Matsumoto Castle (16C) is a magnificent building constructed on a stone plinth presiding at the centre of the village. Along with its moats (still filled with water today), it has an armada of defences worthy of the most impregnable of medieval castles. The moat in particular was vital for avoiding fire, the risk of which was a major disadvantage for this wooden structure. The castle is a designated National Treasure and has a remarkable keep, also wooden, which is the oldest in the country.