Matsumoto Castle Admission Ticket
- Visit National Treasure Matsumoto Castle in Matsumoto, Nagano, with one of Japan's oldest five-story, six-floor keeps
- See the unique composite keep, linking the main keep with the Inui Sub-Tower, Tatsumi Turret and Moon-Viewing Turret
- Admire the elegant Moon-Viewing Turret with beautiful vermilion railings, symbolizing peaceful times in the Warring States period
- Choose a combo ticket adding the Former Kaichi School, the art museum, the museum, or all three
- Officially sold e-ticket: enter at the Kuromon ticket office's e-ticket entrance and show your ticket screen
- Book your Matsumoto Castle tickets on KKday and earn points to use on your next trip
Package options
Attraction Tickets
| Ticket type | E-ticket (direct entry) |
| Exhibit type | Historical exhibits, Traditional culture exhibits |
| Attraction type | History & culture, Traditional house experience |
| Tour types | None |
| Additional service & facility | Barrier free |
Product Info
What is Matsumoto Castle?
National Treasure Matsumoto Castle, the symbol of Matsumoto City in Nagano Prefecture, is Japan's oldest National Treasure castle among the existing five-story, six-floor keeps.
- Origins: the castle began as Fukashi Castle, built in the Eisho era of the Warring States period.
- Black and white: the exquisite contrast of white plaster and black lacquer stands out against the mountains of the Alps, creating a magnificent view.
- Through the seasons: enjoy seasonal scenery with the Northern Alps and the Utsukushigahara Plateau in the background.
What can I do at Matsumoto Castle?
The Matsumoto Castle admission ticket lets you enter the Honmaru Garden and the castle keep.
- Composite keep: see the castle's distinctive composite keep, where the main keep is linked with the Inui Sub-Tower, the Tatsumi Turret and the Moon-Viewing Turret.
- Moon-Viewing Turret: an elegant structure with beautiful vermilion railings, symbolizing the peaceful times of the Warring States period.
- Inside the wooden keep: the oldest existing five-story, six-floor wooden keep can only be toured by stairs, which are narrow and steep (approx. 140 steps, maximum slope approx. 61 degrees).
Should I choose a single ticket or a combo ticket for Matsumoto Castle?
Besides the castle admission ticket, combo tickets bundle Matsumoto Castle with other facilities:
- Former Kaichi School: the first National Treasure among modern school buildings; valid for 2 days from your Matsumoto Castle admission date.
- Art museum: a 200-yen-off set covering the art museum's permanent exhibition; valid for 2 days.
- Museum: a 200-yen-off set covering the museum's permanent exhibition; valid for 2 days.
- All four: Matsumoto Castle, the museum, the art museum and the Former Kaichi School, 400 yen off; valid for 3 days.
- Groups of 20 or more: group tickets are sold on the Matsumoto Castle website.
Enjoy seasonal views with the Northern Alps and Utsukushigahara Plateau in the background
Admire the exquisite beauty of the contrast between white plaster and black lacquer
Purchase Notice
Free admission
- Children: free for children under elementary school age.
- Matsumoto City residents: free entry to the Honmaru Garden by presenting ID. An admission fee is required to go up the castle keep.
- Visitors with disabilities: the visitor and one caregiver enter free by presenting a disability certificate.
Combo tickets
- Last admission: 4:30 PM for Matsumoto Castle and the Former Kaichi School.
- Entry: at Matsumoto Castle, enter through the e-ticket entrance at the Kuromon Ticket Office and present your QR code. At the Former Kaichi School, present your QR code at the ticket window.
Reminders
Please enter through the electronic ticket entrance at the Kuromon ticket office and present the ticket screen at the castle tower entrance
Depending on the congestion, communication conditions may be poor. Please take screenshots in advance
Depending on how busy it is, there may be a waiting time to enter the castle tower
Refunds and changes to reservations cannot be made on the day at the counter
We are unable to issue a certificate of use that complies with the invoice system.
Matsumoto Castle is a national treasure and the oldest existing five-story, six-floor wooden castle tower. Access to the castle tower is only via stairs. Please be aware that the stairs are narrow and steep. (Number of steps: approximately 140, maximum slope: approximately 61 degrees)
Shoes are not permitted inside the castle tower. Shoe bags are handed out at the entrance, so please put your shoes in the bag and carry it with you inside.
Please note that the Uzumimon entrance on the red Uzumibashi side is closed. The only entrance is the Black Gate
Pets are not permitted inside the Honmaru garden or the castle tower. Pets are also not permitted in bags or cages. However, assistance dogs are permitted. Please contact the management office in advance
How to Redeem Your Voucher
How to Use Your Voucher
- Please present your QR code on-site
Experience Location
Location Name: National Treasure Matsumoto Castle
Address: 4-1 Marunouchi, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture 390-0873- Regular hours: 8:30 am–5:00 pm (last entry 4:30 pm)
- Golden Week & summer extended hours: 8:00 am–6:00 pm (last entry 5:30 pm)
- First three days of the New Year: 10:00 am–3:30 pm
- Open: daily, except at the year end (December 29–31)
- Access: for how to get to Matsumoto Castle, see the official website
FAQs
1. What is Matsumoto Castle's historical significance and unique architectural features?
Matsumoto Castle is a National Treasure of Japan, renowned for having the oldest five-story castle tower in the country, built during the Sengoku period. Its most distinctive feature is its striking black exterior, earning it the nickname 'Crow Castle.' The castle's design showcases a rare composite structure, blending various architectural styles of the era, which allowed for both defense and aesthetic appeal.
2. How long does a typical visit to Matsumoto Castle and its grounds usually take?
A comprehensive visit to Matsumoto Castle, including exploring the main castle tower, Honmaru Garden, and the surrounding moats, typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. This allows ample time to navigate the interior's steep stairs, view historical artifacts, and enjoy the exterior architecture and gardens. If you plan to leisurely stroll through the adjacent castle town, allocate additional time.
3. What are the best public transportation options to reach Matsumoto Castle from Tokyo?
To reach Matsumoto Castle from Tokyo, the most efficient public transportation involves taking a train. You can take the Limited Express Azusa from Shinjuku Station directly to Matsumoto Station, which takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Alternatively, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano Station, then transfer to the Limited Express Shinano to Matsumoto Station. From Matsumoto Station, the castle is an enjoyable 15-20 minute walk.
4. Is an admission ticket required to enter Matsumoto Castle, and what does it include?
Yes, an admission ticket is required to enter the main castle tower and Honmaru Garden. The ticket grants access to explore the interior of the historic five-story castle, allowing visitors to climb to the top for panoramic views, and to stroll through the beautifully maintained Honmaru Garden. For convenient advance planning and a smooth entry experience, visitors can secure their admission tickets through KKday, which offers a straightforward booking process for national treasures like Matsumoto Castle.
5. What scenic views and unique photographic opportunities are available at Matsumoto Castle?
Matsumoto Castle offers stunning panoramic views, especially from the castle tower, where you can see the Northern Alps and Utsukushi-ga-hara Plateau. The castle's distinctive black exterior, reflected beautifully in its surrounding moats, provides excellent photographic opportunities. Seasonal scenery, such as cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant autumn leaves, or a snow-covered landscape, further enhances its picturesque appeal, making it a favorite for photographers.
6. How easily walkable is Matsumoto Castle from Matsumoto Station?
Matsumoto Castle is very easily walkable from Matsumoto Station. The walk takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes along a mostly flat and well-maintained path. The route is straightforward, often passing through pleasant streets of the charming castle town, making it a convenient and enjoyable stroll for most visitors arriving by train.
7. What makes Matsumoto Castle a highly recommended attraction for visitors to Japan?
Matsumoto Castle is highly recommended because it is one of Japan's few original castles, not a modern reconstruction, offering an authentic glimpse into samurai-era architecture and history. Its unique black exterior and original wooden interiors provide a distinct experience. Visitors can explore the castle's defenses, steep staircases, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Northern Alps, providing a rich cultural and scenic experience.
8. Are there other significant historical attractions nearby Matsumoto Castle for visitors to explore?
Yes, beyond Matsumoto Castle, visitors can explore other notable historical sites nearby. The Former Kaichi School, an important cultural property known for its distinctive Meiji-era architecture, is within walking distance. Additionally, the Matsumoto City Museum, located within the castle grounds, offers deeper insights into the city's history. The Nakamachi Street also provides a charming historical merchant district experience.
