Welcome to Matsumoto Castle
Matsumoto Castle is one of the oldest castles in Japan. It was built in the last decade of the sixteenth century, a time when warlords battled each other for control of the country. The castle was nearly torn down in the nineteenth century, but it was saved through the efforts of dedicated local residents who campaigned for its preservation. The castle was designated a National Treasure in 1936 and redesignated under the revised system in 1952. Today, Matsumoto Castle is one of only 12 surviving castle structures that were built in or before the Edo period (1603–1867).
Among those 12 surviving castles, the design of Matsumoto Castle is unique. The castle’s three main structures (the Great Keep, the Northwest Tower, and the Roofed Passage) were built in 1594 under the Ishikawa family. Two additional structures, the Southeast Wing and the Moon-Viewing Tower, were added in 1634 under the Matsudaira family. This two-phase building process is reflected in the castle’s unique blend of wartime and peacetime architecture.
Meet the Omotenashi Squad!
Matsumoto Castle’s Omotenashi Squad walks the grounds dressed in traditional armor and clothing. Scan the QR code to learn more about these historical figures and their connections to the castle.