Matsumoto Castle
Japan's most dramatically sited original castle — a black-and-white six-tiered keep reflected in its surrounding moat against the Northern Alps backdrop. Built in 1594, it is one of four surviving original castles and the oldest in the country. Known as the "Crow Castle" for its black lacquered walls.
1–2 hours
Adults ¥1,200 (e-ticket) / ¥1,300 (paper); children ¥400
8:30–17:00 (last entry 16:30); park always open; night illumination: Apr–Nov on weekends
April (cherry blossom), October–November (Alps colour)
15 min walk or 10 min bus from Matsumoto Station (JR Chuo Line)
Location
Why Visit
- 1
The castle walls are painted black with lead-based lacquer — the only surviving black castle in Japan
- 2
The Moon-viewing turret (Tsukimi Yagura) was added in 1636 purely for aesthetic purposes, not defense
- 3
Cherry blossom season brings the perfect pink-black-mountain contrast — Matsumoto's most photographed view
Local Tips
Japan's finest original castle keep — the six-story black exterior earned it the nickname 'Crow Castle'. The interior is authentic and steep; the top floor view over the Japanese Alps is outstanding. Arrive at 8:30am opening to avoid the longest queues; the moat reflection of the castle in the morning water is spectacular. Matsumoto's old town jazz cafes and sake bars are worth exploring after.
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