Matsumae Castle offers a side of Japan that many international visitors never get to see. Located in southern Hokkaido, it combines samurai history, dramatic views toward the Tsugaru Strait, and one of Japan’s most remarkable cherry blossom settings.
For travelers interested in Japanese castles, history, or spring scenery, Matsumae is well worth the journey.
Quick Info
Location: Matsumae, Hokkaido Also known as: Fukuyama Castle Historic role: Castle of the Matsumae domain Current keep: Reconstructed in 1960 Museum: Matsumae Castle Museum Recommended visit: About 1–2 hours Best season: Spring, especially cherry blossom season
About Matsumae Castle
Matsumae Castle, historically known as Fukuyama Castle, stands in Matsumae at the southern tip of Hokkaido. The castle is closely connected with the Matsumae clan, which played an important role in the history of northern Japan.
The original wooden keep was destroyed by fire in 1949. The present reconstructed keep was completed in 1960 and now houses the Matsumae Castle Museum.
One particularly important survivor is the Honmaru Gate, the only remaining original architectural structure of the late-Edo-period castle. It has been designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
Highlights
The Castle Keep The reconstructed keep is Matsumae Castle’s most recognizable landmark. Today, it houses the Matsumae Castle Museum, where visitors can learn about the history of the Matsumae clan and the region.
Honmaru Gate Unlike the reconstructed keep, the Honmaru Gate is an original surviving structure from the historic castle and has been designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
Views of the Tsugaru Strait Matsumae Castle’s location near the southern tip of Hokkaido gives visitors beautiful views toward the Tsugaru Strait, creating a very different atmosphere from many castles on Japan’s main island.
Cherry Blossoms The castle is surrounded by Matsumae Park, one of Hokkaido’s best-known cherry blossom destinations. The combination of historic castle scenery and colorful blossoms makes spring an especially popular time to visit.
How to Get There
Address: 144 Matsushiro, Matsumae, Hokkaido, Japan
By Public Transportation From JR Kikonai Station, take a bus toward Matsumae and get off at Matsushiro. Matsumae Castle is about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop.
By Car The drive from JR Kikonai Station to Matsumae takes approximately 80 minutes.
Parking Free parking for visitors is available in the Teramachi area of Matsumae Park. Matsumae Castle is about a five-minute walk from the parking area.
