- Culture
- Nagano
Matsumoto Castle
Matsumoto Castle, a national treasure surrounded by exquisite nature and history
Matsumoto Castle stands watched over by the lofty mountains of the Northern Alps and Utsukushigahara Highlands. The national treasure was completed around 1593-1594, making it the oldest existing five structure-six story castle in Japan.
The only castle in Japan with a donjon and turrets from both the Warring States Period and Edo Period, a coexistence of differing characteristics
The Warring States Period (late 15th to late 16th century) was a period in history marked by continuous feuds over territorial disputes by daimyo feudal lords. These daimyos constructed their castles to be strong fortresses bearing in mind the constant battles and defending their territories from enemies. Matsumoto Castle was constructed during such time, evident in the many structures built for battle in the castle’s three donjons and turret, including 115 narrow windows for shooting arrows and guns, and 11 openings for dropping stones.
Fun walk through the castletown
Matsumoto Castle is encircled by some unique streets. Among them, Nakamachi Street is a fun street to walk with historical kura storehouses decorated in black and white namako walls. Formerly a commercial area thriving with brewers and garment wholesalers, the area suffered much damage from major fires during the late Edo Period (1603-1868) and Meiji Period (1868-1912). In response, merchants put their heads together and built the fire-resistant namako wall storehouses made from layers of mud. Many of the simple black and white designed buildings still remain today, giving a glimpse of the old town of Matsumoto.
Matsumoto Castletown Springs
Wandering through the castletown of Matsumoto, you may spot a number of wells. The areas around Matsumoto Castle are actually abundant with groundwater generated over a long time from the surrounding mountains and rivers, resulting in numerous wells and natural springs called the Matsumoto Castletown Springs. The wells are maintained by residents, such as with the Genchi Well which is very much a part of the local people's everyday lives. Even today, people come to draw water from these wells daily, serving as a place to gather and relax for both local residents and visitors. Also close by Matsumoto Castle is Yoikana Brewery, which has continued to produce quality sake over the years using spring water from the local Metoba Spring.
Location
| Name | Matsumoto Castle |
|---|---|
| Web Sites | https://www.matsumoto-castle.jp/lang/ |
| Address | 4-1 Marunouchi, Matsumoto-shi, Nagano |
| Access | By train: Approximately 15 minutes' walk from JR Matsumoto Station By bus: Approximately 10-minute ride on Matsumoto Tour Bus “Town Sneaker” North Course departing from Matsumoto Station Oshiroguchi stop to Matsumotojo-Shiyakushomae stop By car: Approximately 20 minutes from Matsumoto IC |
| Business Hours | 8:30 to 17:00 (last entrance 16:30) Opening hours vary depending on the time of year |
| Closed | December 29 to 31 |
| Inquiries | TEL:0263-32-2902 (Matsumoto Castle Administration Office) |
| Admission | Adults: 610 yen / Elementary and junior high school students: 300 yen |
| Name | Matsumoto Tourist Information Center |
|---|---|
| Web Sites | https://visitmatsumoto.com/en/ |
| Address | First floor, Matsumoto Shiyakusho Otejimusho, 3-8-13 Ote, Matsumoto-shi, Nagano |
| Access | Approximately 15 minutes' walk from JR Matsumoto Station |
| Business Hours | 9:00 to 17:45 |
| Closed | Year-end and New Year holidays |
| Inquiries | TEL:0263-39-7176 |