For travelers with tattoos, finding a bathhouse (sento) or hot spring (onsen) in Japan that welcomes tattooed guests can sometimes be a challenge. While sento tend to be a bit more lenient, many still prohibit tattoos, and onsen often have strict policies against them. To help you enjoy a relaxing soak without any worries, we’ve compiled a short list of tattoo-friendly Onsen and Sento locations in Matsumoto and the surrounding Japanese Alps. Tattoo-Friendly Onsen & Sento in Matsumoto HOT SPRINGS Biwa-no-yu (Asama-Onsen) Perhaps the most notable of Asama Onsen’s many hot springs is Biwa-no-Yu, founded in the latter part of the 17th Century. Public baths do not allow tattoos, but you can book […]
Japan is one of the most harmonious countries in the world, blending modernity with deep-rooted tradition. Japan’s large metropolises such as Tokyo and Osaka, traditional cities like Kyoto and the sumptuous landscapes offered by Mount Fuji and the idyllic countryside make Japan one of the most important tourist destinations in Asia. But why go to Matsumoto? History & Samurai The city’s Feudal Castle is one of only 5 castles in Japan designated as national treasures. It is therefore one of the finest examples of Japan’s cultural heritage and welcomes visitors all year round. Nearby historical Nawate ‘Frog’ Street and Nakamachi Shopping Street are also open to visitors and locals alike for shopping and casual dining. […]
Rice paddy art – or ‘Tambo’ Art – is a unique Japanese art form that transforms a rice field into a living canvas. Instead of paint, artists use different varieties of rice that produce grains in varying colors: green, yellow, and purple. During the planting season, seedlings are placed in carefully arranged patterns. As the plants mature, the designs become more visible, shifting in color depending on the viewing time. Throughout the season, the ever changing artwork offers an unforgettable visual experience. Rice Paddy Art in Azumino In years past, you could view a stunning example of rice paddy art in Azumino, Nagano, just a 25-minute drive from Matsumoto. A […]
The city of Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture plans to raise the adult admission price for Matsumoto Castle to ¥1,200 for a digital ticket and ¥1,300 for a physical ticket starting April 1, 2025. Revenue from the Matsumoto Castle Entry Fee tickets will be spent on preparing for natural disasters and other work on the castle, according to the municipal government. New admission Fees Notes: Starting from March, digital tickets to enter Matsumoto Castle will only be sold for assigned dates and times. E-tickets without a designated date and time will no longer be available. Cancellations will not be accepted after purchase. Make the Most of Your Visit to Matsumoto Castle […]
Matsumoto Castle will observe its annual 2024-2025 winter closure during the New Year holidays. However, nearby attractions, including the Nakamachi and Nawate districts, will remain open, offering visitors a chance to experience the festive atmosphere, explore local crafts, and enjoy seasonal treats. Below are the details of the castle’s closure dates and updated opening hours for popular attractions in Matsumoto. Matsumoto Castle Matsumoto Castle, often called the “Crow Castle” for its striking black exterior, is one of Japan’s oldest and most beautiful original castles. Built in the late 16th century, it is a prime example of a flatland castle, strategically constructed on plains rather than hills. Renowned for its elegant […]
Japanese soba noodles are made primarily from buckwheat flour with a small amount of wheat flour. Widely considered a healthy food, they are gluten-free, rich in flavonoids, and help maintain balanced blood sugar levels. Additionally, the long, slender shape of soba noodles is believed to symbolize stability and longevity. With its abundant natural resources and pure, crystal-clear water essential for soba cultivation, Nagano Prefecture is home to the Matsumoto “Shinshu Soba” Festival. Matsumoto and surrounding area are one of the largest and most well-known soba-producing regions in Japan. The Soba Festival at Matsumoto Castle The “Shinshu Soba” Festival in Nagano Prefecture is held annually in Matsumoto City every October. The […]
