Matsumoto Castle

With its cool black and white exterior, Matsumoto Castle has earned itself the nickname “The Crow Castle”, and is one of Nagano’s icons. This is a perfect example of a feudal-era fortress, and its striking main tower is one of the few surviving original structures in Japan from the age of the samurai. Swans and carp swim under blood-red bridges in the moat surrounding the castle, and when lit up at night, the Crow Castle casts an eerie reflection onto the water. Climb the steps to the top of the tower to see amazing views of the Northern Japan Alps and Matsumoto City below.