Matsumoto Castle — Black Fortress of the Alps

**Photography timing:** The classic reflection shot requires calm water in the moat. Best conditions: early morning (8:30–9:30 opening) before wind picks up, or dusk (last entry 16:30). Spring (April 5–15) adds cherry blossoms; autumn (early November) adds maple trees and Alpine backdrop. **Climbing strategy:** The donjon has six floors connected by near-vertical wooden staircases (some 60-degree incline). Wear shoes you can slip off easily (shoes removed on 4th floor). The 3rd floor has the steepest climb; take your time. Average ascent/descent: 30 minutes. Avoid weekends/holidays when interior bottlenecks create 20+ minute waits per floor. **Night illumination:** The castle is illuminated nightly (sunset–22:00) with seasonal color changes. Free to view from outside moat. January–February features ice sculpture festivals in the park. **Combination tickets:** The ¥1,000 combo ticket includes castle + Matsumoto City Museum (samurai history) + former Kaichi School (Meiji-era Western architecture). The school building, a 5-minute walk, is Japan's oldest elementary school (1876) and worth 20 minutes.