event

2023-06-09 / Last updated : 2023-06-09 Sylvain Samurai

Witness the Samurai Gunnery Displays of Matsumoto Castle

Known throughout the world as fierce warriors and master swordsmen, samurai are synonymous with both Japan and Matsumoto. What is less well-known is that many of them were also skilled in gunnery, following the introduction of western style firearms to Japan in 1543. Twice a year, Matsumoto Castle hosts gunnery displays performed by a dedicated local group, in full samurai regalia. It’s a thrilling event that makes use of the castle’s historic grounds in bringing its celebrated history back to life with resounding noise, color and drama. Introducing Matsumoto Gun Corps Formed in 1990, Matsumoto Gun Corps was brought together under the leadership of Nishibori Taichou, who remains the leader […]
2022-08-31 / Last updated : 2022-08-31 Kevin Kato Events

Matsumoto Castle Taiko Drum Festival: One of the Most Heart-Pounding Events of the Year

The rhythmic sounds of a hundred drums filled the warm, humid evening air recently as the people of this castle town were treated to one of the most heart-pounding events of the year: the annual Matsumoto Castle Taiko Drum Festival. The Perfect Setting for a Rousing Tradition Once again the inner garden of Matsumoto Castle was transformed into the most dramatic musical venue this side of Mt.Fuji. Normally accessible only via entrance fee, on July 30th and 31st the inner ‘honmaru’ was open to the public. As the sun fell toward the northern alps and the air cooled (slightly) the crowds gathered, spread out on blankets on the ground where […]
2022-01-27 / Last updated : 2022-02-01 Kevin Kato Events

New Twists on the 2022 Matsumoto Castle Ice Sculpture Festival

The mountaintops to the west are buried in several meters of snow. At night the temps in town are dipping well below zero. Yes, winter has taken over our world again – but we’re not hibernating, we’re celebrating, with a few new twists to an annual event. Welcome to the 2022 Matsumoto Castle Ice Sculpture Festival! Breaking the Ice The fun began last Friday evening as dark descended on the town. In front of the train station and Nawate Street, at the Hana-Tokei (“Flower Clock”) Park and on the grounds of Matsumoto Castle, artists wielded chisels and chainsaws, turning rectangular blocks of ice into works of shapely, frozen splendor. These […]
2022-01-13 / Last updated : 2022-01-13 Kevin Kato Events

Lasers Light Up Matsumoto Castle in the City’s Latest Spectacle

In Matsumoto you’ll find an array of entertaining events going on throughout the year. From the Ice Sculpture Festival in winter to the summertime Bon-Bon Dance Festival, it seems there’s always something going on. Yet the good people here are always looking for new ways to spice things up, and this winter they’ve done it again. So dress warm and come out to watch as lasers light up Matsumoto Castle in the city’s latest spectacle. Firing Lasers at Japan’s Oldest Castle Tower I’ll admit I was a bit skeptical when I first heard about it. Maybe I’m old-fashioned (or boring), but spraying our town’s greatest treasure with a bunch of […]
2021-05-19 / Last updated : 2022-10-13 Sylvain Outdoor Activities

Yamato Ranch: Mingle with local Japanese residents in a unique setting

The “Mountain Horse Project” is organized by the residents of the Okada neighborhood in Matsumoto. This project aims to educate and inspire the community about nature and the environment through various activities. Local residents and visitors alike are welcome to share in all the events. Meet local residents and experience real country life in Japan at Yamato Ranch! Yamato, a former champion Originally from Hokkaido Prefecture, Yamato was a successful race horse who participated in many races, winning many medals and awards throughout his illustrious career. Yamato just celebrated his 16th birthday this year (which is middle aged in horse years). For many years Yamato has been accompanied by his […]
2020-10-09 / Last updated : 2021-12-11 Sylvain History

Matsumoto Castle: The National Treasure through Modern Times (From 1871 to now)

The scheduled end of Matsumoto Castle (1871 and 1872) From September 1870, people were allowed to enter the castle freely for the first time since its construction. Then in 1871, Matsumoto Castle was placed under the jurisdiction of the newly formed national government who sold the castle at auction in 1872. The castle keeps were then scheduled for demolition. Matsumoto Castle rescued by local residents (From 1872 to 1901) Upon hearing of the planned demolition, a group of local residents led by Ichikawa Ryozo began collecting donations and raising funds in order to save the castle from destruction. They obtained permission to organize several events around the castle. Thanks to […]