garden surrounding the keep with seasonal plantings
- Moon-Viewing Tower (Tsukimi Yagura) - elegant Edo period addition
- Moat walk with scenic pathway
- Bridge entrance with classic approach views
- Exceptional photography opportunities with autumn foliage 🔗
Visit Duration:
- Quick visit: 45-60 minutes (exterior and quick interior tour)
- Full experience: 1.5-2 hours (complete interior exploration and grounds)
- Route traveler recommendation: 1-2 hours allows adequate time without significant route delay
Practical Visiting Tips
Driving Considerations:
- Park at city-operated garages (¥150/30 min) or temporary lot (¥510/hour)
- Navigate parking payment systems (automated with space number input)
- 5-15 minute walk from parking to castle depending on location
- Total route impact: 2-3 hours including parking, visit, and optional lunch
Route Integration:
- Strategic mid-journey cultural stop (approximately 2 hours from Fujikawaguchiko, 1 hour to Takayama)
- Combines well with Nakamachi District for lunch (5-10 minute walk)
- Early afternoon departure maintains schedule to Takayama
Cultural Etiquette:
- Shoe removal required; carry shoes in provided plastic bags
- Navigate steep stairs carefully; respect original structure
- Follow designated routes and staff instructions
- No food/drink within castle grounds
- Pets not allowed inside keep or Honmaru Garden
Money-Saving Options:
- E-tickets save ¥100 per adult compared to paper tickets
- Advance booking secures timeslot and avoids sold-out situations
- Free volunteer guides in blue jackets offer tours in English
- Free Chrysanthemum Exhibition (if visiting during October 28 - November 12)
Photography Recommendations:
- Best spots: Moat reflections, red bridge approach, garden viewpoints
- Timing: Mid-morning to early afternoon for optimal light
- October composition: Black walls with vivid autumn leaves create exceptional photos
- Wide-angle lens for full castle views; telephoto for architectural details 🔗
Location: View on Google Maps
Source: attractions/fujikawaguchiko-to-takayama-main-route/matsumoto-castle.md