Many lovers of travel are sure that the most beautiful castles and fortresses are in the ancient cities of Europe. This is a great misconception, Japan also boasts a large number of masterpieces of architecture from past eras. One of them is Matsumoto Castle. In 2004 this monument of architecture celebrated its 500th anniversary.
Construction of Matsumoto Castle
In the Middle Ages, Japan was a disjointed state. On its territory there were several clans constantly arguing for power and land among themselves. According to historical documents, the first fort on the site of the modern city of Matsumoto was built in 1504. In 1593-1594 the castle of Matsumoto Karasu-jo was built. Its name can be literally translated into Russian as "Black Crow". Most likely, the citadel got its name because of the color of the walls, by analogy with the "White Heron" - another well-known Japanese fortification. An alternative explanation for the name of the castle is its architectural form, reminiscent of a bird spreading its wings.
Restructuring Karasu-jo
Originally, one central tower was erected. Matsumoto Castle was built mainly of wood. He reliably defended the soldiers from opponents armed with firearms and small arms. But in this case, the fort could suffer considerably when fired from artillery guns. To protect the main tower were built fortress walls. Preliminary calculations were carried out, allowing to calculate the necessary distance to protect the citadel from cannon shots. As a natural protection, the swamps surrounding the castle served as well. In 1614, another fortified tower was built in Matsumoto. In 1635 the citadel is being rebuilt again. At this time, internecine wars in the country cease. The new tower is erected to admire the owner of the castle behind the moon. In the future Karasu-jo was not significantly rebuilt. In its unchanged form it has come down to our days and has been turned into a museum.
Description and interesting features
Black Raven, or Matsumoto Castle (Japan) is a unique masterpiece of architecture for its period. Fortifications were usually built in the mountains or on high hills. The same castle is on the plain, in the swampy terrain. What is noteworthy, the six-level building has 5 wooden pillars for 5 centuries already. The total area of the castle is 390 thousand square meters. Meters. The walls of the citadel have many loopholes of various sizes. Among themselves, all the towers are connected by passages. Since 1950, the castle of Karasu-jo has been opened for tourists, a complete restoration was carried out beforehand. Today, not only excursions are held here, but also historical festivals and folk festivals.
Matsumoto Castle (Japan): description
Each of the six tiers of the fortress is decorated in its own style. The floors of the citadel differ also for their functional purpose. The first three tiers were originally used to store food and ammunition, and the garrison was also located here. The fourth floor belonged to the owner of the castle and his family, there were living quarters. The fifth tier was the command post of military commanders. The last, sixth floor was used to observe the course of the battle. Matsumoto Castle inside resembles an intricate labyrinth. Stairs are located in a chaotic order, very narrow, and sometimes too low. And this is not a mistake in the calculations of medieval architects, but a brilliant decision. Japanese samurai were notable for their short stature and graceful physique. As for the architecture of the stairs, they are randomly arranged so that in case of capturing the castle, enemy wars are lost and lost. Thanks to this decision, the defenders of the citadel themselves gain a significant advantage in defense.
The Moon Tower
One of the most romantic places in the territory of Karasu-jo is the Tsukimi Yagura tower. This building was erected specially to observe the moon. The Japanese always paid special attention to nature. The study of celestial bodies was also of interest to this people since ancient times. What is noteworthy, and in our days in the fall a traditional lunar festival is held. During this event, the tower Tsukimi Yagur is open to all comers. Guests are invited to admire the moon, drink sake and listen to the fascinating story of this holiday. It is worth noting that the view from the ancient observatory really opens up magical.
The modern museum
Today , tourists can not only admire the architecture of the castle from the outside, but also to visit inside. On the second floor of the main tower is the Teppo Gura Museum. His permanent exhibition presents unique examples of weapons and armor of various periods. The exhibits were collected by the private collector Akahane Mitizig, and presented to the same museum. On the remaining floors of the main tower you can admire the reconstructed interiors and learn many interesting facts from the history of this landmark. Visit the castle Matsumoto can be for 520 yen (260 rubles.). There are discounts for children and privileged categories of citizens. Today Matsumoto Castle is included in the list of national treasures of Japan - the most valuable and interesting historical monuments of architecture.
Useful information for tourists
Most travel enthusiasts prefer to visit Japan in the spring, during the cherry blossom. And indeed, the gardens of the Land of the Rising Sun at this time look fantastic. But if your main excursion goal is Matsumoto Castle, photos of this landmark will be no less interesting in any other season. Around the ancient citadel there is a landscaped garden park. The protective ditches around the castle are filled with water. In them float colored carps, black and white swans. Visit the castle Karasu-jo makes sense in the autumn, at this time the moon is celebrated. Everyone can visit Tsukimi Yagur Tower and take part in the solemn ceremony of observing the night sky. Where is Matsumoto Castle, how to get to it by tourists? Many travel agencies offer excursions with a transfer to this famous landmark. By your own way, you can get to Matsumoto station, and then go on foot. You can visit the castle any day of the week. The museum closes only for a short summer vacation, from December 29 to January 3. In summer, the entrance to the castle grounds is open until 18.00. In winter, visit the landmark can be until 5 pm. Periodically, various historical festivals, theatrical concerts and other events are held in Matsumoto. To attend such an event, it may be necessary to pre-book tickets. Watch out for the poster and do not miss interesting events.