Matsumoto Castle
松本城
Matsumoto (separate city, ~50 min from Nagano) · near Matsumoto Station (15 min walk)
Matsumoto Castle in Matsumoto (separate city, ~50 min from Nagano). A striking black 'Crow Castle' and one of Japan's oldest surviving wooden keeps, where kids climb six steep interior floors past samurai armour and gun displays to the top-floor view.
Why children love it: A striking black 'Crow Castle' and one of Japan's oldest surviving wooden keeps, where kids climb six steep interior floors past samurai armour and gun displays to the top-floor view.
Honest drawbacks: The original staircases inside the keep are very steep and narrow with timed queues on busy days, so it is hard going for toddlers and impossible with a stroller.
- Best for
- Primary (5–11), Teens (12–17)
- Time to allow
- 1h
- Opening hours
- 8:30-17:00 (last entry 16:30); extended 8:00-18:00 in Golden Week and summer. Note: Matsumoto is a separate city from Nagano City.
- Price
- Surrounding park is free. Entering the keep: 1,300 yen paper ticket (1,200 yen e-ticket); elementary/junior-high 400 yen. Group rates for 20+.
- Booking
- Usually walk-in
- English
- ★★★☆☆
- Indoor / weather
- mixed
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