Matsumoto castle was constructed 400 years ago in Nagano, central Japan.
The frameworks were made of wood. The outer walls were plastered and black painted wood covered the plaster for preservation against the weather.
This is the main gate called Black Gate restored in 1990.
After the new central government was established in 1868, many castles in Japan became no use and were sold or destroyed. After this beautiful castle was also sold at auction, wealthy citizens in Matsumoto were afraid of its taking down and bought it back. To stop the dilapidation, people in this city established a castle preservation society in 1901 and made big repairs for 12 years. The repairments saved the castle from collapse.
This is the top structure of the main tower.
Sunshine comes in from a gable.
Insides are still kept in good condition.
The right tower with a red railing was added in a peaceful time for the purpose of moon viewing.
In every direction, I enjoyed the variety of the beautiful constructions composed of the main and sub towers.
I visited this castle in winter. It is one of the most beautiful of Japan's castles.
ReplyDeleteA stunningly beautiful building.
ReplyDeleteHello rtc, Matsumoto Castle is a miracle of architecture. It is so substantial and complicated, yet never has an aspect of heaviness or gloom. Even the black color enhances the building, rather then subdue it. I am glad that it is so beautifully preserved.
ReplyDelete--Jim
It is beautiful... I am so thankful for you commenting on one of my blogs, as it led me here. Loved seeing this.
ReplyDeleteCool castle
ReplyDeleteIt is a beautiful structure and I am so glad that it has been preserved for all to enjoy.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy castles as well. Saw quite a few when we were in England years ago. This castle looks nice and would be interesting to visit. Thanks for sharing and posting a comment on my blog. Take care!
ReplyDeleteIt's amazing castle and I'm glad that there were people who bought it back and preserved to our time.
ReplyDeleteSure it's a greatest castle in Japan.
Wow, this is one impressive building.
ReplyDeleteAmalia
xo
it is so amazing and so completely beautiful!!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad they were able to preserve this beautiful building!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the visit!
I remember seeing Rick's photos of Matsumoto Castle but they weren't nearly so fabulous as these! I need to be sure he sees them!
ReplyDeleteUm edifício majestoso e de uma beleza incrível!...
ReplyDeleteMaravilhosas imagens do mesmo! Grata por partilhar, estes encantos do seu país!
Deixo um forte abraço, e um até breve, contando voltar em meados de Outubro, após a minha habitual pausa de Verão, também aqui pela Net!
Tudo de bom!
Ana
Dearest RTC.,
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful post, not only in regard to the photos but above all for the people having the foresight to preserve this masterpiece!
Kudos to the Matsumoto citizens that bought it back and then for establishing the castle preservation society.
This way it becomes a treasure for many tourists and locals to enjoy!
Hugs,
Mariette
Impressive! I do not know how they built these things before computers and cranes.
ReplyDeleteWow, the architecture of this building is really something. It's different than any of the castles I've seen. It's pretty surrounded by water, and the landscape is so green and groomed. I love that picture of the sun coming through.
ReplyDelete~Sheri
I'm so pleased they were able to preserve this building, it's beautiful.
ReplyDeleteAll the best Jan
We visited here! What a magnificent building. We climbed to the moon-viewing tower. Matsumoto Castle was a real highlight of our trip!
ReplyDelete