Going to Meet Matsumoto Castle
To Matsumoto on the Azusa
In late December, I’m heading to Matsumoto. It’s about a 2.5-hour trip from Shinjuku on the Azusa limited express.
A winter trip to Matsumoto has me a little worried—I’m terrible with cold weather, so I’m not sure how well I’ll handle it. But I came prepared: Uniqlo heat-retaining chinos, a down coat, earmuffs, and even stick-on foot warmers in my shoes.
Matsumoto Castle in Winter
You only realize it once you’re actually here: the keep juts out so far over the moat. There aren’t even any railings around the moat.
The keep rising beyond the water looks incredibly cool… Spot-billed ducks were gliding along gracefully. And the moat was frozen, too (lol).
Up to the Keep
I’m heading up into the keep. I made it just in time for the last opening day of 2021! It looks handsome even from below.
The floors inside the keep were cold to the touch, and walking around in socks was seriously chilly. The stairs are also very steep, so if you don’t pay attention, you could easily hurt yourself, lol. Definitely go with as little luggage as possible.
From the keep, you can see beautiful mountains. There are signs telling people not to linger, but it’s so cold that nobody stays long anyway.
I learned that the katōmado is a style of window that came from China. Apparently it spread from temple architecture into castle design.
They’re wonderfully open windows. In a milder season they’d probably feel amazing, but right now, in December, they’re just plain cold (lol).
Matsumoto Castle at Night Feels Dreamlike
Matsumoto Castle was lit up at night, and it was absolutely beautiful—cold, but beautiful. The day was calm with no wind, so the reflection of the castle on the water was stunning…
At set times, there’s a laser mapping show. It lasts about 3 minutes.
It was cold, but I’m really glad I came at night! The castle stays illuminated even outside the laser show times.
I thoroughly enjoyed Matsumoto Castle at night as well.
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