Climb the national treasure-grade five-story tenshu and explore Japan’s Warring States history::Nagano::Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto Castle, located in Matsumoto City, was built in 1593. Having withstood over four hundred years of relentless warfare and frequent changes in feudal lords—ruled by six clans across 23 generations—it witnessed the rise and fall of various domains during the Warring States period. Over the centuries, it has developed a rich cultural heritage, earning the nickname "City of Learning." Alongside Himeji Castle, Inuyama Castle, and Hikone Castle, it is one of four castles designated as national treasures by the Japanese government. The castle’s tenshu is the oldest surviving five-story tenshu in Japan. Surrounded by a moat, Matsumoto Castle’s tenshu was originally constructed for defense and military functions. Though not ornate or grandiose in appearance, the area around it is lush with trees and seasonal flowers, offering beautiful scenery in every season. It is also a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing.
★★★Extended Reading = Who rivals Matsumoto Castle? Only Himeji Castle in Hyogo::Himeji Castle
Built atop Mount Himeyama, Himeji Castle stands 92 meters tall from its base to the top of the tenshu. As an extremely important military fortress, coupled with its complex and winding defensive design, it is highly defensible—invading enemies often lost their way within its walls...Click to view attraction details