Explore Matsumoto - Japan Travel, Asia

Overview of Matsumoto

History & Cultural Influence

Matsumoto is not just another city in Japan; it’s a place where history comes alive. One of its most famous landmarks, Matsumoto Castle, dates back to the 16th century and is one of Japan's few remaining original castles. It is known as the "Crow Castle" due to its distinctive black facade that represents the city's strong ties to ancient Japan's samurai era. However, the city's historical significance doesn’t stop there. Many of its streets still retain their old-world charm, with a large number of traditional houses. The city's galleries also reflect the impact of Ukiyo-e art, particularly the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum, which houses one of the world's greatest collections of these prints.

Interaction with The Locals

Matsumoto has roughly 240,000 population, making it a mid-sized city in Nagano Prefecture. The population is a blend of locals with deep cultural roots and a growing number of newcomers drawn by the city's charm. Despite modernization, the community maintains a peaceful, small-town atmosphere, reflecting the values of Japanese rural life.

Top Attractions in Matsumoto

Matsumoto is a city brimming with cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and unique experiences. Let’s take a deeper dive into some of the top attractions that you absolutely shouldn't miss during your visit.

Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto Castle, popularly known as the "Crow Castle" for its distinctive black exterior, is one of Japan's best-preserved ancient castles and a reminder of the country's feudal era. The castle was built in the late 16th century and operated as a stronghold throughout the Warring States Period. Today, it remains one of the country’s five national treasure castles. Visitors can tour the castle’s interior, where narrow, steep staircases lead to exhibits on samurai armor and weaponry, offering a glimpse into the military strategies of the era.

Daio Wasabi Farm

Located just outside Matsumoto, the Daio Wasabi Farm is one of the largest wasabi farms in Japan. The farm is a lush, sprawling area fed by crystal-clear streams sourced from the Japanese Alps. Visitors can take a leisurely walk around the farm’s beautifully maintained paths, passing by charming wooden bridges and waterwheels that make the place feel like a scene from traditional Japan. You can also learn about the delicate cultivation process of wasabi, which requires clean, cool water to grow properly.

Kamikochi

For nature enthusiasts, Kamikochi is an unmissable destination. Situated in the Hida Mountains (part of the Japanese Alps), this stunning alpine valley is one of Japan’s most breathtaking natural wonders. The area is known for its crystal-clear waters, peaceful meadows, and dramatic mountain landscapes. Kamikochi is especially popular among hikers and nature photographers who are drawn to its serene beauty and wildlife, including monkeys and rare birds.

Japan Ukiyo-e Museum

Art enthusiasts in Matsumoto should surely visit the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum, which houses the world's biggest private collection of Ukiyo-e woodblock prints. The prints displayed here offer a unique window into Japan’s artistic and cultural history, with vivid depictions of landscapes, kabuki actors, sumo wrestlers, and scenes from everyday life. Visitors can also learn about the delicate art of woodblock printing and its role in spreading popular culture in Edo-era Japan.

Must-Try Dishes in Matsumoto

• Shinshu Soba: Famed throughout Nagano Prefecture, Shinshu Soba is a staple dish made from buckwheat grown in the area’s highlands. The noodles have a slightly nutty flavor and are served either chilled with a dipping sauce (zaru soba) or hot in a savory broth (kake soba) with tempura on the side.
• Oyaki: Oyaki are steamed or grilled dumplings filled with a variety of savory or sweet ingredients. Popular varieties include pumpkin, nozawana (pickled mustard greens), and adzuki bean paste. These hearty dumplings are perfect for a quick snack and are a beloved comfort food among locals.
• Toji Soba: Unique to the region, Toji Soba is a variation of soba noodles where diners dip them into hot broth, similar to how shabu-shabu is eaten. It’s particularly popular in the colder months and offers a warm, comforting meal experience.
• Gohei Mochi: Gohei Mochi, a traditional snack from Nagano, is the most flavorful way to experience the countryside. This grilled rice cake is skewered, covered in a sweet miso or soy sauce glaze, and grilled over an open flame, giving it a slightly smoky flavor.
• Sanzoku-yaki: A Matsumoto specialty, Sanzoku-yaki is a hearty dish of large, marinated fried chicken cutlets. Sanzoku-yaki is robust, seasoned with garlic and soy sauce, and typically served as a main dish alongside rice. The name translates to “bandit chicken,” and its bold flavors make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
• Togakushi Soba: While not exclusive to Matsumoto, Togakushi Soba is a renowned dish from the nearby Togakushi region. It features thin, firm soba noodles served cold with a rich dipping sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and dashi.

Festivals & Local Celebrations

Matsumoto’s cultural vibrancy truly comes alive through its festivals, where locals and visitors come together to celebrate the city’s traditions, music, and seasonal events. These festivals are a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the unique spirit of Matsumoto.

Matsumoto Taiko Drum Festival

One of the most energetic events in the city is the Matsumoto Taiko Drum Festival, held every summer. During this festival, the streets of Matsumoto come alive with the powerful sound of taiko drums. Performers from across Japan gather to showcase their drumming skills, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere with their synchronized beats. It’s a captivating display of traditional Japanese music that resonates through the city, drawing in large crowds.

Matsumoto Bon Bon

Another key event is the Matsumoto Bon Bon, a summer dance festival that sees the streets filled with locals and tourists alike, all dancing to the beat of the Bon Bon dance. The festival is a celebration of unity, where participants wear colorful yukata (summer kimonos) and perform the traditional dance in groups. The festival encourages everyone to join in, making it a fun and interactive way to experience Japanese culture.

Setsubun at Fukashi Shrine

During Setsubun in February, Matsumoto’s Fukashi Shrine hosts a lively event where locals throw roasted soybeans to ward off evil spirits and invite good fortune. This is a traditional celebration that marks the start of spring and provides an interesting glimpse into Japan’s spiritual customs.

What to Do in Matsumoto

• Hiking Trails in Matsumoto: Surrounded by the Japanese Alps, Matsumoto is a gateway to some of Japan’s most stunning natural landscapes. Kamikochi is a top destination for nature lovers, offering scenic hiking trails through valleys, forests, and along rivers. For a less strenuous activity, a stroll around Utsukushigahara Highlands is perfect for enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
• Cycling Tours Around Matsumoto: Matsumoto is a bike-friendly city, and renting a bicycle is one of the best ways to explore its charming streets. You can ride along the peaceful riverside paths or cycle through historical districts like Nakamachi Street.
• Experience Cultural Workshops: Try your hand at soba noodle making, or join a wasabi-picking experience at Daio Wasabi Farm. If you’re interested in the arts, woodblock printing classes inspired by Ukiyo-e are also available, giving you the chance to create your own piece of Japanese art to take home.

Shopping in Matsumoto

• Nakamachi Street: One of the most popular areas for shopping is Nakamachi Street, known for its traditional white-walled kura (storehouses). These beautiful historical buildings have been converted into stylish shops selling handmade crafts, pottery, and local textiles.
• Nawate-dori: For something a bit more quirky, Nawate-dori, also called "Frog Street," is a fun place to explore. Lined with small stalls and shops, it offers a mix of antiques, sweets, and frog-themed merchandise. It's a lively street that captures the playful side of Matsumoto’s local culture, making it a fun stop for families and casual shoppers.
• Local Markets: Matsumoto also has several local markets where you can purchase fresh produce and handmade goods. The Farmers Market near Matsumoto Castle is perfect for sampling local products like fresh vegetables, Nagano apples, and traditional snacks.

Weather in Matsumoto: Best Time to Visit

Understanding the weather in Matsumoto is essential for planning the best time to visit, especially since this scenic city experiences all four distinct seasons, each offering its own unique charm.

Spring in Matsumoto

Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit Matsumoto as the temperature is mostly between 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F). The city comes alive with cherry blossoms, especially around Matsumoto Castle and along the Metoba River. Mild temperatures make it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking in Kamikochi or cycling through the town’s charming streets.

Summer in Matsumoto 

Summer brings warm temperatures, around 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F), ideal for exploring Matsumoto’s natural beauty. It’s the best time for hiking in the Japanese Alps and enjoying the lush greenery of Kamikochi. The Matsumoto Taiko Drum Festival and the Matsumoto Bon Bon are also held during the summer months, offering visitors a chance to experience lively local culture.

Autumn in Matsumoto

Autumn is arguably the most picturesque season in Matsumoto with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). The mountains surrounding the city burst into shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating stunning views for visitors. The crisp, cool air is perfect for sightseeing or walking around the old samurai streets. Autumn is also harvest season, making it a fantastic time to enjoy local produce and dishes like Oyaki and Shinshu Soba.

Winter in Matsumoto

Winters in Matsumoto are cold and often snowy, particularly in the surrounding mountains as the temperatures range from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F). This is the time to visit nearby ski resorts or enjoy the tranquility of a snow-covered Matsumoto Castle. Winter offers a peaceful atmosphere with fewer tourists, making it ideal for those who enjoy a quieter travel experience.

Essential Travel Information

Getting Around Matsumoto

• JR Matsumoto Station: Matsumoto is well-connected with JR Matsumoto Station serving as the main transportation hub. Trains from Matsumoto connect to Tokyo and other parts of Nagano Prefecture, including the nearby Kamikochi area.
• Local Buses: The local bus system in Matsumoto is convenient for getting to outlying attractions such as Daio Wasabi Farm or the Kamikochi hiking area. Tourist passes are available, which offer unlimited rides on certain bus routes for a fixed price.
• Cycling: Matsumoto is a bike-friendly city, and cycling is a great way to explore. Bike rentals are available near Matsumoto Castle and at various shops around the city. Popular cycling routes include the riverside paths and the charming historical streets of Nakamachi.
• Taxis and Walking: Taxis are widely available in Matsumoto for those who prefer a quicker, more private option. Walking is another excellent way to explore the city, especially around Nawate-dori and Nakamachi Street, where you can immerse yourself in the local atmosphere at a leisurely pace.

ATM & Banking Services

Matsumoto offers plenty of ATM and banking services for visitors, making it easy to access cash during your stay. While many businesses in Matsumoto accept card payments, it's still advisable to carry some cash, as smaller shops and restaurants may prefer cash transactions. Currency exchange services are also available at central locations, ensuring a smooth financial experience during your trip.

Where to Stay in Matsumoto

• Ryokan (Traditional Japanese Inns): Staying at a ryokan provides an authentic Japanese experience, where you can sleep on tatami mats, enjoy a traditional kaiseki (multi-course) meal, and often relax in natural onsen (hot spring) baths.
• Hotels: Matsumoto has a range of mid-range and luxury hotels located near the city center and the train station, offering modern amenities and comfortable rooms. These hotels cater to both business and leisure travelers, providing convenience and accessibility for visitors looking for a hassle-free stay.
• Farm Stays: For a unique rural experience, consider staying at a farm stay in the surrounding countryside. These accommodations offer the chance to experience traditional Japanese farming life, often including homemade meals made from fresh local ingredients.