Centuries-Old History & Gastronomic Appeal
Look toward the quiet valley to the east of downtown. You may not notice much besides grape fields and forested mountainsides. But the Satoyamabe area of Matsumoto is full of centuries-old history, with an alluring touch of classic architecture and gastronomic appeal.
On a hilltop at the mouth of the Yamabe Valley are the ruins of Hayashi Castle. This castle is the predecessor to famous Matsumoto Castle. Tucked into the hillside below is Kotakuji Temple, established in 1441 as the family temple of the Ogasawara clan, who ruled over the region for over 200 years. Today Kotakuji is overseen by the 30th and 31st generation Ogasawara temple priests, as they carry on their venerable 600-year-old tradition. Venture further up the valley and you’ll find more castle ruins on both sides, some dating back to the early 1300s. But this is all recent history compared to the Harizuka Kofun Burial Mound easily accessible by bicycle. This site has occupied its place in the center of the mouth of the valley for over 1,500 years!
Local ‘Shinshu’ Wine
Nearby Satoyamabe is this ancient archaeological site is a well-preserved example of Meiji Era education. The Former Yamabe Elementary School Building & Museum, where you can check out what learning was like in late 1800s Japan. Head a bit further up the valley and you’ll find the always-busy Yamabe Winery, borne of the fruits of all those sloping grape fields. If you’re lucky you might be able to try a few of the many types of wine available. During the warmer months you can grab some killer grape soft-serve ice cream. And year-round you can enjoy an exquisite lunch with an equally delicious view at their restaurant. Stop by the adjacent farmer’s market to pick up some fresh locally-grown produce (including the best apples in the world!).
And if you have the time and the means, cap off your day of centuries-old history and gastronomic appeal with a trip up to Japan’s highest plateau, the highlands of Utsukushigahara. This is where you’ll be treated to a mile-high view of Matsumoto and the northern Alps to the west and, on a clear day, a glimpse of Mt. Fuji. Not bad for this quiet valley region!
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