Matsumoto Castle

japan · history · architecture

Ancient fortress rises. Matsumoto Castle, originally called Fukashi Castle, sits in Matsumoto city in Nagano Prefecture and is considered one of Japan's three greatest historic castles alongside Himeji and Kumamoto.

Seat of power. During Japan's Edo Period, the castle served as the headquarters for the Matsumoto Domain under the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate, making it a center of samurai authority.

Architectural treasure. The castle is famous for its stunning black and white design with multiple towers that reflect traditional Japanese castle-building expertise from centuries ago.

Living history. Today, Matsumoto Castle remains one of the few original castles from feudal Japan still standing, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience how samurai lived.