Matsumoto Castle Cherry Blossoms 2027 Dates TBA
松本城の桜 — Matsumoto, Nagano (Koshinetsu)
- Typical bloom
- Dates TBA (usually: early April)
- Venue
- Matsumoto Castle (松本城)
- Scale
- ~300 cherry trees
- Official site
- visitmatsumoto.com
Around 300 cherry trees, mostly Someiyoshino and weeping varieties, frame Matsumoto Castle's black-and-white 'Crow Castle' keep and inner moat, with an evening illumination event held for about a week after the bloom declaration.
Background
Matsumoto Castle's keep, completed in the 1590s, is one of Japan's oldest surviving original castle towers and a National Treasure; its black exterior, rare among Japanese castles, makes the pink blossoms stand out with unusual contrast.
Getting there
About a 15-minute walk from JR Matsumoto Station, or a 10-minute ride on the Town Sneaker loop bus.
Tips
- Matsumoto's elevation and cooler climate mean the season runs a little later than Tokyo or Nagoya, typically the first half of April.
- The reflection of the black keep and cherry blossoms in the moat is the signature shot, best from the bridge on the castle's south side.
Frequently asked questions
- When is the best time to see Matsumoto Castle Cherry Blossoms?
- Cherry blossoms at Matsumoto Castle Cherry Blossoms typically peak from Apr 1 – Apr 10. Exact timing shifts year to year with the weather (often by a week or more), so check a real-time bloom forecast close to your trip.
- Where is Matsumoto Castle Cherry Blossoms, and how do you get there?
- Matsumoto Castle Cherry Blossoms is located at Matsumoto Castle in Matsumoto, Nagano. About a 15-minute walk from JR Matsumoto Station, or a 10-minute ride on the Town Sneaker loop bus.
- How many cherry trees are at Matsumoto Castle Cherry Blossoms?
- Matsumoto Castle Cherry Blossoms has roughly 300 cherry trees.
- Is Matsumoto Castle Cherry Blossoms free to enter, or do I need tickets?
- Most cherry blossom spots in Japan are free to enter, though some gardens and castle parks charge a small admission fee — especially during peak-season night illuminations. Check the official site for this location's exact pricing.
Last verified against the official source: Sun, August 2, 2026
Plan your trip
- 🏨 Hotels near Matsumoto Castle
- 📱 Get a Japan eSIM (Airalo) — install before you fly, connect the moment you land, no SIM swap needed
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