One of national treasures, built roughly 400 years ago. Another name is "raven castle" perhaps because it's black. Usually catles were built as fortresses, so most tend to be located on hills or wherever they can see around. But Matsumoto castle is located at a bottom of a hollow which is surrounded by mountains all the side. This is very interesting.
The castle itself is not so big compared with other castles in Japan. The inside sometimes may look like a maze, but worth visiting.
Open annualy except around New year's day.

For more details, call at:

+81-(0)263-34-3000
9:00-17:00 JST from Mon.to Fri except national off.

1 hour and a half train ride from Kamishiro station (nearest station from Hayaokidori) to Matsumoto, then 15 munites walk.