Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Matsumoto is a must-see for travelers seeking authenticity and picturesque landscapes. This city, rich in historical heritage, traditional streets, and culinary specialties, offers a unique experience to its visitors.
In addition to our article, you can explore the city and its surroundings through the tourism office’s website, where most articles are available in French.
Matsumoto Castle: A Historic Gem
Matsumoto Castle is undoubtedly the city's star attraction. Nicknamed the "Crow Castle" due to its black exterior, this castle is one of the few in Japan that has retained its original keep, dating back to the 1590s. Designated as a national treasure, the castle is a stunning example of Japanese feudal architecture and a living testament to the region's tumultuous history.
Beyond touring the castle, the surrounding gardens provide a perfect setting for photography, especially during the nighttime illuminations that highlight the site. The festivals held in the park throughout the year, such as taiko drum concerts, Noh theater performances, and the winter ice sculpture festival, are excellent opportunities to immerse yourself in local traditions.
The Historic Streets of Nakamachi and Nawate
The Nakamachi and Nawate streets, located south and north of the castle respectively, are remnants of Matsumoto's commercial past.
Nakamachi Street, once the bustling center for merchants and sake brewers, is now a charming promenade where old "Kura" warehouses have been transformed into craft shops and restaurants. Be sure to visit the "Kurassic-kan," a collection of historic buildings where you can explore an old sake brewery.
This English Web Site is dedicated to Nakamachi Street. You can rent bikes for free near the Kurassic-kan (9:00 AM - 8:00 PM).
Just steps away, Nawate Street, also known as "Frog Street," is a delightful pedestrian lane lined with traditional shops and small cafés. The Yohashira Shrine, built during the Meiji era, marks the entrance to this picturesque street. The name "Frog Street" comes from a Japanese wordplay, where "kaeru" means both "frog" and "return home," a playful nod for visitors taking souvenirs back home.
The Water Fountains
A unique feature of Matsumoto is the abundance of drinking water fountains, marked on city maps.
Fed by natural springs, these fountains symbolize the purity of water from the Japanese Alps. Visitors can easily refill their water bottles at locations like the castle park, Nakamachi Street, or Nawate Street—a refreshing opportunity while exploring the city.
Museums and Cultural Sites
Matsumoto is more than just its castle and historic streets. The city is home to several other interesting cultural sites:
- Matsumoto Art Museum: This museum features a fine collection of Japanese and Western art, highlighting both local and international artists. The exhibits are regularly updated, offering a fresh experience with each visit.
- Ikegami Hyakuchikutei: Located north of the castle, this historic Japanese house is a beautiful example of traditional architecture. Its serene garden and tea ceremony room (open to visitors outside of ceremonies) make it a place for relaxation and discovery.
- Kyukaichi School: The first school built in the prefecture in 1873, Kyukaichi School is a relic of the Meiji era, a period of rapid modernization in Japan. With its blend of Western and Japanese architecture, the school is now a museum and a designated national treas
Onsen: A Relaxing Break at Asama Onsen
For those seeking relaxation, Matsumoto offers a soothing experience in traditional hot springs, or onsen.
Asama Onsen, located northeast of the city, is a small spa town where you can enjoy hot baths in a tranquil setting. Accessible by bus or on foot from downtown, Asama Onsen offers a full immersion into Japan’s bathing culture.
You can purchase an entry ticket for 680 yen. Bring your own if you prefer not to pay. The facility is open from 10:00 AM to midnight, and you’ll find a free foot bath in the square outside the onsen.
A Day in Matsumoto: Suggested Itinerary
Matsumoto is a city where you can easily plan a full day of sightseeing. Here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your visit:
- Morning: Start your day at 9:40 AM with a stroll down Nakamachi Street. Visit the craft shops and the Kurassic-kan, where you can explore an old sake brewery.
- Lunch: Cross the river to Nawate Street. Take the opportunity to enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants serving soba, the local specialty of buckwheat noodles.
- Afternoon: Head to Matsumoto Castle for a comprehensive tour of this historical treasure. If time permits, finish your day with a visit to Ikegami Hyakuchikutei’s tea house.
- Evening: After a day of exploring, relax at Asama Onsen.
- Night: As night falls, don’t miss revisiting Matsumoto Castle and Nawate Street to enjoy the beautiful lights and the Metoba River.
Find all points of interest on our Google Map map.
What to Do on a Rainy Day?
If the weather doesn’t cooperate, Matsumoto offers some interesting indoor alternatives:
- Matsumoto Art Museum: Dive into the world of local and international art.
- Aeon Mall: Located a 15-minute walk from JR Matsumoto Station, this shopping center is perfect for a day of shopping and indoor relaxation.
How to Get to Matsumoto?
Matsumoto is well-connected to the major cities in the region, making it an ideal stop on a trip through the Japanese Alps. Here are the main train connections:
- From Nagoya: 2 hours and 40 minutes by JR train.
- From Nagano: 1 hour and 40 minutes by JR train.
- From Itoigawa: 2 hours and 40 minutes by JR train.
- From Takayama: 2 hours and 45 minutes by bus.
Interesting Places Around Matsumoto
Matsumoto is also an excellent starting point for exploring other fascinating sites in the Japanese Alps:
- Nakasendô Trail: This ancient postal route connecting Nagano to Kyôto offers breathtaking scenery and traditional villages like Tsumago and Magome. The train ride to Nagiso, the starting point for the hike, takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Matsumoto.
- Kamikôchi Natural Park: Accessible only from mid-April to mid-November, Kamikôchi is a true natural gem with its preserved landscapes along the Azusa River. The park is accessible by bus from Matsumoto Station, with a journey time of about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
