Matsumoto Castle
A National Treasure of Japan
Many people in Matsumoto are just passing through on their way to the Japanese alps to
hike, camp and ski, but the castle is really worth a stop. If you are not staying the night here or you want to go straight to the castle before going to your lodging, leave your luggage at the train station. The lockers are located in the waiting room and come in various sizes. A locker that is large enough to hold two carry on bags costs 400 yen, but be warned: they only accept 100 yen coins, so make sure you have the proper change.
At the steps to the castle, you will be asked to remove your shoes and place them in a plastic bag that is provided. You will have to carry them through your tour of the castle, which normally would not be a problem, except that the stairs going to the top two floors are very narrow and steep (nothing like this would be open to the public in the US) and carrying your shoes only adds to the precariousness. Once inside, follow the proscribed route up the six floors and then back down. From the outside, the castle appears to have only five floors, but as a defense, a secret sixth floor is hidden in the middle. Along the way, there are exhibits featuring weapons, armor and artifacts with descriptions in English, and a highlight of the castle is the Moon Viewing Room, built during a period of relative peace.
Know Before You Go
The castle is open from 8:30 to 5pm and the cost is 600 yen. Plan to spend about 90 minutes here to tour the castle and grounds.
Bottom Line
If you are in Matsumoto for any amount of time, this is a must.