Located in the city of Matsumoto in Nagano prefecture, Matsumoto castle is arguably one of the most recognizable castles in Japan. Originally constructed in the 16th century, it was designated as a National Treasure of Japan in 1952. The castle’s towering, five-tiered architecture is made even more foreboding by its somber black color. Nicknamed “Karasujo”, (Crow Castle), it was cleverly designed to sow fear in the hearts of possible attackers.

In the “pages” of my “Comic Book Japan” series, Matsumoto castle dons a variety of colors that play against dramatic, psychedelic skies. By replacing the black color of the castle, my portrayals lend a fun and radical perspective to this Japanese icon.