(2024-2025) Winter Closure Notification: Matsumoto Castle and Nearby Attractions

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 architecture and breathtaking views of the Japanese Alps, the castle is a must-visit historical and cultural landmark.

The castle will be closed to visitors from December 29, 2024, to December 31, 2024, with limited operations from January 1 to January 3, 2025. Regular operations will resume on January 4, 2025.

New Year Closing Period:

From December 29, 2024 (Sun.) to December 31, 2024 (Tue.) – Closed

Special Opening Hours:

From January 1, 2025 (Wed.) to January 3, 2025 (Fri.) – open from 10:00 to 15:30

Matsumoto City Museum of Art

Well-known for its vibrant contemporary exhibits, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art showcases works by internationally acclaimed artist Yayoi Kusama, a native of Matsumoto. The museum will be closed for its annual New Year holiday this winter.

New Year Closing Period:

From December 29, 2024 (Sun.) to January 3, 2025 (Fri.) – Closed

Matsumoto City Museum

The Matsumoto City Museum is a treasure trove of local history and culture, conveniently located near the iconic Matsumoto Castle. It features exhibits on the city’s samurai heritage, traditional crafts, and historical artifacts, providing visitors with a captivating glimpse into Matsumoto’s rich past. The museum will be closed for the New Year holiday. Visitors are encouraged to plan their visit accordingly and explore its fascinating exhibits either before or after the closure.

New Year Closing Period:

From December 29, 2024 (Sun.) to January 3, 2025 (Fri.) – Closed

Ukiyo-e Museum

The Matsumoto Ukiyo-e Museum houses one of Japan’s most extensive private collections of ukiyo-e woodblock prints, featuring masterpieces by celebrated artists such as Hokusai and Hiroshige. Nestled in a tranquil setting, the museum invites visitors to admire the intricate beauty and cultural significance of this traditional art form. Please note that the museum will be closed for the New Year holiday.

New Year Closing Period:

From December 23, 2024 (Mon.) to January 3, 2025 (Fri.) – Close

Rekishi-no-Sato Open Air Museum

Located near the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum, the Matsumoto City Open-Air Architectural Museum showcases historical buildings that offer insights into Japan’s legal, industrial, and societal evolution. Highlights include a Meiji-era courthouse, a juvenile detention center, an Edo-era village house, a silk factory, and the relocated home of activist Naoe Kinoshita. Though primarily in Japanese, the exhibits provide a unique glimpse into the region’s history, set in a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path location.

New Year Closing Period:

From December 29, 2024 (Mon.) to January 3, 2025 (Fri.) – Closed

Daio Wasabi Farm

The Daio Wasabi Farm is one of Japan’s largest wasabi farms, offering stunning views of clear streams, lush wasabi fields, and the majestic Northern Alps. Visitors can enjoy fresh wasabi dishes, explore scenic walking trails, and learn about the cultivation of this iconic Japanese ingredient.

In previous years, the farm closed for the New Year holiday; however, this year it will remain open, with shortened hours only on December 31 from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM.

Former Kaichi School

The Former Kaichi School is a historical landmark in Matsumoto that once a prominent educational institution during the Meiji era. Built in 1876, the building is a remarkable example of early Western-style architecture in Japan. It has been preserved to highlight the educational history of the period. Please note that the Former Kaichi School will be closed for the New Year holiday.

New Year Closing Period:

From December 29, 2024 (Sun.) to January 3, 2025 (Fri.) – Closed

Other Destinations in Matsumoto

If you are planning to spend your New Year holiday in Matsumoto, please be aware that many venues will be closed. The 2024-2025 winter closure during the New Year holidays include other museums (not mentioned above), as well as miso and sake breweries, local craft shops, and some restaurants, may also be closed during this time. For inquiries about the holiday season, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Need an option?

We are here to help make your visit to Matsumoto unforgettable. Whether you need advice or assistance in planning your trip, feel free to reach out with any questions or requests. Our staff is happy to provide you with the best service and recommendations in Matsumoto.

Feel free to check our partner website Matsumoto-Experience! We will be happy to offer you the best of our town despite the 2024-2025 winter closure of our main tourist spots!