点评:Japan has only a handful of castles that still preserve their original tenshukaku (main keep), and while Himeji Castle may be the crown jewel, Matsumoto Castle is a very close second in my book.
Nicknamed the “Crow Castle” (Karasu-jō) for its striking black exterior, it stands in stark contrast to Himeji’s elegant white silhouette, known as the “White Heron.” The dark wooden façade gives Matsumoto Castle a bold, commanding presence—especially when reflected in the surrounding moat.
Climbing to the top of the keep is not for the faint of heart—quite literally! The steep, narrow staircases are a workout, but the reward is well worth it: a breathtaking 360-degree view of the castle grounds and the Japanese Alps beyond.
Don’t miss the chance to snap a photo from the red footbridge—the vivid contrast between the bridge and the black castle makes for a picture-perfect moment. Even I managed to capture a great shot featuring Arukuma and Blair, and a friendly samurai at the gate!
Whether you're a history buff, a photographer, or just someone looking to experience authentic Japanese heritage, Matsumoto Castle is a must-visit.
翻译:日本只有少数几座城堡保留着原有的天守阁(主天守阁),虽然姬路城可能是其中的瑰宝,但松本城在我看来也紧随其后。
它因其醒目的黑色外观而被昵称为“乌城”(Karasu-jō),与姬路城优雅的白色轮廓(被称为“白鹭”)形成鲜明对比。深色木质外墙赋予松本城一种大胆、威严的气势——尤其是在倒映在周围的护城河上时。
攀登天守阁顶峰可不是胆小鬼能做到的——真的!陡峭狭窄的楼梯非常费力,但回报绝对值得:360度的壮丽景色将城堡庭院和远处的日本阿尔卑斯山尽收眼底。
不要错过从红色人行天桥上拍照的机会——桥梁和黑色城堡之间的鲜明对比,成就了完美的画面。甚至我还拍到了一张很棒的照片,照片中有阿鲁库玛和布莱尔,还有一位友善的武士站在门口!
无论您是历史爱好者、摄影师,还是只是想体验正宗日本文化遗产的人,松本城都是必游之地。