Matsumoto Castle is one of the oldest castles in Japan. Fortification of the site dates back to simple wooden structures built during the Warring States period (1467–1600). The towering castle was constructed in 1594, and today it is the oldest surviving example of a castle with five external stories but six internal floors.

Matsumoto Castle was nearly torn down during the Meiji era (1868–1912) and was saved only through the work of local residents who fought for its preservation. In the years since, the castle has been designated a National Treasure in recognition of its historic value.

Guide to the Interior of the Castle

• The Keep and Its Structure
• Kuromon (Black Gate)
• Relief images of Ichikawa Ryozo and Kobayashi Unari
• Mizuno Tadanao consecration lantern
• Toda clan’s lanterns
• Ogasawara peony
• Cherry tree to which a horse was tied
• Honmaru Goten (Palace) ruins
• Boshin War Troops Memorial Monument
• Taiko-mon (Drum Gate)
• Ninomaru Goten (Palace) ruins
• Kosanji Goten (Palace) ruins
• Wakamiya Hachiman Ruins
• Photos of the member castles of the National Castle Administrator Council