Discover

Matsumoto Castle, home to Japan’s oldest existing five-tiered, six-story castle keep and designated as a National Treasure, is just a two-minute walk from Matsumoto Marunouchi Hotel. Its architectural style retains the atmosphere of the Sengoku period, and exhibits of firearms and structures celebrate the glory of that era. A tour of the castle tower offers plenty to see. Be sure to witness its striking black-and-white contrast set against the backdrop of the majestic Japanese Alps.

The Matsumoto City Museum of Art showcases works by world-renowned artist Yayoi Kusama, who was born in Matsumoto, as well as pieces by local artists and modern and contemporary art. Its permanent collection offers an up-close view of Kusama’s iconic and early works, while special exhibitions feature a wide range of artistic genres. Outside the museum, vibrant large-scale sculptures by Kusama captivate and welcome visitors.

The Former Kaichi School, built in 1876, is a prime example of early Meiji-era pseudo-Western architecture, renowned for its unique design that blends Japanese and Western styles. Designed and constructed by local master carpenter Kiyoshige Tateishi, it embodies the spirit and craftsmanship of the Civilization and Enlightenment period. Designated an Important Cultural Property in 1961, it became Japan’s first school building to be registered as a National Treasure in 2019.

Yohashira Shrine, located in the heart of Matsumoto, enshrines four deities: Amenominakanushi-no-Kami, Takamimusubi-no-Kami, Kamimusubi-no-Kami, and Amaterasu-Omikami. Although relatively new, having been founded in the Meiji period, it is beloved by locals and visitors alike as a “shrine where all wishes come true.” The grounds offer beautiful scenery in every season, with vibrant autumn foliage and cherry blossoms in spring making it an ideal spot for both worship and leisurely strolls.

Located within Matsumoto Castle Park, the Matsumoto City Museum introduces the history and culture of the city. Its permanent exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the formation of the castle town, daily life in Matsumoto, traditional crafts, and local folk materials. Highlights include displays tracing Matsumoto’s journey from the Sengoku period to the present day, as well as exhibits on regional festivals and customs. It is a popular spot for visitors to gain deeper insight into the city in between sightseeing.

Matsumoto Timepiece Museum – Home to one of Japan’s largest collections of antique clocks, this unique museum displays timepieces from around the world, ranging from elegantly crafted European designs to traditional Japanese clocks. Visitors can enjoy the rhythmic ticking and hourly chimes, offering a nostalgic journey through the history of timekeeping.

Matsumoto’s finest spring water, this historic well is a designated Special Historic Site of Matsumoto City. It produces approximately 230 liters of water per minute and has been used since the Edo period for drinking and sake brewing. As the largest well in Matsumoto, it remains popular among locals and visitors alike.

This is a shopping street where many “namako-kabe” plaster storehouses (earthen kura warehouses with traditional white plaster latticework) still remain, originally built to help protect the town from major fires in the Edo and Meiji periods.

Even some buildings constructed in more modern times incorporate namako-kabe elements—or are designed in the same style—to create a unified streetscape.

With shops selling Matsumoto folk-craft furniture, various handicrafts, and a wide range of eateries (Japanese, soba, Italian, and more), as well as greengrocers and other local stores, it’s a lively street that visitors of all ages can enjoy.

There are several wells around the area, and the old hand-pump wells in particular have a nostalgic charm.

At the center of the street, the “Nakamachi Kura-no-aru Parking Lot” offers discounts when you shop at participating stores along the street.