Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan’s most iconic and historically significant fortresses. Built in 1594 by the Ishikawa family, retainers of the powerful Tokugawa and Toyotomi clans, it is said to be the oldest surviving example of a Japanese castle keep with five external stories but six internal floors.
Unlike many castles built on defensive hills, Matsumoto Castle is a flatland castle, built against a backdrop of the majestic Northern Japanese Alps. It was once surrounded by a triple moat system, but most of the moats have since been filled in. The castle keep complex combines features for defense—including 115 embrasures (for firing guns), 11 stone drop mechanisms, and walls thick enough to stop bullets (approximately 30 cm on the first and second floors)—with refined architectural additions like the Moon-Viewing Tower (Tsukimi Yagura), built in the peaceful early days of the Edo period for enjoying the scenery rather than for battle.
Seasonal events are held throughout the year. Visitors can tour the castle interior with an admission ticket, and for those who wish to gain a deeper understanding of its feudal history, free guided tours are also available by reservation. However, visitors may also join a tour on the day of their visit if there are openings, even without a reservation. Please note that the tour does not include a guided tour inside the castle keep. Designated as a National Treasure, Matsumoto Castle was nearly sold off in the Meiji era, but local citizens rallied to save what has become one of Japan’s most important castle landmarks.