National Treasure Matsumoto Castle Kuromon Gate, Matsumoto, Nagano

About this place

Live Camera | Matsumoto Castle Kuromon Gate & Inner Moat, Matsumoto, Nagano, Japan. Guarding the northern approach to the five-roofed keep of Japan's oldest surviving castle, the grand Kuromon (Black Gate) of Matsumoto Castle radiates warlord samurai authority with its heavy dark-timber beams, stone foundations, and tile roof crests. Across the glassy moat, white swans glide past reflections of the striking black-and-white keep. Strolling into the nearby Nawate frog street, food lovers feast on jumbo garlic-soy fried Sanzoku-yaki chicken cutlets and hand-rolled Shinshu soba.

✦ Must-Visit Highlights:

▸ Majestic Samurai Castle Gate: Admire the imposing heavy timber architecture, iron-studded doors, and feudal stone walls of Kuromon.

▸ Mirror-Like Inner Moat Reflections: Photograph crystal reflections of the black timber keep and weeping willows dancing on castle waters.

▸ Crispy Matsumoto Sanzoku-Yaki: Bite into enormous, crunchy deep-fried chicken cutlets marinated in pungent garlic soy sauce at Nawate Street.