Matsumoto, in the mountains of Nagano, is a handsome castle town and the gateway to the Northern Japan Alps. It pairs one of the country’s finest original castles with atmospheric old streets, a celebrated art museum, and easy access to the alpine valley of Kamikochi. This guide brings together our individual guides to the city and its surroundings.

Top Sights

Start at the magnificent black Matsumoto Castle, then wander the historic Nakamachi and Nawate streets nearby. Art lovers should visit the Yayoi Kusama collection at the City Museum of Art, while a day trip to Kamikochi rewards anyone who loves the mountains.

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

Getting There

Matsumoto is around two and a half to three hours from Tokyo by limited express train, and well connected to Nagano and Nagoya. The castle, old town, and museum are all within walking distance of the station, while Kamikochi is reached by train and bus.

Compact, scenic, and full of history, Matsumoto rewards a stay of one to two days. See our hotel guides below to choose where to base yourself.

Where to Stay in Matsumoto

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

For everything in one place, see The Complete Matsumoto Guide.