Matsumoto Castle (Matsumoto-jō) - A view of Japan’s Iconic "Black Beauty"

Matsumoto Castle is one of the highlights of central Japan and easily one of the most impressive castles I've visited. Unlike many Japanese castles that were reconstructed after wars or natural disasters, Matsumoto Castle retains much of its original structure, giving it an authentic and historic atmosphere.This enduring preservation is even more remarkable when you consider its deep heritage: during its 280 years of military use, the castle was governed by 23 successive lords representing six different daimyo families.

The castle's iconic black exterior, which has earned it the nickname "Crow Castle," is particularly striking. Surrounded by a peaceful moat, it offers some of the most picturesque castle views in the country. The reflection of the castle on the water creates fantastic photo opportunities from almost every angle.

One interesting feature of Matsumoto Castle is its architecture. Although from the outside it appears to be a five-storey castle, it actually has six floors. This hidden floor was designed as part of the castle's defensive structure, making the building appear smaller than it really was. 

Inside, the castle feels surprisingly original and atmospheric. The steep wooden staircases, narrow passages, and exposed timber beams provide a glimpse into what life may have been like during Japan's feudal era. Unlike modern museums with extensive displays, the experience here is more about appreciating the architecture and imagining the castle's defensive role. Visitors should be prepared for steep climbs and low ceilings, but these features add to the castle's character.

The climb becomes progressively more challenging as you ascend through the castle. The final staircase between the 5th and 6th floors was by far the steepest and most difficult section of the tour. Visitors should be prepared to take their time, especially during busy periods when queues can form inside the castle. In total, the castle tour took approximately 50 minutes, which felt just right for appreciating both the architecture and the history.

For those who have visited Himeji Castle, the interior experience will feel somewhat similar, with its steep staircases and preserved wooden structure. While Himeji is grander in scale, Matsumoto offers a more intimate atmosphere and arguably more dramatic scenery thanks to its beautiful mountain backdrop.

One minor disappointment during my visit was that the Tsukimi Yagura (Moon Viewing Tower) was undergoing restoration works. As one of the castle's unique and elegant features, it would have been wonderful to see it in its full glory. However, the ongoing preservation efforts are understandable and important to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy this historic landmark.

One feature I particularly enjoyed was the display near the exit showcasing castles from all over Japan. It was a great way to discover other castles and gave me ideas for future trips. I found myself mentally creating a list of castles I would like to visit next. One that immediately caught my attention was the famous "Castle in the Sky", Takeda Castle Ruins, which sits dramatically above the clouds when conditions are right. Even though it is now a ruin, it looks absolutely breathtaking and has moved high up on my Japan travel wishlist.

Overall, Matsumoto Castle is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese history, architecture, or photography. Despite the restoration work on the Tsukimi Yagura during my visit, the castle's authenticity, distinctive appearance, and beautiful setting made it one of the most memorable attractions of my Japan trip. The visit not only deepened my appreciation for Japan's historic castles but also inspired me to explore even more of them in the future.