Discovering Matsumoto Castle: A Personal Journey into the Heart of Japan

A few years ago, we finally ticked off a major bucket list destination: Matsumoto Castle. Known as “Crow Castle” because of its distinctive black exterior, this iconic fortress didn’t just impress us—it totally blew us away with its rich history and breathtaking surroundings.

Driving into Matsumoto, the Japanese Alps loomed in the background, setting a dramatic stage for our first glimpse of the castle. It was like stepping into a postcard; the striking contrast of the dark castle against the lush greenery was something out of a fairytale. We knew right then that we were in for something special.

Built in the 16th century by the warrior Ishikawa Kazumasa, Matsumoto Castle stands as a proud reminder of Japan’s feudal past. It’s a stunning blend of Japanese traditional architecture with a hint of Western influence, and walking up to it, you feel a real sense of stepping back in time.

As soon as we entered, the cool, dark wood of the interiors was a stark contrast to the bright exterior. Matsumoto Castle is filled with history, and you can hear it in the creak of the old floorboards and see it in the samurai armor displayed inside. Each floor has something different to offer, but the observation deck was the highlight for us. From there, the views of the city and mountains are just spectacular. It’s not just a feast for the eyes—the strategic vantage point makes you appreciate the castle’s military significance back in the day.

Learning about the Matsumoto Castle’s origins was fascinating. It started life as Fukashi Castle in the 1500s during the turbulent Warring States period. Surviving centuries, it now stands as Japan’s oldest five-tiered, six-story castle. Its design, with alternating black and white layers, makes it stand out against the mountainous backdrop, a sight so captivating we spent a good hour just snapping photos.

The castle’s history is equally riveting. It was more than just a military stronghold; it was a center of political and cultural life where leaders and scholars congregated to discuss the pressing issues of their times. The museum inside offers a deep dive into this rich past, with relics and stories that bring the history to life.

Visiting in spring, we were lucky enough to catch the cherry blossoms in full bloom. The sight of delicate pink blossoms framing the dark, imposing structure of the castle was magical. It’s a popular time to visit, and rightly so. The blossoms add a layer of beauty and serenity to the already stunning landscape.

The castle grounds are a must-visit too. There’s a beautifully maintained Japanese garden right there—a perfect spot to unwind after touring the castle. The pathways and ponds invite you to slow down and appreciate the smaller details of Japanese garden art.

And let’s not forget the local cuisine! The area around the castle is dotted with quaint eateries where you can sample some authentic Japanese dishes. We tried soba noodles at a small shop and they were delicious—a perfect end to our day of exploration.

Booking a tour of the castle and surrounding area was definitely a good move. It made the visit smooth and informative, ideal for soaking up as much history and culture as possible.

All in all, our trip to Matsumoto Castle was more than just a check on our travel list. It was a journey into the heart of Japan’s history and beauty. Standing in front of the imposing structure, we felt a deep connection to the past, a moment where time stood still and we were part of the unfolding story. If you’re heading to Japan, make sure to put Matsumoto Castle on your itinerary. It’s not just a site to visit; it’s an experience to cherish.