Located in a valley at the heart of the Japanese Alps Mountain range, Azumino offers a true escape into Japan’s natural countryside. Azumino’s history, culture and beautiful landscape make it a must-see destination when visiting Matsumoto. With its vital agricultural activity, its strong local identity and picturesque mountains, Azumino is an ideal location in which to sample the best there is! A worldwide reputation thanks to the local Wasabi Azumino is best known throughout Japan and around the world for the simple reason, it has some of the best local Wasabi. The city has a unique geographical location that allows for abundant Wasabi cultivation. What sets it apart from other […]
I’d read somewhere that the huge pendulum clock on the Matsumoto Timepiece Museum was one of the largest of its kind in the world. Its pendulum was supposedly even longer than the one on London’s Big Ben. The museum’s own website claims it is the largest pendulum clock in Japan. But, failing to find an independent source to corroborate the claim, I decided to make time to go down and inquire directly. Thanks to museum manager Nishizawa-san, who pointed out various minute details of the exhibits during his gracious, impromptu personal tour, I now have answers to questions I didn’t even know I had – plus the one I had […]
When cherry blossom season arrives in Matsumoto everyone heads for the centerpiece of the town. The sight of Japan’s oldest castle tower coupled with her most famous flowers is a sight not to be missed! But hey, this isn’t the only show in town. To catch all of Matsumoto at her most beautiful head for the hills, for views of the fleeting cherry blossoms backed by the majesty of the still-snow-capped mountains. Here are three of our favorite spots. Kobo-yama While “yama” means mountain, Kobo is really just a big hill – yet it’s packed with a whole mountain’s worth of cherry blossoms. Experience what it feels like to walk […]
Japan is so chock full of beautiful mountains the hiking and climbing possibilities seem endless. But for a leisurely stroll through the best alpine scenery this country has to offer, go no further than the Kamikochi Valley in the Japanese Alps, right here in Matsumoto! With a series of flat, well-maintained walking paths and a multitude of picturesque natural and geological sights, a trip to Kamikochi and the Japanese Alps makes for an unforgettable day. Here is some of what you can expect. 1-Day Tour: Azumino & Kamikochi Valley See our Photo Gallery Yake-dake Mountain & Taisho-ike Pond The only active volcano in the entire Northern Japanese Alps range is […]
Matsumoto City has a unique environment surrounding its historic castle, which offers an authentic and enjoyable Japanese experience. However, this historic aspect of the city is not limited to its castle, but also includes the city itself, its surrounding fields and the mountain vistas, which stretch as far as the eye can see, offering a breathtaking view. Additionally, its cuisine highlights the deeply rural culture of the region. So, what could be better than experiencing the city with a local guide while enjoying a special deal? Discover the city with “Matsumoto-Experience” Matsumoto-Experience has been created in partnership with Matsumoto Tourism Association and with the support of Nagano Prefecture Community Development […]
From Japan’s oldest castle tower to the old Kaichi School building; from the traditional works at the Ukiyo-e Museum to the modern masterpieces of Yayoi Kusama, this town is home to impressive architectural and artistic achievements. But Matsumoto’s artistic works extend far beyond the famous. Here’s just a sampling of what you might find, on the street and under your feet. Keep An Eye on the Traffic As Matsumoto reworks their fleet of city buses to include smaller alternative-fuel vehicles, they’re also busy rolling out some eye-catching artwork. Some buses display the pride of Matsumoto’s natural and cultural heritage. Others display advertisements, for everything from tea to home builders to […]
