Matsumoto blends one of Japan’s finest original castles with atmospheric old streets, a celebrated art museum, and the alpine scenery of the Japan Alps. To make planning easy, we have gathered all of our Matsumoto content into one master guide, linking every travel guide and hotel recommendation we have published for the city and its surroundings.

How to Use This Guide

Begin with the individual guides to decide which sights and day trips appeal most, then turn to the hotel guides to choose a convenient base. The hub post ties the sightseeing together, while the hotel guides break down where to stay by area and style.

Make the Most of Matsumoto

Around three hours from Tokyo, Matsumoto rewards a stay of one to two days. That gives time for the castle, old town, and museum, plus a full day in the mountains at Kamikochi.

Matsumoto Travel Guides

• Matsumoto Castle: Japan’s Black Crow Castle
• Nakamachi and Nawate: Old-Town Matsumoto
• Kamikochi: An Alpine Day Trip from Matsumoto
• Matsumoto City Museum of Art: Yayoi Kusama’s Home

Start with our Matsumoto Travel Guide hub for an overview.

Where to Stay: Matsumoto Hotels

• Where to Stay in Matsumoto: Station & Castle Hotels
• Where to Stay in Matsumoto: Onsen Hotels & Ryokan