Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto Castle, located in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, is a historic Japanese castle originally known as Fukashi Castle. Its origins date back to the Sengoku period (Warring States era). The current main keep (tenshu), built from the late Azuchi–Momoyama period to the early Edo period, is one of the few remaining five-story, six-level keeps in Japan and has been designated a National Treasure, alongside Himeji Castle, Inuyama Castle, Hikone Castle, and Matsue Castle.

Unlike most other castles of its stature, Matsumoto Castle is a hirajiro (flatland castle). Among the 12 remaining original keeps in Japan, it is the only one constructed on flat land. Its layout combines enclosure-style and concentric-style designs, with the honmaru (main bailey) at the center, surrounded sequentially by the second and third baileys, all separated by moats and laid out in a square formation.

The main keep is connected to the Inui Kotenshu (small northwest tower) by a watariyagura (connecting tower). On the east side, it features the Tatsumi Tsukeyagura (southeast turret) and the Tsukimi Yagura (moon-viewing turret), forming a complex linked structure. The Tsukimi Yagura was constructed by lord Matsudaira Naomasa in anticipation of receiving Tokugawa Iemitsu during his visit to Zenkoji Temple, though the visit never occurred. This turret remains the only surviving moon-viewing tower attached to a keep, and is distinguished by its elegant red railings.

Architecturally, Matsumoto Castle reflects features from the transitional period between watchtower-style and pagoda-style keeps. While the exterior appears pagoda-like, the interior retains elements of the older watchtower structure, including a large sloped roof. Notably, the third floor has no windows and a low ceiling, creating a “hidden floor” that was historically used for concealment. The fourth and sixth floors feature white plaster walls.

The castle's outer walls are covered with wooden boards and painted black, originally using sumi ink. During restoration in the 1950s, traces of black lacquer were discovered, and the castle has since been coated in black lacquer, creating the distinctive black appearance that symbolizes Matsumoto Castle today.

The castle grounds have been designated a National Historic Site and remain a major cultural symbol and tourist attraction in Matsumoto City.