Map of Matsumoto, Japan

🏞️ What to do in Matsumoto 🏞️

Embark on a journey of discovery in Matsumoto, where historical sites, cultural experiences, and natural wonders await. From exploring ancient castles to immersing in traditional arts, Matsumoto offers a myriad of must-try activities for every traveler.

• Best Budget Activity in Matsumoto:

  Matsumoto Castle: Visit the iconic Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's oldest original castles, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the region.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Matsumoto:

  Nakamachi Street: Wander through Nakamachi Street, lined with preserved historical buildings, quaint shops, and cafes, offering a glimpse into the city's past.

• Best Luxury Activity in Matsumoto:

  Hot Air Balloon Ride over the Alps: Soar above the breathtaking Northern Alps on a hot air balloon ride, experiencing unparalleled views of the stunning landscape.

🍽️ Where to eat in Matsumoto 🍽️

Matsumoto is a culinary paradise known for its delectable local specialties like soba noodles, oyaki dumplings, and basashi (horse meat sashimi). Dive into the city's vibrant dining scene and indulge in a gastronomic journey through its diverse flavors.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Matsumoto:

  Sobakiri Miyota•$:

  Cuisine specialty: Soba noodles crafted with precision and served in a cozy setting.

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Matsumoto:

  Yayoiya•$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Traditional Japanese cuisine with a modern twist, featuring the freshest local ingredients.

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Matsumoto:

  Daio Wasabi Farm Restaurant•$$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Fine dining experience with dishes showcasing the unique flavor of wasabi.

• Best Budget Bar in Matsumoto:

  Bar Himmel•$:

  Enjoy a refreshing sake or local beer with a side of edamame at this cozy neighborhood bar.

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Matsumoto:

  Bar Amazon•$$:

  Sip on crafted cocktails with a view of Matsumoto Castle at this trendy bar.

• Best Luxury Bar in Matsumoto:

  Bar Le Temps•$$$:

  Indulge in premium whiskeys and champagnes in an elegant setting with live music.

🏰 What to see in Matsumoto 🏰

Discover the captivating beauty and cultural heritage of Matsumoto through its iconic landmarks and historic sites. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the city's past and present as you explore these must-visit destinations.

• Matsumoto Castle:

  A stunning black and white castle, Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan's premier historic castles, dating back to the 16th century.

• Nakamachi Dori:

  Stroll through Nakamachi Dori, a charming street lined with well-preserved historic buildings, quaint cafes, and shops offering local crafts.

• Zenko-ji Temple:

  Embrace the spiritual ambiance of Zenko-ji Temple, a revered Buddhist temple known for its hidden Buddha statue and centuries-old history.

• Nawate Street:

  Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Nawate Street, a bustling alley filled with traditional shops, eateries, and galleries showcasing local art and culture.

• Matsumoto City Museum of Art:

  Explore the world of contemporary and traditional art at the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, housing a diverse collection of Japanese and international artworks.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Matsumoto 🛍️

Indulge in a shopping extravaganza in Matsumoto, where a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern trends awaits. Discover unique souvenirs, local crafts, and fashionable finds in the city's vibrant shopping districts.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Matsumoto:

  Nawate Street Market: Browse through Nawate Street Market's bustling stalls offering a variety of souvenirs, gifts, and local treats at budget-friendly prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Matsumoto:

  Nakamachi Street Shops: Explore the eclectic shops on Nakamachi Street, featuring a mix of traditional crafts, stylish boutiques, and artisanal goods perfect for mid-range budgets.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Matsumoto:

  Shinshu Matsumoto PARCO: Experience upscale shopping at Shinshu Matsumoto PARCO, a modern shopping complex offering a selection of high-end fashion brands, cosmetics, and lifestyle products.

🚆 Getting Around Matsumoto 🚍

• Public Transport

  Matsumoto offers a convenient and efficient public transportation system, including buses and trains. The local bus network covers most areas of the city and its surroundings, with fares typically starting at around 210 yen for adults. Buses run frequently throughout the day, and schedules can be easily accessed online or at bus stops. The train system, operated by JR East, connects Matsumoto to other cities like Nagano and Tokyo. Train tickets can be purchased at the station or through automated machines.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  - Matsumoto Station: Located in the heart of the city, Matsumoto Station serves as the main railway hub for both local and long-distance trains. - Matsumoto Bus Terminal: Situated adjacent to the station, the bus terminal offers a variety of bus routes connecting different parts of Matsumoto and nearby areas.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rental: For those looking for flexibility in their transportation, several car rental companies operate in Matsumoto. Providers like Toyota Rent a Car and Nippon Rent-A-Car offer a range of vehicles at prices starting from 4,000 yen per day. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: Exploring Matsumoto on two wheels is a popular option among tourists. Rental services such as Cycle Sports Center and Kusuri Bicycles provide bicycles for hire, with rates typically starting at 500 yen for a few hours or 1,000 yen for a full day.