Matsumoto is considered to be the most beautiful castle in Japan. It was built in the end of the 16th century and is located in the town of the same name. The unofficial name of the building is very symbolic. It is called 'the castle of the ravens' because of the black façade and the fine architectural forms. Although the castle was built for the military targets, it was also concerned about its spiritual component. One of the sides of the castle was specially designed for observing the moon. The guests of the castle can also nowadays visit the so-called 'Mondgemächer'.
In the last few years, the castle was empty and under threat of demolition. The ordinary tourists have saved the castle from destruction. The close proximity to Tokyo has made the Matsumoto Palace one of the most visited architectural monuments of the capital. The main characteristic of the castle is its architecture. From the outside, the building seems to be five-storey, although there are actually six floors, the last of which is hidden behind the defenses.
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