Matsumoto Castle, Chubu, Japan

4.5 (3.623 reviews) Sunday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent Ranking #1 in Chubu Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles • Scenic Walking Areas

Matsumoto Castle

My ancestors resided in Matsumoto Castle during the Tokugawa, Ieyasu era so it was a very person visit for my son and I. I appreciated that there are many docents inside the castle as it has steep stairways and they controlled the enter/exit way. I was bit anxious climbing down the stairs, but no one rushed me or told me to hurry. They provided plastic bags for our shoes and had benches to sit on to put them back on after the tour. Outside, we luckily saw a re-enactor with our family mon (crest) on his flag and we eagerly requested a photo with him (attached). I would highly recommend visiting this National Treasure of Japan (one of the few original standing castles in Japan).
Chubu review images

Address

4-1 Marunouchi, Matsumoto 390-0873 Nagano Prefecture

Mobile

+81 263-32-2902

Website

http://www.matsumoto-castle.jp/

Working hours

Monday : 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday : 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday : 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday : 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday : 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday : 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday : 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Current local date and time now

Sunday, May 05, 2024, 20:30

User Ratings

4.5 based on (3.623 reviews)

Excellent

55%

Good

37%

Satisfactory

Poor

Terrible

Reviews

5gpants1 5:00 PM Mar 13, 2023
A beautiful well-preserved part of Japan’s history
One of only 20or so original castles left in Japan. Beautifully maintained and now that restrictions have lifted entrance into the castle is available with ticket purchase. The climb on the almost verticals stairs inside is challenging and not recommended for people with physical disabilities. The views from the top are extraordinary. We also had a free English volunteer guide to the grounds. She was excellent.
4Carol C 5:00 PM Feb 17, 2023
Worth the trip from Hakuba
Impressive castle on approach, a couple of acting Samurai in the queue to the castle which was fun, happy to have photos with the visitors and play along. Lots of staff directing the single file waiting visitors, shoes off we were instructed ( which was tricky as it’s winter and wet) once inside it’s all timber and dark, some interesting displays of firearms used once in the castles defence. No swords which we thought was odd. The stairs up the 6 levels are very steep, not for everyone as coming down was a bit of a challenge. I came down backwards like you would on a ladder. I’m glad we went and it’s a beautiful old castle with much history. Surround by snow capped mountains & pristine gardens There are voluntary guides at the front gate and I regret not using one. It would be good to have some stories to go with the castle Easy walk from the train station and loads of quaint shops and bars surround the castle grounds. Worth the 1.5 hour train trip from Hakuba.