FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick facts and practical answers to help you plan your day at the Crow Castle.
How much is the entrance fee for Matsumoto Castle?
Adult timed e-tickets cost 1,200 JPY. Same-day paper tickets cost 1,300 JPY. Children aged 6 to 15 enter for 400 JPY. Children 5 and under are free. Learn more on our Tickets page.
What are the opening hours for Matsumoto Castle?
The grounds open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The site is closed from December 29 to 31.
How long does it take to tour Matsumoto Castle?
A standard interior tour takes 45 to 60 minutes. Allow 20 extra minutes for the Honmaru Garden.
Is Matsumoto Castle wheelchair accessible?
No. The historic wooden keep is not wheelchair accessible. Visitors must climb steep stairs. Strollers are also prohibited inside.
How do I get to Matsumoto Castle from Tokyo?
Board the Limited Express Azusa at Shinjuku Station. The ride to Matsumoto Station takes 2 hours and 35 minutes. Tickets cost 6,600 JPY. Read Transport Guide for details.
How steep are the stairs inside Matsumoto Castle?
The stairs reach a maximum incline of 61 degrees. You must climb roughly 140 wooden steps to reach the top floor. Read Climbing the Stairs to prepare.
What is a samurai experience at Matsumoto Castle?
Local dojos offer hands-on classes where you wear period clothing and learn katana sword fighting. Guided packages start around 13,400 JPY. Find options on our Tickets page.
Are there cherry blossoms at Matsumoto Castle?
Yes. Cherry blossoms bloom heavily around the outer moat. April is the best time to see them.
Why is Matsumoto Castle called the Crow Castle?
The nickname 'Crow Castle' (Karasu-jō) comes from its dramatic black exterior siding. This dark flatland design contrasts heavily with white hilltop fortresses. See Matsumoto vs Himeji.
When was Matsumoto Castle built?
The main keep was constructed between 1593 and 1594. It is Japan's oldest surviving five-tiered, six-story keep.