Taking great photos is easy, with an unobstructed view of the existing castle tower.

Matsumoto Castle, one of the existing castle towers, is also a national treasure. It's not too difficult to take photos without people in them, because the castle tower is right across the moat with no obstructions. Avoiding modern buildings in the background is also not too hard. I visited the castle tower six years ago, and it was early in the morning, so there was no need to wait. This time, it was already posted that there would be a 30-minute wait. From Ninomaru onwards, it's a paid area. If you think going up is just for a higher view and a different perspective, like me, you can walk along the moat and still take great photos. It's about a 15-minute walk from Matsumoto Station.