Matsumoto, located in Nagano Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most underrated yet stunning destinations. Famous for its historic Matsumoto Castle, charming Edo-period streets, and vibrant local culture, this city is a must-visit for travelers looking to experience traditional Japan without the crowds. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or art lover, Matsumoto offers a perfect mix of heritage, shopping, and cuisine—all in a single day.
In this one-day Matsumoto itinerary, I’ll guide you through the best things to do in Matsumoto, including:
- Visiting the iconic Matsumoto Castle (a National Treasure of Japan)
- Exploring the historic Nawate and Nakamachi Streets
- Enjoying Matsumoto’s famous handmade soba noodles
- Discovering world-class art at the Matsumoto City Museum of Art
Whether you’re visiting Matsumoto as a day trip from Tokyo, Nagano, or Takayama, or staying overnight, this itinerary ensures you make the most of your time in this picturesque city.
Morning: Exploring Matsumoto Castle & Local Soba
Visit Matsumoto Castle (松本城)
Start your day at Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful and well-preserved castles. Built in the late 16th century, it’s one of the few original castles remaining, earning it National Treasure status. Unlike many reconstructed castles, Matsumoto Castle’s interior is completely authentic, with steep wooden staircases and hidden floors once used for samurai defense.
Why You Should Visit:
- The black exterior gives it the nickname “Crow Castle,” making it one of the most photogenic castles in Japan.
- The top floor offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the distant Japanese Alps.
- Seasonal beauty: Cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant maple leaves in fall, and a snowy wonderland in winter.
💰 Admission: ¥700
🕒 Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)
📍 Location: A 15-minute walk from Matsumoto Station
Breakfast at Kobayashi Soba (小林そば店)
Matsumoto is famous for its handmade soba (buckwheat noodles), and there’s no better place to try them than at a traditional soba shop like Kobayashi Soba.
What to Order:
- Zaru Soba (Cold Soba with Dipping Sauce) – Light and refreshing.
- Tororo Soba (Soba with Grated Yam) – A Nagano specialty with a unique texture.
📍 Location: Near Matsumoto Castle
🕒 Hours: 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Late Morning: Strolling Matsumoto’s Historic Streets
Explore Nawate Street (縄手通り)
After breakfast, take a leisurely walk down Nawate Street, a charming pedestrian-only shopping street that transports you back in time.
🐸 Why You Should Visit:
- Frog-themed shops and statues – Nawate Street is affectionately called “Frog Street” due to its long history with frog folklore.
- Try local snacks – Don’t miss oyaki (steamed dumplings filled with vegetables or sweet bean paste) or taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes).
- Hidden gem: Visit Yohashira Shrine, a small but significant Shinto shrine known for its “four pillars” of good luck.
Nakamachi Street (中町通り): Shopping & Sake Tasting
Just a few minutes from Nawate Street is Nakamachi Street, known for its traditional kura-zukuri (earthen-walled storehouses) that once protected merchants from fires. Today, these buildings house craft shops, sake breweries, and cozy cafes.
🛍️ What to Do:
- Browse Matsumoto Temari, colorful handwoven thread balls, a famous local folk craft.
- Taste Nagano sake at a traditional sake brewery.
- Stop by a Japanese tea house for matcha and traditional sweets.
Afternoon: Art & Coffee Break
Lunch at Takagi Soba (たかぎ)
For lunch, dive deeper into Matsumoto’s soba culture at Takagi Soba, a shop with over 130 years of history.
What to Order:
- Wasabi Soba – Matsumoto is close to Azumino, Japan’s top wasabi-growing region, so this dish is extra fresh.
- Tempura Soba – Light, crispy tempura paired with handmade noodles.
📍 Location: Near Nakamachi Street
🕒 Hours: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Matsumoto City Museum of Art (松本市美術館)
After lunch, take a cultural break at the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, home to contemporary and traditional Japanese art.
Why You Should Visit:
- See Yayoi Kusama’s polka-dot sculptures at the entrance—she was born in Matsumoto!
- Explore rotating exhibitions showcasing Japanese modern and traditional art.
- Relax in the museum garden, a peaceful spot to recharge.
💰 Admission: ¥1,800
🕒 Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)
📍 Location: A 10-minute walk from Nakamachi Street
Coffee & Cake at Marumo Coffee (まるも喫茶店)
Rest your feet at Marumo Coffee, a cozy retro-style café inside a converted warehouse.
What to Order:
- Hand-drip coffee – Rich and bold, made fresh to order.
- Cheesecake – A local favorite, perfectly paired with coffee.
📍 Location: Nakamachi Street
🕒 Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Matsumoto is more than just a castle town – it’s a place where history, culture, and food come together to create an unforgettable experience. In just one day, you’ll explore one of Japan’s most beautiful castles, stroll through historic streets, taste incredible local cuisine, and admire world-renowned art.
This itinerary is perfect for:
- Day trippers from Tokyo, Nagano, or Takayama
- Japan first-time visitors looking for authentic culture
- Travelers seeking a blend of history, food, and art
If you’re planning a trip to Nagano Prefecture, don’t skip Matsumoto—it’s one of Japan’s most charming and underrated destinations.
How to Get to Matsumoto:
- From Tokyo: Take the JR Azusa Limited Express from Shinjuku Station (2.5 hours)
- From Nagano: Take the JR Shinonoi Line (50 minutes)
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