Matsumoto Castle & Autumn Leaves

Today, I’m currently in Nagano focusing on an emphasis on Japan’s rich samurai history.  At the center of my photographic exploration and discussion today is Nagano’s Matsumoto Castle.  I have already enjoyed golden hour photography at this original samurai castle before breakfast while walking the castle grounds and exploring inside.  Matsumoto Castle, originally known as Fukashi Castle, was built in 1504 by Shimadashi Sadanaga; it was expanded and fortified throughout a few generations, and today you can view this Samurai Castle as it was viewed on completion in 1594.  Locally it is known as ‘Crow Castle,’ in Japanese, ‘Karasujo カラス城’,  as many of the exterior walls are painted a deep ebon, and from many perspectives on the castle grounds, it appears as if the towers are wings, spread wide to encompass all of the samurai lord’s domain.  Matsumoto Castle is one of twelve original Samurai castles that stand today and can only be viewed in The Land Of The Rising Sun.  All Japanese castles are spectacular and represent some important element of Japanese culture, Matsumoto Castle is no exception.  For nearly 300 years after its completion, and before its complete renovation during the Meiji Era, the castle was ruled by 23 lords of Matsumoto.