Matsumoto Castle Ice Sculpture Festival

― An Art Festival Where Ice Comes Alive in Midwinter ―

Japan's largest ice sculpture event, symbolizing winter in Matsumoto.
Ice sculptors gather from across the nation to create fantastical ice sculptures lining Matsumoto Castle Park and the city streets.
The winter light filtering through transparent ice and the illuminated glow of ice at night are must-see sights.
The venue also features content for all ages, including a giant slide and stage events.
Experience Matsumoto's winter, where “the cold makes it beautiful,” during these special three days.

For details, visit this website

Matsumoto Castle Projection Art

ーA spectacular world woven by National Treasure × Light Artー

A winter-only projection mapping event using Matsumoto Castle's keep as its screen.
Vibrant images themed around ukiyo-e, folding screen paintings, and Matsumoto's history and culture transform the keep.
Music and visuals fuse to create an adult-oriented art experience showcasing Matsumoto Castle in a new light.
Each screening lasts approximately 9 minutes. Enjoy it by stopping to watch or while strolling around.
This popular event lets you experience “Matsumoto Castle in winter, as seen only here.”

For details, visit this website

Matsumoto Castle New Spring Celebration

ーA Special Start to the New Year at Matsumoto Castleー

A special New Year's opening of Matsumoto Castle held only for a few days starting on New Year's Day.
The castle grounds are adorned with kadomatsu pine decorations and New Year's ornaments, creating a solemn atmosphere unlike usual.
The contrast between the clear winter blue sky and the Black Gate and keep is beautiful, making it the perfect time to capture Matsumoto Castle in photos for the New Year.
It's popular with both tourists and locals for quietly experiencing the New Year in the castle town.
It's a recommended event for trips themed around “Starting the year at Matsumoto Castle.”

For details, visit this website

Winterizing

ーMatsumoto Castle Winter Enclosures and the Castle Town's Winter Sceneryー

Traditional Winter Scenery Highlighted by Snow
The “winter enclosures” are erected to protect trees and gardens from snow.
At Matsumoto Castle Park, traditional protective work using ropes and wood is carried out.
The combination of white snow, the black castle tower, and the golden ropes creates a quiet beauty unique to winter.
When snow falls, it becomes even more fantastical, and simply walking through the castle town reveals a scene that clears the mind.
It's the perfect spot for those who want to “get away from the hustle and bustle and experience the essence of winter in Japan.”

For details, visit this website.