12 July 2010 - I am in Matsumoto. The main reason why I am here is the Matsumoto Castle, which is over 400 years old and the oldest in Japan. It is listed as a National Treasure, but somehow not very well known. The five-roofed, six-story tower was built in 1594, so only a century years after Columbus' discovery of America. The castle has a 'moon-viewing' wing, a secret third floor and small windows that were carried over from the warring states period. Inside, it seems all thick pillars of wood and gloss black floors. One has to take off your shoes at the entrance, so the floors are well kept. Each floor is connected by steep stairs, which also provided defense against attach. From the top of the tower, there is a wonderful view on the Japanese Alps and Matsumoto city.
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