Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Matsumoto, Japan

The town of Matsumoto on the island of Honshu is recognized for its original castle, which is often considered one of the finest in Japan. Unfortunately, many travelers tend to overlook this destination, despite its proximity to the breathtaking Japanese Alps, which provide some of the most stunning city views in all of Japan.

One primary incentive for visiting Matsumoto is its location within a verdant valley, encircled by hills and peaks, many of which reach heights of 3,000 meters. This geographical setting offers a refreshing semi-rural alternative for those who have explored bustling urban centers such as Tokyo and Osaka.

Additionally, the town is filled with winding alleyways, adorned with unique shops selling curiosities and charming cafes. Visitors can enjoy hours of exploration on foot or by bicycle while immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere.

Here are the 15 best things to do in Matsumoto…

1. Tour Matsumoto Castle

The primary attraction in Matsumoto is Matsumoto Castle, constructed in 1614 and recognized as one of the top three most beautiful castles in Japan.

In contrast to many other castles in Japan, this original structure survived World War II. Visitors can ascend to the top of the castle and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

The castle grounds also feature an impressive gallery showcasing historical weaponry, as well as the Matsumoto City Museum, which provides an overview of the city’s history.

To reach the castle, visitors must cross an iconic bridge, one of the most picturesque sights to photograph in Japan.

2. Go for a hike

While Matsumoto might not initially come to mind as a hiking destination, stepping outside the city center reveals a range of picturesque countryside.

The outskirts are renowned for their charming onsen hot springs and traditional bathhouses, providing an opportunity to trek out of the city and unwind in the therapeutic warm waters.

Additionally, several well-known campsites are located in the vicinity, allowing for stargazing and appreciating the more rural aspects of Japan.

To explore the best hiking paths, it is advisable to obtain a map from the local Information Center, situated just south of Matsumoto Castle.

You can select from various itineraries based on your schedule and fitness levels, ranging from short walks through adjacent rice paddies to longer hikes leading to the magnificent Japanese Alps.

3. Tour Matsumoto Timepiece Museum

For a unique afternoon experience in Matsumoto, consider visiting the Matsumoto Timepiece Museum.

This museum proudly houses the largest pendulum clock in Japan, making it a noteworthy destination, along with a variety of other remarkable exhibits.

You can admire the clock outside the museum, but stepping inside reveals over 300 different timepieces and watches, some dating back to the medieval era.

The museum serves as a tribute to Japanese craftsmanship and the dedication to collecting and preserving valuable historical artifacts.

4. Try the local food

Matsumoto is acclaimed for its distinctive local delicacies.

One such dish is soba noodles, which are available throughout the country, yet they are served with a unique twist in this region.

Here, the noodles are typically accompanied by wasabi paste, a signature element that pays homage to the local wasabi production for which Matsumoto is well-known, as the plants used to make this horseradish variant thrive in the surrounding terrain.

Another noteworthy dish to sample is basashi, the Japanese term for raw horse meat.

5. Experience Asama Onsen Taimatsu Matsuri

If you are in Matsumoto at the beginning of October, do not miss this vibrant celebration, which is one of the key annual events in the town.

The festival and parade honor Asama Onsen, featuring participants marching through the streets while chanting local mantras.

One of the festival’s most remarkable highlights includes igniting bales of hay that are then rolled through the streets, culminating in a large bonfire at Misha-jinja.

6. Visit Matsumoto Open Air Architectural Museum

The Matsumoto Open Air Architectural Museum is located adjacent to the well-known Japan Ukiyo-e Museum, which often leads visitors to overlook it in favor of its more famous neighbor.

Set amidst stunning rice paddies with the mountains in the background, this museum showcases beautiful architectural pieces from both the Edo and Showa periods.

Visitors can wander through the fields and appreciate these exquisite structures, with the entire atmosphere enhanced by the imposing mountains.

7. Go shopping at Nawate-dori

Nawate-dori is renowned as the go-to destination in Matsumoto for shopping enthusiasts.

This traditional shopping street runs alongside the scenic riverbank, therefore offering a delightful setting for a stroll.

The establishments along this street feature a variety of goods, including antiques, traditional snacks, and secondhand books.

Be sure to visit the frog sculpture here, which is regarded as the official mascot of the street.

8. Visit the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum

Although the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum is not the largest cultural institution in the city, it offers valuable insights into the arts and crafts of the region.

The collection displayed here belongs to Taro Maruyama, who dedicated his life to gathering folk pieces, providing a glimpse into the lesser-known handicrafts of the past.

Guided tours are also available, where knowledgeable guides explain the significance of various pieces on exhibit.

9. Take a bus tour

If you would like to tour Matsumoto in style without dedicating extensive time to your visit, consider participating in a scenic bus tour.

The Town Sneaker Bus operates every thirty minutes from Matsumoto Station, showcasing the city’s various attractions.

Although a fee is required to disembark and explore the attractions, it is a worthwhile experience. Alternatively, you may remain aboard for a quick overview of Matsumoto.

10. Explore the Utsukushi-ga-hara Open Air Museum

Situated atop the Utsukushi-ga-hara-kogen Plateau, the Utsukushi-ga-hara Open Air Museum features a delightful sculpture garden comprising over 350 unique sculptures crafted by Japanese artisans.

One of the key attractions of this museum is its scenic countryside setting, providing opportunities for walking and enjoying the natural environment.

11. Take part in Matsumoto Bonbon

One of the most significant annual events in Matsumoto is the enchanting Matsumoto Bonbon, which takes place in early August.

Approximately 25,000 participants engage in a lively dance through the city streets, known as the bonbon dance, creating a visually stunning experience as many of the roads are narrow and winding.

It is important to note that audience participation is encouraged, so ensure you wear comfortable dancing shoes.

12. Cycle through the city

If you are looking for an active way to explore Matsumoto, renting a bicycle to navigate the town and its surrounding countryside is an excellent option.

One of the advantages of this region is the availability of bicycle rentals throughout the city, including at the Matsumoto City Museum. This provides flexibility for uncovering the city’s charms at your own pace.

13. Tour the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum

A prominent cultural institution in Matsumoto is the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum, dedicated to the traditional Japanese art of woodblock printing.

This museum holds the distinction of being the largest ukiyo-e museum globally, housing approximately 10,000 pieces in its collection.

The collection was initiated by Yoshiaki Sakai, who meticulously gathered artifacts over 200 years ago, and locals affirm that unique woodblock examples can be found here that are not available elsewhere in Japan.

Consequently, this museum is a must-see for art enthusiasts.

14. Try the tofu

While tofu might not be the first food that comes to mind in relation to Matsumoto, this humble ingredient has been produced and enjoyed in the area for centuries.

One of the finest establishments for experiencing local vegetarian and vegan cuisine is Tofu Ryori Marui, renowned for having served tofu for over 80 years and demonstrating exceptional expertise.

Their signature dish, agedashi teishoku, features exquisite silken tofu, and numerous dishes can be customized to include meat if preferred.

15. Check out the Former Kaichi School

The Former Kaichi School may not immediately seem like a fitting destination for a visit, but it is in fact a notable museum in Matsumoto.

Established in 1873, it boasts the title of the oldest school of its kind in Japan and transformed into a museum in the 1960s.

The museum highlights the educational practices of historical Japan, with the building itself serving as an exquisite representation of design elements from the Meiji Period.