A view of Nagano's Matsumoto Castle in winter. Leafless trees stand in the foreground, screening our view of a flat snowy field stretching out toward the castle. The stacked rooftops of the multi-level castle are covered with fresh snow; the windows are dark and unlit. Beyond, low mountains cross the horizon, beneath a steely blue sky. Everything seems quiet and still.

A view of Nagano's Matsumoto Castle in winter. Leafless trees stand in the foreground, screening our view of a flat snowy field stretching out toward the castle. The stacked rooftops of the multi-level castle are covered with fresh snow; the windows are dark and unlit. Beyond, low mountains cross the horizon, beneath a steely blue sky. Everything seems quiet and still.