2025-09-25 / Last updated : 2025-09-25 Sylvain Sightseeing

How to Get to Kamikochi from Matsumoto via Shin-Shimashima

Kamikochi National Park draws visitors to some of Japan’s most pristine mountain scenery. Visiting the national park requires a two-part journey from Matsumoto. First by train to Shin-Shimashima Station, then by bus into the protected mountain valley. While most travelers treat Shin-Shimashima as just a transfer point, this small mountain station offers a few pleasant diversions worth exploring before you continue to Kamikochi. The Route to Kamikochi The journey begins at Matsumoto Station, where the Kamikochi Line departs from inside the main station complex. Though not part of the JR network, the line is clearly marked and ticket machines are easy to locate once you’re inside the station. The scenic […]
2025-09-18 / Last updated : 2025-09-18 Sylvain Sightseeing

Narai-juku on the Nakasendo Road: A Living Time Capsule

Tucked away in the scenic Kiso Valley, about an hour’s train ride from Matsumoto, Narai-juku is one of the best-preserved post towns along the historic Nakasendo, the Edo-period highway that once connected Kyoto and Edo (modern-day Tokyo). Known as the “Narai of a Thousand Houses,” it was the wealthiest and longest of the eleven post towns in the region. Today, it offers a striking window into the past. Tradition and history are still etched into every wooden beam and street of the village. A Living Historic Post Town What sets Narai-juku apart is that it isn’t just preserved, it’s alive. People still live and work here, maintaining wooden homes and […]
2025-08-27 / Last updated : 2025-08-27 Tom Taylor History

Life Outside the Castle Walls: A Glimpse into Feudal Japan

When we think of feudal Japan, it’s often the image of samurai, castles, and great battles that comes to mind. But beyond the armored warriors and shifting power struggles, daily life for most people unfolded quietly in the fields, towns, and alleyways far from the shogun’s court. Farmers, artisans, and merchants made up the foundation of society, living lives shaped more by the seasons than by swords. Discover how was the life outside the castle walls. Farmers For farmers, life centered around the rice fields. Though considered part of the respected working class, they carried the burden of feeding the country and paying heavy taxes in rice. Their days began […]
2025-08-22 / Last updated : 2025-08-22 Tom Taylor Indoor Activities

Rainy Day in Matsumoto: What to do?

Mother Nature doesn’t always play along with our travel plans. One moment you’re anticipating a picturesque day exploring Matsumoto Castle, the scenic streets or historic landmarks, and then, the skies open up, bringing your outdoor adventures to a halt. While rain might dampen the initial excitement, it doesn’t have to ruin your trip. Matsumoto has plenty to offer even when the weather doesn’t cooperate. From cultural experiences to cozy indoor activities, there’s always something to discover even during a rainy day in Matsumoto. Samurai Experience Step into the world of the samurai after visiting Matsumoto Castle with this immersive cultural experience in Matsumoto. Under the guidance of a friendly instructor, […]
2025-08-01 / Last updated : 2025-08-01 Kevin Kato Nature

Mount Koboyama: A Big Destination with the Low Elevation

Here in Matsumoto there’s no shortage of beautiful mountain scenery. If you have the time, we highly recommend a trip up into the Northern Alps. But if you can’t quite, bike or hike just a bit south of town and check out Mount Koboyama, the big destination with the low elevation! 1,500 Year Old Physique Pass by its feet and you probably won’t notice anything special about this hill with the mountainous reputation. But you may notice something intriguing from afar – an angular, flat-topped profile that could only be man-made. And indeed, the top of this mountain was shaped by human hands. Excavation and research have shown that the […]
2025-07-09 / Last updated : 2025-07-09 Sylvain Outdoor Activities

Dream Coaster, Playgrounds and Zoo at Matsumoto Alps Park

Just a 15-minute drive from central Matsumoto, Alps Park is one of the city’s largest and highest-altitude parks, a perfect escape into nature for families. It’s an ideal spot to let your kids run free and burn off some energy in wide-open green spaces. The highlights are, without a doubt, the Dream Coaster, multiple playgrounds, and even a small zoo. All designed entertain visitors of all ages! What is the “Dream Coaster” The Dream Coaster is essentially a summer bobsleigh. It is a one-person sled on rails that winds its way down the hillside from the top of the park. You control your own speed with a handle (or just […]
2025-06-26 / Last updated : 2025-07-04 Sylvain Sightseeing

Suwa Lakeside Culture and Quiet History Just Beyond Matsumoto

Just about a 20-minute train ride from Matsumoto, Suwa offers a refreshing change of pace. Centered around the wide and shimmering Lake Suwa, this small city blends nature, tradition, and craftsmanship in a way that feels both relaxed and deeply rooted. Learn more about Suwa Lakeside Culture and Quiet History Just Beyond Matsumoto. Suwa Lake View Lake Suwa is the heart of the city. Encircled by walking and cycling paths, it’s a popular place to unwind, whether you’re soaking your feet in a lakeside hot spring, watching waterbirds come and go, or simply enjoying the mountain views. In winter, the lake often freezes, occasionally cracking and rising to form a […]
2025-06-23 / Last updated : 2025-06-25 Tom Taylor Nature

Matsumoto’s Hidden Waterfalls: A Day Trip Adventure

Just a short trip from the city of Matsumoto in the Norikura Highlands, you can find some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Japan. If you’re seeking a tranquil escape, these ‘taki’ (waterfalls) are an absolute must-visit. Known collectively as the “Three Great Waterfalls of Norikura”, each has its own unique charm and scenic trails. Here’s a quick guide to three stunning matsumoto’s hidden waterfalls you won’t want to miss. 1. Sanbon-daki (Three-Peak Waterfall) Sanbon-daki, which translates to “Three Waterfalls,” is a unique geological formation as three separate rivers join to form what is collectively called Sanbon Falls. With a basin elevation of 1840m it is rumoured to have been […]
2025-06-10 / Last updated : 2025-06-10 Léa Van Cuyck Other

Tattoo-Friendly Onsen and Sento in Matsumoto and Surrounding Region

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 […]
2025-06-09 / Last updated : 2025-06-09 Sylvain Sightseeing

Why Go To Matsumoto?

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. […]
2025-05-12 / Last updated : 2025-05-12 Sylvain Art

Rice Paddy ‘Tambo’ Art transforms a rice field into a living canvas

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 […]
2025-03-14 / Last updated : 2025-03-14 Sylvain Notification

Matsumoto Castle Entry Fee Update: What You Need to Know

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 […]