Matsumoto Castle Park: Everything You Need Before Visiting

Overview

Things to do

Hotels

4.9 /5

12K+ reviews

Read all reviews

YIP **************

6 Mar

Buying today and picking up at Hong Kong Airport tomorrow is a major factor in choosing this. Pick up the exchange voucher at the 24-hour counter at the airport, then go to the JR Green Window in Japan to exchange for a physical JR ticket. You can also ask the staff to arrange reserved seats, which is a very convenient experience.

steve ******

24 Feb

Beautiful hotel in the heart of Matsumoto. The staff is amazing and the hotel is clean and conveniently located.

steve ******

24 Feb

Beautiful hotel in the heart of Matsumoto. The staff is amazing and the hotel is clean and conveniently located.

CherryLou ********

18 Feb

Booking the Hokuriko Arch Pass on Klook was smooth and convenient. The pass was easy to book in the app and I received my voucher 7 days after i booked. i exchanged the voucher at Narita Airport and they gave me the actual pass which i can use unlimited on all JR east/west lines around tokyo and hokuriko region for 7 days. It was also convenient and easy to book Hokuriko shinkansen on our preferred time and date with reserved seats. Totally worth it! The only downside we had was the pass sometimes are not being recognized on some stations, it wont allow us to pass so we needed to go through the manned gate , but other that that no problem. Will still book for sire to explore other areas in Hokuriko..

EZETTI ******

6 Feb

its so easy traveling back and forth with this Pass. we went to tokyo via kanazawa and use multiple time to nagano and karuizawa for ski. what a perfect pass to opt in if u want to do osaka tokyo kyoto without spending so much on JR Ultimate Pass

Rochelle *******

25 Jan

We were hesitant at first about this pass. But after reading up previous reviews and other experiences from other people, we finally decided to avail the Hokuriku Arch Pass. And it was so worth it! It also helped that we carefully planned our itinerary. The total expenses from all our train/shinkansen rides (reserved & non-reserved seats) exceeded the price we paid for the pass. Kanazawa, Toyama, Inotani, Nagano, Karuizawa, Ueno, Tokyo, Asakusa, Narita airport (via Narita Express), back to Tokyo, Akihabara then back to Narita (via local train). We used the IC card on some routes around Tokyo that were not covered by the pass. But all in all, we loved it. The exchange order was mailed to our home and was easy to redeem on major JR station office when you arrive in Japan. Seat reservation was easy too both on the machine and in the JR counters.

Klook User

22 Jan

A truly incredible tour and experience. Colin was our guide, and he was very knowledgeable and kept us safe/on track/ learning about not only the castle but the town and its history. Colin made it very apparent that he respects the Japanese culture and language, which my husband and I valued. After the tour, Miharu sensei showed us her amazing samurai skills and we got to practicing. It was SO much fun, a forever memorable experience. I would SUPER recommend this tour. I seldom write reviews but wanted to endorse this one. thanks everyone!

Narcissa ************

21 Jan

super insightful experience as a major lover of red miso. the package is worth it if you find the shirt and apron useful! but for me i would have rather just the miso and meal. regardless, it was a super hearty and yummy meal 🥰

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Where is Matsumoto Castle?

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When was Matsumoto Castle built?

Can you go inside Matsumoto Castle?

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When’s the best time to visit Matsumoto Castle?

Why is Matsumoto Castle black?

Matsumoto Castle, located in Matsumoto City in Nagano Prefecture, is one of Japan's most beautiful and historic castles. Also known as the Crow Castle due to its striking black exterior, it is one of the few original Japanese castles that have survived since the Edo Period. When you visit this national treasure Matsumoto Castle, you can explore the castle grounds, which have a castle moat and beautiful cherry trees that bloom in spring. Inside, you'll find the Japanese castle interior with steep staircases, wooden hallways, and displays of medieval weaponry. The castle tower also offers a top-floor observation platform with stunning views of the Japanese Alps and the surrounding mountains. Don't miss the moon viewing tower and the hidden floor, which were designed for defense. After exploring the castle grounds, you can visit the nearby Matsumoto City Museum to learn more about the region’s history and culture. Whether you're a fan of Japanese history or simply enjoy exploring beautiful landmarks, Matsumoto Castle Nagano is a must-visit. There are even seasonal events like the Ice Sculpture Festival in winter and cherry blossom viewing in spring, making each visit special.

Matsumoto Castle, buried bridge, Marunouchi, Reed town, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan

What to know before visiting Matsumoto Castle

Things to do in Matsumoto Castle

Explore the Castle's Interior

Step inside Matsumoto Castle and explore its amazing Japanese interior. As you climb the steep stairs inside the main tower, you'll see displays of old weapons and armor. Be sure to also climb the staircases to the top floor observation deck. From there, you can see amazing views of Matsumoto City and the nearby mountains.

Walk Around the Castle Grounds

Take a walk around the castle grounds and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes. The castle moat and stone walls add to the charm, creating a great spot for taking pictures. During cherry blossom season in mid-April, the grounds are even more beautiful with pink blooms surrounding the black castle in Japan.

Visit the Moon Viewing Tower

Come and see the Moon Viewing Tower (Tsukimi Yagura) at Matsumoto Castle. This special part of the castle was made for watching the moon and has a stunning view, especially under a starry night sky.

Attend the Ice Sculpture Festival

If you're visiting in winter, you have to see the Ice Sculpture Festival at Matsumoto Castle in Japan! You'll be amazed by the incredible ice carvings that light up at night, making the place look magical. There are also food stalls and performances, so it's a fun event for everyone.

Must-see sights near Matsumoto Castle

Japan Ukiyo-e Museum

Just a short drive from the castle, the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum has one of the biggest collections of Japanese woodblock prints in the world. The museum gives you an exciting look at this special kind of art that was popular in the Edo period.

Nawate-dori (Frog Street)

Just a short walk from Matsumoto Castle, Frog Street is a charming shopping street lined with traditional shops and food stalls. Here, you can buy souvenirs, taste local street food, and enjoy the quirky frog-themed decorations. It's a fun way to experience local culture and pick up unique gifts.

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