MATSUMOTO

Matsumoto is a historic city renowned for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture and rich cultural heritage. The city's centerpiece is Matsumoto Castle, a National Treasure and one of Japan's few remaining original castles, notable for its striking black exterior and unique flatland construction.

✦ Matsumoto Castle - See Japans Black Lacquer Castle

9 minutes by car from Asama Onsen Izumiso - directions
Open: 8:30am ~ 4:30pm
Closed: No Closures

Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan’s most iconic and well-preserved historic castles. Known as "Crow Castle" due to its striking black lacquer exterior, it dates back to the late 16th century and is a prime example of a hirajiro, or flatland castle, built on plains rather than a hill or mountain.

Cost: Adult ¥700 / Child (5+) ¥210

• Matsumoto Castle Tour and Samurai Experience

Meeting Place - directions 
Nearby Parking Lot - directions (only 1,000 yen and smaller notes are accepted - Cash Only - 1,200 yen per day)
Experience the life of a samurai in an actual feudal castle in Matsumoto, Japan! Matsumoto Castle is a designated “National Treasure” thanks to its well preserved historic structure. We’ll get a chance to step inside to learn about the life of the samurai lords who lived here, the castle’s defensive strategies and the history of the city. Afterwards, get a hands-on sword fighting lesson with your own hand-picked sword and samurai outfit.

Start Time: Meet at main gate at 9:15am
Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $432.03 for whole group
Prior Reservation is Required - booking confirmation

Explore Nakamachi-dori and ‘Frog Street’

Nearby Parking Lot - directions (300 yen per hour)

Nakamachi-dor is a preserved street with hundreds of years of history. Presently, Nakamachi has a variety of shops including folk art shops, craft shops and restaurants, and cafes.

Running parallel to Nakamachi across the river lies "Frog Street", a pedestrian-only lane of shops and cafes housed in small, traditional-style buildings. The street got its nickname in the Meiji Period after the construction of Yohashira Shrine for which it serves as the main approach.

• Torinoko - Folk Art

  40m / 1 minute on foot from Parking Lot - directions
  Open: 10:00am ~ 5:00pm
  Closed: No Closures

Torinoko is a delightful artisan shop near Ihara in Matsumoto, Japan, offering a curated selection of handmade goods and local crafts. Known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, Torinoko showcases a range of items, from textiles and ceramics to unique homewares, often featuring works by local artists.

• Ihara - Lacquerware

  42m/ 1 minute on foot from Torinoko - directions
  Open: 10:00am ~ 6:30pm
  Closed: Wednesdays

  Ihara is a renowned lacquerware shop in Matsumoto, Japan, celebrated for its exquisite craftsmanship and dedication to traditional Japanese artistry. The shop specializes in creating elegant and durable lacquerware, including tableware and decorative items, using time-honored techniques. Visitors can admire the intricate designs and high-quality finishes, making Ihara a must-visit destination for those seeking unique, handcrafted souvenirs or a deeper appreciation of Japanese craftsmanship.

• Nabeya - Japanese Home Decor and Tatami

  70m / 1 minute on foot from Ihara - directions
  Open: 10:00am ~ 6:00pm
  Closed: Wednesdays

• Nabeya specializes in traditional Japanese interior design elements. It offers a range of beautifully crafted tatami mats, shoji screens, and other home decor items that bring an authentic touch of Japan's aesthetic to any space. Known for its high-quality materials and attention to detail, Nabeya helps customers create serene, harmonious environments inspired by Japanese living.

• Sekiya - Stationary

  13m / 1 minute on foot from Nabeya - directions
  Open: 10:00am ~ 6:00pm
  Closed: Sundays

  Sekiya Stationery offers an exceptional selection of high-quality stationery and writing supplies. Known for its curated collection, the store features everything from elegant Japanese papers and handcrafted notebooks to exquisite pens and inks. Sekiya blends tradition with modern design, making it a haven for stationery enthusiasts and those seeking thoughtful gifts.

• Matusmoto City Museum of Art - Yayoi Kusama Exhibit

  650m / 9 minutes on foot from Sekiya - directions
  Open: 9:00am ~ 5:00pm
  Closed: Mondays

  The Matsumoto City Museum of Art is a vibrant cultural hub in Matsumoto, Japan, renowned for celebrating contemporary and traditional art. The museum's most prominent feature is its permanent collection dedicated to Yayoi Kusama, a Matsumoto native, showcasing her iconic polka dots and avant-garde installations. In addition to Kusama's works, the museum hosts rotating exhibitions highlighting diverse art forms and artists.

  Cost: Adults ¥410

• 🍴GUSUKU - Okinawan Cuisine

55m / 1 minute on foot from Sekiya - directions
Open: 11:00am ~ 10:00pm
Closed: Mondays

GUSUKU is a restaurant located in Matsumoto, Japan, known for its warm ambiance and traditional Okinawan cuisine. The restaurant specializes in dishes that highlight the flavors of Okinawa, using locally sourced ingredients to craft its unique meals.