Tucked away in the heart of the Japanese Alps (日本アルプス Nihon Arupusu), Matsumoto (松本) is a charming city that blends historical heritage, pristine nature, and authentic local culture. Located in Nagano Prefecture, it’s the perfect destination for travelers looking to venture off the beaten path while enjoying a peaceful mountain setting.
Alongside this article, you can also explore the city and its surroundings via the official tourism website, which offers many articles.
Why visit Matsumoto on your trip to Japan?
Matsumoto stands out for its cultural richness, easy access from major cities, and a wide range of attractions. It’s one of the few cities in Japan that still has an original feudal castle, surrounded by lively, well-preserved historic neighborhoods.
Another major draw: its proximity to breathtaking natural sites like Kamikōchi, the Nakasendō trail, and the Asama Onsen hot springs. With traditional festivals throughout the year, Matsumoto is a great place to visit in any season.
Where to stroll around Matsumoto?
Nakamachi Street (中町通り)
Just south of the castle, Nakamachi Street is known for its traditional merchant storehouses (kura) with whitewashed walls and black tiled roofs. These beautifully restored buildings now house:
- Local craft shops (ceramics, lacquerware, textiles)
- Cozy traditional cafés
- Soba noodle restaurants
- Art galleries
Don’t miss: the Kurassic-kan (蔵シック館), a free heritage center offering a deep dive into the area’s history, including a former sake brewery.
Free bike rentals are available in front of Kurassic-kan from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, a great way to explore at your own pace. More info on the street is available on this website.
Nawate Street (縄手通り): The “Frog Street”
Right across the Metoba-gawa River, this lively pedestrian street is nicknamed Kaeru-dōri (かえる通り) or “Frog Street.”
The name is a play on the word kaeru (かえる), which means both “frog” and “to return home” in Japanese — a whimsical touch for visitors taking home good memories and souvenirs.
What to see:
- Yohashira Shrine (四柱神社) – a popular spot for prayers
- Retro shops, Japanese snacks, local crafts
- Frog statues and mascots scattered throughout the street
Cultural sites and museums to visit in Matsumoto
Matsumoto Castle (松本城 Matsumoto-jō)
Nicknamed the “Crow Castle” (Karasu-jō) due to its black walls, Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan’s oldest original wooden castles, with a keep dating back to the late 1500s. Designated a National Treasure, it boasts five stunning stories and picturesque moats.
Unlike many other castles rebuilt in concrete, Matsumoto Castle remains true to its feudal roots, a rare window into Japan’s samurai era.
Best times to visit:
- Cherry blossom season (late March to mid-April)
- Nighttime light-up events held at select times of year
Annual events in the castle park include:
- Matsumoto Castle Festival (May): samurai armor parades, martial arts demos, family activities
- Taiko Drum Festival (July): powerful traditional drum concerts
- Ice Sculpture Festival (January): dazzling illuminated displays at night
- Year-End Light Displays: mid-December through early January
Matsumoto City Museum of Art (松本市美術館)
This modern art museum highlights both contemporary works and local talent, with a special focus on avant-garde artist Yayoi Kusama (草間彌生), who was born in Matsumoto.
Out front, you’ll spot her iconic giant polka-dotted pumpkin sculpture, a photo favorite.
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Mondays)
- Admission: 800 yen
Kyukaichi School (旧開智学校)
Built in 1873, this pioneering Meiji-era school showcases a blend of Western and Japanese architecture. It’s an excellent example of Japan’s modernization in the late 19th century.
- Registered as an Important Cultural Property
- Features an educational museum about Japan’s school system history
Ikegami Hyakuchikutei Teahouse (池上百竹亭)
This peaceful teahouse and garden offers a taste of Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetics. Outside of tea ceremonies, you can quietly stroll the grounds or visit the interior at your leisure.
Where to refill your water bottle in Matsumoto?
Matsumoto is known for its exceptionally pure water, sourced directly from the Japanese Alps. You’ll find free public water fountains (湧水 / yûsui) throughout the city.
Look for them:
- In Castle Park
- Along Nakamachi Street
- On Nawate Street
These locations are marked on local tourist maps available at the tourist office, around town, and at Matsumoto JR Station.
Relaxing in an Onsen in Matsumoto
About 3.5 km from the city center, Asama Onsen (浅間温泉) is a historic hot spring resort with a legacy of over 1,300 years, the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
- Access: 20 minutes by bus from Matsumoto Station or about a 1-hour walk
- Admission: 680 yen, towel rental 220 yen
- Hours: 10:00 AM to midnight
- Extras: Free foot bath in the main plaza
First time in an onsen? Check out our beginner’s guide!
Suggested one-day walking itinerary in Matsumoto
- Morning: Stroll Nakamachi Street and visit the Kurassic-kan
- Lunch: Enjoy soba on Nawate Street
- Afternoon: Explore Matsumoto Castle and the Ikegami Hyakuchikutei Teahouse
- Late Afternoon: Soak at Asama Onsen
- Evening: Head back downtown to see the castle and Metoba River illuminated
All locations are pinned on our Google Maps guide.
Rainy day Ideas in Matsumoto
Don’t let bad weather stop your adventure! Matsumoto offers plenty of indoor options:
- Matsumoto City Museum of Art: perfect for art lovers
- Kyukaichi School: fascinating and fully indoors
- Aeon Mall: a large shopping center just 15 minutes from the station, ideal for shopping or dining
How to get to Matsumoto from other cities?
Matsumoto is easily accessible by train or bus:
- From Tōkyō: JR Azusa Express from Shinjuku (2.5 hours, not fully covered by JR Pass)
- From Nagoya: JR Chūō Line (2 hours 40 minutes)
- From Nagano: JR Shinonoi Line (1 hour 40 minutes)
- From Takayama: Direct Nohi Bus (2 hours 45 minutes)
Day trips from Matsumoto
Kamikōchi: alpine paradise
Open from April to November, Kamikōchi (上高地) is a pristine valley in the Japanese Alps, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
- Access: Bus from Matsumoto (1 hour 45 minutes)
- Highlights: Azusa River walk, Kappa-bashi bridge, views of Hotaka peaks
Nakasendō trail: walk through Japan’s past
The Nakasendō (中山道) was a historic route linking Kyoto to Edo. From Matsumoto, you can easily reach two of its best-preserved post towns:
- Tsumago and Magome: traditional villages accessible via Nagiso (train + bus, ~1h15)
- Hiking Route: 8 km scenic trail between the two towns
