Visit Matsumoto Castle: Japan's oldest castle
Nagano, Japan • INR 418 - INR 716 approx.• 
Popular
Popular
Best months to visit
Apr, Aug
6°C – 20°C, mild and pleasant temperatures; cherry blossoms in full bloom; occasional spring showers, high crowds, peak season
6°C – 20°C, mild and pleasant temperatures; cherry blossoms in full bloom; occasional spring showers, high crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
Steep, narrow stairs; no elevators; not wheelchair accessible.
Steep, narrow stairs; no elevators; not wheelchair accessible.
Value for money
Medium
Authenticity is great, but crowds and price impact value.
Authenticity is great, but crowds and price impact value.
Highlights we curated for you
See what similar travellers think of this activity
C
Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Romantic Ambiance
Couples found the castle a perfect backdrop for romantic photos and shared moments.
Historical Beauty
Visitors loved the authentic feel. The original structure wowed them. A must-see!
Breathtaking Views
The views from the top were amazing. A great experience for couples looking for history.
Challenging Stairs
Couples with mobility issues found the stairs very difficult to navigate together.
Crowded Spaces
Some couples felt that crowds, especially during peak season, lessened the experience.
Price Increase
The price increase in April made some couples feel the value was diminished.
How to book
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Hours of operation
Monday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Tuesday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Wednesday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Thursday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Friday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Saturday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Sunday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
In-depth experience
May contain spoilers
Watch curated videos from fellow travellers for a glimpse of what to expect.
A duo delves into the captivating history of Matsumoto Castle!
Discover the top activities at Matsumoto including a visit to Matsumoto Castle!
Immerse yourself in the majestic splendor of Matsumoto Castle with this tourists' video.
Delve into the captivating highlights of Matsumoto Castle!
When to visit
We've analysed user reviews and geographical data, and identified the best and worst months to visit.
Month
Crowd Level
Weather
Availability
Our recommendation
December
LOW
-3-7°C
Cold winter weather with a possibility of snow. Days are short and conditions can be icy.
Cold winter weather with a possibility of snow. Days are short and conditions can be icy.
Open
No special restrictions; standard opening hours apply. Some areas may be slippery or closed during snow.
No special restrictions; standard opening hours apply. Some areas may be slippery or closed during snow.
Not recommended
Not generally recommended due to cold conditions and possible snow, but the castle exterior can look picturesque in winter.
Not generally recommended due to cold conditions and possible snow, but the castle exterior can look picturesque in winter.
January
LOW
-5-4°C
Cold and dry with occasional snowfall; crisp winter air and clear views of the Japanese Alps.
Cold and dry with occasional snowfall; crisp winter air and clear views of the Japanese Alps.
Open
Some interior areas may be colder and slippery due to ice. Layers and proper footwear recommended.
Some interior areas may be colder and slippery due to ice. Layers and proper footwear recommended.
Not recommended
Best for visitors who prefer solitude and winter scenery. The castle is open, but the experience is quieter and more austere than in other seasons.
Best for visitors who prefer solitude and winter scenery. The castle is open, but the experience is quieter and more austere than in other seasons.
February
LOW
-4-6°C
Cold with very little precipitation; clear winter skies continue, occasional snow possible.
Cold with very little precipitation; clear winter skies continue, occasional snow possible.
Open
No major restrictions, but interior may be chilly. Full access unless otherwise specified by maintenance.
No major restrictions, but interior may be chilly. Full access unless otherwise specified by maintenance.
Not recommended
Ideal for travelers seeking a tranquil visit with minimal crowds; castle accessibility is not affected by winter conditions.
Ideal for travelers seeking a tranquil visit with minimal crowds; castle accessibility is not affected by winter conditions.
March
MEDIUM
0-13°C
Temperatures begin to rise; early spring conditions with some snowmelt and a few rainy days.
Temperatures begin to rise; early spring conditions with some snowmelt and a few rainy days.
Open
No significant restrictions; grounds may be wet in places due to snowmelt.
No significant restrictions; grounds may be wet in places due to snowmelt.
Recommended
Good balance of mild weather and manageable crowds; early cherry blossoms may be visible towards the end of the month.
Good balance of mild weather and manageable crowds; early cherry blossoms may be visible towards the end of the month.
How to get there
Bus
Recommended
The Town Sneaker North Course bus departs from Matsumoto Station Oshiroguchi (Castle Exit) and stops at Matsumotojo-Shiyakushomae (Matsumoto Castle/City Hall).
Train
Recommended
Reach JR Matsumoto Station via JR Azusa or JR Shinano limited express trains from major cities like Tokyo, Nagoya, and Nagano.
Walking
Recommended
The castle is a 15-20 minute walk from JR Matsumoto Station.
Bike
Rent a bicycle from locations near JR Matsumoto Station, including the HELLO CYCLING bike-sharing service.
Car
From the Nagano Expressway, take the Matsumoto Interchange and drive approximately 3 km to the castle. Parking is available at nearby municipal lots.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available at JR Matsumoto Station for a direct trip to the castle.
Additional info
Here's what you need to know about this experience
Mobility
Wheelchair Accessible
Walking Required
Stairs Present
Seating Available
Flat Terrain
Hiking Required
Elevator Available
Mobility Scooter Friendly
Ramps Available
Pregnancy
Not suitable for pregnancy
Allowed during pregnancy
Pets
Pets not allowed
Driving
Driving License Required
Idp Required