Matsumoto: A Gateway to the Japanese Alps

Often described as the gateway to the Japanese Alps, Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture is shaped as much by its mountains as by its past. While many travellers pass through on the way to Tokyo or the alpine resorts, those who stay discover a city shaped by samurai heritage, traditional arts and its surrounding vistas.

From the iconic architecture of Matsumoto Castle to the dainty streets of the city and the alpine valleys just beyond, Matsumoto rewards anyone willing to go beyond the all-too-familiar routes.

Matsumoto City Highlights

At the heart of the city stands Matsumoto Castle, Japan’s oldest standing original castle, and Matsumoto’s cultural anchor. Explore its steep wooden stairways and defensive design features, framed by serene moats and gardens. Later, stroll the neighbouring streets of Nakamachi, where traditional merchant houses and artisan craft shops offer a glimpse into the city’s past.

Art-lovers should not miss the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, which showcases works by the celebrated artist Yayoi Kusama, once a local to Matsumoto. Nearby, craft workshops invite visitors to try their hand at Japan’s finest art traditions. Take a trip to Ishimoto Gyokusui Lacquer studio, a small unassuming workshop run by an artist power-couple who have been in the Lacquer business for decades. Watch the intricate craft take place, in this intimate setting that few will get to experience. 

For a deeper exploration of regional craftsmanship, a short journey south leads to Kiso Hirasawa, a small post town along the historic Nakasendo route. Known for centuries as a centre of lacquerware production, its quiet streets are lined with workshops where artisans continue to sand, coat, and polish by hand. The process can take months, and the results are both practical and enduring, resulting in objects designed for daily use yet rooted in tradition.

Along the streets, look out for the charming waterways which played a defining role in Matsumoto’s history. Stop by Genchi well, a natural spring where locals come to fill bottles with the purest sweet mineral water straight from the source. 

Nawate-dori’s nostalgic Edo-period storefronts now house cafe’s, independent ateliers and stationery shops all featuring frog-themed products, a symbol of safe passages of return amongst Japanese people. The perfect spot for souvenirs for the travel-enthusiast.

Nature and the Outdoors

Step outside the city and Matsumoto quickly gives way to the mountain landscapes of the Japanese Alps

Within easy reach lies Kamikochi, a pristine alpine valley famed for the beautiful clear Azusa river, wooden suspension bridges and mountain peaks rising over 3000 meters. For a longer escapade, head up to Norikura national park, a favourite for hiking, cycling and sweeping views, or Lake Suwa, the largest lake in Nagano prefecture. Cradled by the Kisa mountains, this view may strike a familiar note, as it inspired the popular Japanese film ‘Your Name’.

For an adventure that steps into the spiritual side of Japan, the Zenkoji kaido is the perfect peaceful pilgrimage. Guided by an expert mountain guide and practising ascetic monk, you can hear about the route’s significance straight from the source. Along the way, make a stop at Shiga canyon, a hidden gem natural site nestled in the Shiga hills with Buddhist temple structures carved into the cliffside.

For those more comfortable on wheels, ditch the hiking poles for an e-bike as you glide through the rural landscapes of Azumino. In the spirit of slow travel, stop at wasabi farms and orchards meeting local specialist farmers and sampling all manner of seasonal produce, connecting to the land and traditions of the area. 

Regardless of activity level, Matsumoto’s rolling scenery hosts a myriad of activities for everyone. With so much on offer, it is no surprise this Nagano gem holds both natural and spiritual importance.

Flavours and Traditions

Matsumoto’s culinary culture is a reflection of its alpine roots. Shinshu soba, crafted from locally grown buckwheat, is a regional pride alongside mountain vegetables and soft river trout. 

Thanks to the pristine waters of the Azumino region, even the notoriously difficult to grow wasabi is able to flourish in the back gardens of locals. You won’t find wasabi this fresh elsewhere. Sample it directly accompanying handmade soba at Ikkyu-an, a local favourite. Just make sure you get there early as locals will pack the place at lunchtime. For a deeper delve still, skip the tourist crowds at Daio Wasabi Farm, and visit a small, private farm which cultivates wasabi authentically. For an afternoon pick-me-up, taste the world-class coffee at Chill Out Coffee while gazing onto a panoramic view of rice fields and alpine ridgelines from the comfort of a leather chair, or try Kita-Alps’ soft cream, straight from the farm.

Don’t leave without visiting Ishii miso brewery, one of the few remaining producers still using century-old wooden barrels for their natural fermentation, amidst most manufacturers switching to modern methods which speed up the process. As well as miso brewing, Matsumoto is also a hub for sake and recently, craft beer, with several small scale breweries worth exploring. 

For something more refined, Restaurant 367 offers a sensory dining experience built around three themes, ‘from the farm, from the sea, and from the pasture’, highlighting the best of local produce from across the Shinshu Nagano region.

A City that Stays with You

Matsumoto is the kind of place you discover, and then appreciate that you beat the crowds to it. It holds everything that travellers seek in the authentic side of Japan. 

Whether wandering grandiose castle grounds, tasting fresh wasabi harvested straight from the spring, or hiking into the heart of the Japanese Alps, Matsumoto will leave its mark in these moments of adventure.

For help with shaping your time in Matsumoto and the surrounding Alps, our team of experts are here to guide you. With years of experience and insider knowledge of Matsumoto, we design itineraries that are seamless and specially tailored in every detail. Whatever your situation, we’ll take care of it so you can simply enjoy the journey. Get in touch to plan your perfect esape.