Matsumoto Castle is the pride and joy of Matsumoto. Being the oldest intact castle in Japan and having black color scheme (unique among Japanese castles), it is a must see if you are in the area. My recommendation is to check out the castle in 3 parts:

1) Explore Matsumoto Castle Park. It's the free area outside the castle that is always open. I've walked around the castle many times and each time I see something new and amazing. It's also a great place to meet with friends, eat your lunch, or read a book.

2) Go into the Castle Grounds, explore its gardens, and go inside the castle. Find the English tours put on by passionate Alps Language Service Association volunteers. Then, of course, gets some gifts in the gift shop.

3) Go back there at sun-set with some food, drinks, and friends, and enjoy the castle lit up with spotlights. It's lit until 10pm every night!

Highlights:
- Learning about the history of Matsumoto Castle (there is so much more than I could mention in my video!)
- Getting a photo of yourself with the red bridge and the castle in the same shot
- All the great events held there all year! Info on events is here: https://goo.gl/9Q1W1e

For more information, check out the Matsumoto Castle page on the Official Matsumoto Tourism Site:
https://goo.gl/vF6Ghg

Thanks to the following for the use of their photos in my video:
Japanexperterna (https://goo.gl/mVuGoq)
極地狐 (https://goo.gl/BFokBk)

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