Kuromon 黒門
This is the structure known as the black gate (Kuro-mon). It was reconstructed in 1960 (and again in 1990) after the courtyard area was restored in 1955. Both gates (you can see the Taiko-mon in the background) are masugata style.
Matsumoto-jo is a National Treasure of Japan. Built in 1504 by Shimadachi Sadanaga of the Ogasawara clan, it served as a base for various lords until the Meiji Restoration. Although the gates and outer castle structures have been rebuilt or taken down all-together, the inner walls and main keep remain in tact. This makes Matsumoto-jo one of the most special castles in Japan--a true original. It is known as the Black Crow Castle, for it's dark color, a comparative moniker to the White Heron Castle, Himeji-jo.
Matsumoto-jo. Matsumoto, Nagano.
Kuromon 黒門
This is the structure known as the black gate (Kuro-mon). It was reconstructed in 1960 (and again in 1990) after the courtyard area was restored in 1955. Both gates (you can see the Taiko-mon in the background) are masugata style.
Matsumoto-jo is a National Treasure of Japan. Built in 1504 by Shimadachi Sadanaga of the Ogasawara clan, it served as a base for various lords until the Meiji Restoration. Although the gates and outer castle structures have been rebuilt or taken down all-together, the inner walls and main keep remain in tact. This makes Matsumoto-jo one of the most special castles in Japan--a true original. It is known as the Black Crow Castle, for it's dark color, a comparative moniker to the White Heron Castle, Himeji-jo.
Matsumoto-jo. Matsumoto, Nagano.