My ancestors resided in Matsumoto Castle during the Tokugawa, Ieyasu era so it was a very person visit for my son and I. I appreciated that there are many docents inside the castle as it has steep stairways and they controlled the enter/exit way. I was bit anxious climbing down the stairs, but no one rushed me or told me to hurry. They provided plastic bags for our shoes and had benches to sit on to put them back on after the tour. Outside, we luckily saw a re-enactor with our family mon (crest) on his flag and we eagerly requested a photo with him (attached). I would highly recommend visiting this National Treasure of Japan (one of the few original standing castles in Japan).

Impressive castle on approach, a couple of acting Samurai in the queue to the castle which was fun, happy to have photos with the visitors and play along. Lots of staff directing the single file waiting visitors, shoes off we were instructed ( which was tricky as it’s winter and wet) once inside it’s all timber and dark, some interesting displays of firearms used once in the castles defence. No swords which we thought was odd. The stairs up the 6 levels are very steep, not for everyone as coming down was a bit of a challenge. I came down backwards like you would on a ladder. I’m glad we went and it’s a beautiful old castle with much history. Surround by snow capped mountains & pristine gardens There are voluntary guides at the front gate and I regret not using one. It would be good to have some stories to go with the castle Easy walk from the train station and loads of quaint shops and bars surround the castle grounds. Worth the 1.5 hour train trip from Hakuba.

beautiful castle and considered a national treasure of Japan. worth a visit if you are in the nagano area. b the steps inside the castle are extremely steep though. not suitable for those with mobility difficulty. shoes are also not allowed and you will be given a plastic bag to carry your shoes along.

One of only 20or so original castles left in Japan. Beautifully maintained and now that restrictions have lifted entrance into the castle is available with ticket purchase. The climb on the almost verticals stairs inside is challenging and not recommended for people with physical disabilities. The views from the top are extraordinary. We also had a free English volunteer guide to the grounds. She was excellent.

This the black castle - one of 10 remaining fuedal castles. It is made from wood with steep stairways to defend against intruders. Don't go if you can't climb stairs. It is impressively preserved after several hundred years

We enjoyed Mount Fuji but we’re looking for something that made us feel we had found Japan, well we don’t need to look anymore as we have found it. The minute you see the Castle you know you are looking at something special and it is definitely that. Inside the castle you have to take off your shoes but the wooden building is smooth so no splinters. I preferred to keep my socks on. The steps are certainly a challenge but if you take your time and rest between floors reading the English translations then it’s possible to do. The last flight of steps to the 5th floor are the least challenging but worth it for the view. If you come to Japan then try to see one of its impressive Castles and this one gives you that feeling that you have seen something Japanese.

Had 4 hours to kill between trains. Lovely small City here which would be good place to stay. Only 30 minutes on train to Kiso. Especially good base for anyone who wants a few more Western bars and restaurants than the smaller towns can offer. Castle v impressive, tricky set of staircases to navigate , slippy in socks ! Interesting history and great views. Only short walk from the Station

WE really enjoyed the castle. The views from the top are nice, but the trick is to get there. You will need to remove your shoes before entering the castle and they will provide a plastic bag so you can carry them with you. The floors are wooden and slippery. The stairs are very steep and narrow so not everyone may make it to the top. Just take it slowly and you should be fine. There really isn't much inside the castle to see. It is more about the building's design and climbing to the top for the view.

Great experience and the most complete original castle we visited while in Japan, many have been rebuilt often due to fire. Known as the black castle, there are plenty of dramatic photo opportunities in and around the site. It is treated as a holy site, so you need to take your shoes off when you enter, this is very typical of Japanese culture and shouldn't be a surprise. Some of the stairs are very steep and you're best treated them as a ladder, so best to come down facing the steps (backwards). You're warned about this before you enter. Definitely worth the visit.

The approach to the castle couldn't be more picturesque. Surrounded by a moat with loads of huge koi carp, the castle is really a wooden defensive fortress. It absolutely looks the part. We were lucky & went straight in, but as we came out there were growing queues for entry. inside it's a bit dark and gloomy, but very interesting. if you want to, you can climb all the way to the top for some great views, but be warned that the stairs are very hard work - steep, uneven and with people coming down as you go up. Not for those with mobility problems. Definitely worth a visit.