Matsumoto
Japan · Nagano · 580 m
Description
Matsumoto (松本市) is a historic castle city in Nagano Prefecture and an important gateway to the Japanese Alps. The city is best known for the impressive Matsumoto Castle, nicknamed the “Crow Castle” for its distinctive black exterior and regarded as one of Japan’s finest surviving historic castles. Matsumoto combines traditional districts such as Nakamachi with a vibrant arts scene centered around locally born artist Yayoi Kusama, regional cuisine, and traditional onsen. Surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, the city is also an ideal base for excursions and hiking in the Kamikōchi Valley. Matsumoto offers a distinctive blend of Japanese history, art, and alpine nature.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 3 days (optimal 2 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: April – May or October – November
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Matsumoto Castle
- Nakamachi historic merchant district
- Matsumoto City Museum of Art
- Kamikochi alpine valley (April - November)(Day trip)
- Kamikochi hiking (April - November)(Day trip)
- Nawate-dori Street
- Matsumoto Castle cherry blossoms (April)
- Matsumoto Castle autumn foliage (October - November)
- Former Kaichi School
- Matsumoto City Museum
- Yohashira Shrine
- Genchi Well
- Asama Onsen
- Utsukushigahara Onsen
- Utsukushigahara Highlands(Day trip)
- Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum(Day trip)
- Norikura Kogen(Day trip)
- Mount Norikura hiking (July - October)(Day trip)
- Norikura Kogen waterfalls(Day trip)
Getting there
- Airports:
- MMJ
- Train stations:
- Matsumoto