Located in Matsumoto, the “Crow Castle” as it is known because of its black exteriors, is one of the rare original castles left in Japan. The keep of the castle is designated a National Treasure. Completed in 1593, it was sold at auction for demolition in 1872 following the abolition of the feudal system. When residents campaigned to save to save the castle, the local government stepped in and acquired the castle for the benefit of future generations. Undergoing two renovations, 1903-1913 and 1950-1955, the castle stands as one of the premier castles in Japan. Matsumoto is located in Nagano prefecture and is  easily assessable from Tokyo.