About Matsumoto Castle
Matsumoto Castle is one of the oldest castles in Japan. Fortification of the site dates back to simple wooden structures built during the Warring States period (1467–1600). The towering castle was constructed in 1594, and today it is the oldest surviving example of a castle with five external stories but six internal floors.
Matsumoto Castle was nearly torn down during the Meiji era (1868–1912) and was saved only through the work of local residents who fought for its preservation. In the years since, the castle has been designated a National Treasure in recognition of its historic value.
Map of the Castle Grounds
| 外堀 |
Outer Moat |
| 内堀 |
Inner Moat |
| 本丸御殿跡 |
Honmaru Goten Site |
| 大天守 |
Great Keep |
| 乾小天守 |
Northwest Tower |
| 渡櫓 |
Roofed Passage |
| 辰巳附櫓 |
Southeast Wing |
| 月見櫓 |
Moon-Viewing Tower |
| 埋橋 |
Uzumibashi Bridge |
| 売店 |
Gift Shop |
| 黒門 |
Kuromon Gate |
| 観覧券売場 |
Ticket Office |
| 太鼓門 |
Taikomon Gate |
| 旧松本市立博物館 |
Former Site of the Matsumoto City Museum |
| 二の丸御殿跡 |
Ninomaru Goten Site |
| 御金蔵 |
Storehouse |
| 二の丸裏御門橋 |
Ninomaru Ura-Gomon Bridge |