* Image is for illustrative purposes only.Matsumoto Castle
松本城
Overview
Matsumoto Castle and the National Treasure Tenshu
Matsumoto Castle is a hirajiro (flat-ground castle) believed to have been constructed between 1550 (Tenbun 19, during the Sengoku period) and approximately 1593–94 (Bunroku 2–3). Its nationally-designated-treasure tenshu—comprising the great tenshu, Inui-kotenshu, Watari-yagura, Tatatsumi-tsuki-yagura, and Tsukimi-yagura (five structures)—ranks among the oldest surviving tenshu in Japan. Its distinctive black plaster exterior walls create a striking contrast with the white snow of the surrounding Northern Alps, making it one of Japan's most spectacular landscapes and a perennial draw for visitors from around the world. Of Japan's twelve remaining original tenshu, only five—Matsumoto Castle, Hikone Castle, Inuyama Castle, Himeji Castle, and Matsue Castle—are designated as National Treasures, with Matsumoto Castle holding a preeminent position among them.
Weapons and Swords on Display within the Tenshu
The interior of Matsumoto Castle's tenshu is open to the public as a museum, with displays on castle history, armor, swords, and firearms arranged on each floor of the six-story structure. Particularly noteworthy is the museum's collection of firearms (matchlock rifles)—among the largest in Japan—comprising approximately 400 domestic and foreign matchlock rifles collected and used by successive lords of the Ogasawara, Mizuno, Matsudaira, and Toda clans. This firearms collection represents a globally significant assemblage of materials documenting the development of Japanese firearms culture from the late Sengoku period through the Edo period.
Master Swords and Armor
Alongside the firearms collection, the museum displays an extensive array of authentic swords, spears, naginata, and armor pieces favored by successive castle lords. Shinano (present-day Nagano) has long been renowned as a source of high-quality iron, and the Matsumoto region is believed to have developed its own distinctive sword-smithing tradition. Among the displayed swords are heirloom pieces associated with the Kanto Kanrei Uesugi clan and the Kai Takeda clan, serving as invaluable historical documents illuminating the political and military history of Sengoku-period Shinano. From the topmost floor (sixth level) of the great tenshu, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Northern Alps, including Jonen Peak and Yari Peak, while examining the interior displays and savoring the majestic alpine scenery.
Castle-Town Matsumoto's Culture
Matsumoto is known as a "castle town, post station, and center of learning," with a wealth of cultural facilities surrounding Matsumoto Castle, including the former Kaitoku School (National Treasure), the Matsumoto City Museum, and the City Art Museum. The Matsumoto City Museum also displays swords, armor, and folk materials related to Matsumoto Castle, and a combined visit to both venues is recommended. Matsumoto is also renowned as a center of craftsmanship, where visitors can experience tourism that blends regional traditions such as Matsumoto furniture, Matsumoto temari (decorative thread balls), and Shinshu soba noodles. As a gateway to the Shinshu region, Matsumoto is easily accessible from Tokyo via the Nagano Shinkansen (connecting at JR Nagano Station) or the direct Limited Express Azusa to JR Matsumoto Station.
Highlights
- National Treasure Matsumoto Castle Keep (Main Tower, Inui Kotenshu, Watari-yagura, Tatsumi-tsukezashiki, Tsukimi-yagura) – A keep of the oldest existing class. The contrast between the black lacquered walls and the Northern Japanese Alps is one of Japan's most spectacular views.
- One of Japan's largest tanegashira (matchlock gun) collections – Approximately 140 domestic and international tanegashira and roughly 280 related weapons displayed in the Teppō-gura (Firearms Storehouse) on the second floor of the keep. A globally significant collection demonstrating the development of firearms culture from the late Sengoku period through the Edo period.
- Swords, armor, and weapons of successive castle lords – Authentic swords, spears, naginata, and armor used by successive lords of Matsumoto Domain including the Ogasawara, Mizuno, Matsudaira, and Toda families. Experience Shinano-forged swords and the political history of Sengoku-period Shinano.
- Northern Japanese Alps vista from the top floor of the Main Tower – Spectacular views of Jōnen Peak and Yari Peak. The seasonal scenery – spring cherry blossoms and winter snow – combined with the castle creates one of Japan's finest aesthetic experiences.
- Combination with Kaichi Old School (National Treasure) and Matsumoto City Museum – Comprehensively experience the masterpiece of modern Japanese architecture at Kaichi Old School and the history of Matsumoto. Enjoy castle-town culture including Matsumoto furniture and Shinshu soba.
* Opening hours and exhibitions are subject to change. Please check the official website before visiting.