Matsue Castle Just Designated as a National Treasure

Matsue Castle main tower was designated as a national treasure by the culture ministry today. 

The main tower is 30m tall. It's the second largest castle among 12 remaining castle in Japan. 

The 400 years old castle is the symbol of Matsue city and many residents are pleased the designation. 

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Preservation of Matsue Castle

Matsue Castle has been nominated for a National Treasure recently. The castle deserves for the title because it is one of the 12 remaining original castles in Japan. But if some people didn't try to preserve the castle, it would disappear now. 

The castle was once about to sell at a auction in Meiji era. For Meiji government, these castles were symbols of Tokugawa government or feudalism, so they were trying to sell castles. Buyers wanted to buy them as useful materials, like iron for nails or wood for burning fuel. 

Some wealthy farmers managed to purchase the castle and save it from destruction. Their efforts made it possible for the castle tower to survive until now and at least it was nominated as a National Treasure. 

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Increasing Visitors

Visitors to Matsue Castle have been increasing since the castle was recommended to be a national treasure in May 15. I was born and raised here, Matsue, so I'm really glad to hear the news. 

The authorities and citizens here have to use this opportunity to make the castle and our city popular tourist spot. This should boost city's economy otherwise our city can't survive this sever economic conditions. 

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Matsue Castle to be a National Treasure

Matsue Castle will become a National Treasure again. It used to be a National Treasure, but the title was once removed from the castle. 

As I belong to a volunteer guide group to the castle, I'm really glad to hear the news. I want many people to know the value of the castle. Only 12 castles still remain in the original construction. Matsue Castle is one of them. The others are not original buildings. 

In Meiji era, the castle was about to sell by Japanese government at the price of 180 yen, but some wealthy citizens bought it back to our city. I really thank to the people otherwise we don't have such a great treasure in my city for now. 

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