Matsumoto 松本
Vibrant, attractive castle city
Matsumoto is an attractive city, proud of Matsumoto Castle, one of the most complete and beautiful of Japan's original castles.
The castle is an enjoyable 15-minute stroll from the station. Along the way is Nakamachi, a lively merchant area of historic white-painted buildings.
‘Frog Street’ is a pedestrian-only lane of shops and cafes in small, traditional-style buildings beside the river.
The Matsumoto City Museum of Art features works by Matsumoto-born Kusama Yayoi, whose colourful pumpkins can be seen at the ‘art island’ of Naoshima in the Inland Sea.
Matsumoto has lots of accommodation and makes an excellent base for exploring the North Alps, and heading into or out of the remote mountain valley of Kamikōchi.