
Images: Daniel O'Grady
松代藩
Matsushiro Domain
森氏

Mori Clan
137,000 Koku
松平氏

Matsudaira Clan
120,000 Koku
松平氏

Matsudaira Clan
120,000 Koku
酒井氏

Sakai Clan
100,000 Koku
真田氏

Sanada Clan
88,000 Koku
松代城
Matsushiro Castle is classified as a flatland castle (its layout: Rinkakushiki), and is located in Nagano Prefecture. During the pre-modern age, it found itself within the borders of Shinano Province. It is associated with the Sanada clan. Dates in use: 1553 - 1872.
Located at a strategic location by the Chikuma river, this castle served many clans including the famed Takeda clan & later, the Sanada clan. By 1873 only the stone foundations remained but in 2003, much of the castle was restored using traditional designs & methods.
I can easily recommend this castle to visit if you are in the area. And it's not just the well-cared for remains or the tidy and rebuilt gates. The historical buildings located to the South of the castle are outstanding. Old storehouses, private residences, gates, and to top things off there's a fine school for the Samurai sons of the domain.
Timeline
1553 | The castle was built by order of Takeda Shingen. It was then known as Kaizu Castle. |
1582 | With the demise of the Takeda Clan, the Mori Clan took control of the castle. |
1603 | The Echizen branch of the Matsudaira Clan were transferred here. |
1622 | The Sanada Clan were transferred here from Ueda Castle. |
1711 | The castle was renamed Matsushiro Castle. |
1717 | All buildings were lost in a blaze. |
1862 | The Palace was rebuilt. |
1872 | The castle was abandoned & everything sold off. |
1873 | All remaining buildings were lost to arson. |
2003 | Some buildings, including the Taiko Gate were rebuilt. |
Historical recognition
Site | National Historic Site |