Things To Do
in Matsumoto
Matsumoto is a picturesque city located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan known for its stunning views of the Northern Japan Alps. The city is famous for its well-preserved historic castle, Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's premier historic castles. Visitors can stroll through the quaint streets of Matsumoto's old town, lined with traditional wooden buildings and charming shops.
Surrounding the city are beautiful natural landscapes, making Matsumoto a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's most beautiful and well-preserved castles. Take a leisurely stroll around the surrounding park for some great photos.
Head to the Nakamachi Street to explore traditional shops and enjoy local cuisine at a quaint café. Don't forget to try some delicious soba noodles that the region is famous for.
Visit the Matsumoto Timepiece Museum to learn about the fascinating history of clocks in Japan. Wrap up your day with dinner at a local izakaya, sampling various Japanese dishes.
Start your adventure with a hike in the beautiful Kamikochi Valley, surrounded by stunning mountains. Breathe in the fresh air and take in the scenic views of the natural landscape.
After your hike, relax in a traditional onsen (hot spring) nearby and rejuvenate your body. This is the perfect way to unwind after a day of activities.
Enjoy a quiet dinner at a nearby ryokan, sampling regional kaiseki cuisine, which is a multi-course dining experience. Spend your evening soaking in the serene atmosphere of the area.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including the Japan Alps and surrounding mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites such as Matsumoto Castle.
- Less crowded compared to major cities, providing a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Good access to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and hot springs.
- Vibrant local food scene with regional specialties.
- Limited public transportation compared to larger cities.
- Less nightlife and entertainment options than urban centers.
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
- Harsh winters may be challenging for some residents.
- Smaller job market, particularly in specialized fields.
Best Activities in Matsumoto
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the beautiful Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's premier historic castles, known as the 'Crow Castle' due to its black exterior.
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Kamikochi, a picturesque valley in the Northern Japan Alps, offering hiking trails and breathtaking views.
Relax in one of the many hot springs (onsen) in the Matsumoto area, such as the popular Shirahone Onsen or Tosenkyo Onsen, surrounded by scenic landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Matsumoto with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Matsumoto
Visit one of these nice places.
One of Japan's premier historic castles with a beautiful surrounding park, offering stunning views and photo opportunities.
A charming and picturesque street lined with traditional-style buildings, perfect for capturing the essence of Matsumoto.
A serene and photogenic shrine with a peaceful atmosphere and lovely surroundings, ideal for capturing the spiritual essence of the city.
Food in Matsumoto
Matsumoto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
One of the most iconic dishes of Matsumoto, Soba noodles are made from buckwheat flour and are typically served hot or cold with a dipping sauce. Visit Yamabe for an authentic and delightful Soba experience.
Must-Try!
Considered a delicacy in the region, Basashi is thinly sliced horse meat served as sashimi. For a unique culinary experience, head to Suzuya for this local specialty.
Sansai Soba features a blend of mountain vegetables, such as ferns and edible wild plants, combined with Soba noodles. Try this dish at Shinano Restaurant for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Matsumoto better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market to discover an array of street food options, including skewered grilled meats, Takoyaki (octopus balls), and Taiyaki (fish-shaped filled pastries).
The market is a great place to sample local produce, snacks, and street food. Be sure to try Yaki Manju (grilled buns with sweet filling) and various rice crackers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to take off your shoes before entering someone's home, traditional inns (ryokan), and some restaurants in Matsumoto.
Bowing is a common form of greeting and showing respect in Matsumoto and throughout Japan. It is important to bow when meeting someone, especially in formal situations.
Japanese culture values politeness and consideration for others. Speaking softly and avoiding loud or disruptive behavior in public places is considered respectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Matsumoto with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Matsumoto
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including in Matsumoto. It is generally considered rude or unusual to tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. Good service is expected as part of the standard service provided.
In Matsumoto, as in the rest of Japan, cash is the most commonly used form of payment. Credit and debit cards are accepted at many establishments, especially in more touristy areas, but it's always a good idea to have cash on hand. Mobile payment options like Suica or Pasmo cards are also widely used for transportation and some purchases.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Matsumoto.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Matsumoto, Japan is in spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, creating a picturesque scene around the city. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as visiting Matsumoto Castle and exploring the surrounding nature.
Summer (June to August) in Matsumoto is warm and humid with occasional rain showers. It's a good time to enjoy outdoor festivals and events, such as the Taiko Drum Festival and local fireworks displays. The surrounding mountains offer opportunities for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty.
Autumn (September to November) is another great time to visit Matsumoto when the colorful foliage transforms the landscape into a stunning array of reds, oranges, and yellows. The weather is cool and comfortable, and it's an ideal time for scenic drives, visiting hot springs, and taking in the beauty of the fall foliage.
Winter (December to February) in Matsumoto brings cold temperatures and occasional snowfall, creating a winter wonderland atmosphere. This season offers opportunities for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding in the nearby resorts, as well as enjoying the festive atmosphere of Matsumoto's illuminated Castle during the holiday season.
Matsumoto at Night
Hiking in Matsumoto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful plateau located near Matsumoto, offering scenic hiking trails with views of the Northern Japan Alps.
A part of Chubu Sangaku National Park, Kamikochi features stunning mountain vistas, crystal-clear rivers, and a range of hiking trails suitable for various skill levels.
Spanning the border of Nagano and Yamanashi Prefectures, Yatsugatake offers a variety of hikes, from easy walks to challenging mountain ascents.
Known for its grand landscapes, the Tateyama region provides numerous hiking routes, including trails with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks.
A highland area rich with flora and fauna, offering walking paths and beautiful views, perfect for a leisurely hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Matsumoto through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Matsumoto by plane.
Located about 200 kilometers from Matsumoto, Narita International Airport is one of the main international gateways to Japan, serving numerous international flights.
Approximately 220 kilometers from Matsumoto, Haneda Airport is closer to Tokyo and is one of the busiest airports in the world, providing numerous domestic and international connections.
Situated around 360 kilometers from Matsumoto, Kansai International Airport serves the Osaka region and facilitates international flights.
Located about 240 kilometers from Matsumoto, Chubu Centrair International Airport serves the Nagoya region and offers various international flights.
Approximately 360 kilometers from Matsumoto, Osaka Itami Airport primarily serves domestic flights but is located in the Osaka area near Kansai International Airport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in Matsumoto, encompassing various cultural aspects of traditional and modern Japanese society.
A smaller community of residents with Korean heritage, reflecting historical migration patterns.
Includes residents with Chinese origins, contributing to the multicultural aspects of the city.
Comprises various expatriates and immigrants from countries around the world, including Southeast Asian and Western nations.
The Soul of Matsumoto
Discover the essence of Matsumoto through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Matsumoto is located near the Northern Japan Alps, making it a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months.
The area's stunning mountainous terrain attracts many mountain climbers during the warmer months, with routes available for various skill levels.
Matsumoto has numerous cycling paths and scenic routes, making it a favored spot for both recreational and competitive cycling.
Baseball is a popular sport in Japan, and Matsumoto has local teams and leagues that engage the community in this beloved pastime.
Basketball enjoys popularity among youth in Matsumoto, with schools and community centers offering facilities and programs.
Football is increasingly popular in Matsumoto, with local youth teams and clubs participating in regional leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Matsumoto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Matsumoto offer plant-based dishes, such as Tofu-based meals, vegetable tempura, and creative salads.
Visitors with gluten-free dietary needs can find suitable options at various establishments, especially when requesting customization or modifications to dishes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Matsumoto with these cultural adventures.
