MATSUMOTO CASTLE GUN CORPS
Matchlock Samurai
WHO WE ARE
The Matsumoto Castle Gun Corps is a samurai performance team that formed in 1990. Since then the gunners have been celebrating hōjutsu; the way of the gun, with regular performances at festivals and events.
To do this we maintain a collection of matchlock guns that were made in the Edo-era.
We regularly practice the way of the gun and take part in gunnery exercises both in Matsumoto City; and other places in Japan.
MATCHLOCK SAMURAI
More than just skilled swordsmen, many samurai were experts with firearms.
The first western style firearms were introduced in 1543, changing the way battle was fought in feudal Japan, forever.
Sometimes referred to as a teppo, tanegashima or hinawaju, these weapons were domestically produced and frequently carried by the famed samurai of Japan.
WHERE TO SEE US
The Matsumoto Castle Gun Corps will be in action at:
Takashima Castle (Suwa City, Nagano) on 22nd of May 2022;
Matsumoto Castle (Matsumoto City, Nagano) on 5th of June 2022.
But you can still see our previous demonstrations and images online using the shortcuts on the menu bar or clicking below.
2020 Gunnery Exercise - YouTube
2021 Gunnery Exercise - YouTube
Also known as Matsumoto Teppo-tai, our displays use traditional tactics and we wear full armour. We strive to maintain the standards of our samurai heritage. Along with English commentary and explanation, we aim to be the best gunnery unit in Japan.
