Things to do in Matsumoto, the Heart of the Japanese Alps

At the heart of the Japanese Alps in Nagano Prefecture, Matsumoto makes for the perfect base to explore this beautiful wilderness. While there's plenty of things to do around the nearby mountains, there's also more than enough activities inside the city too. Here are some of the best places to visit in Matsumoto.

Nawate-dori

Also known as Frog Street, due to a Japanese play on words, Nawate-dori is lined with traditional buildings housing artisan shops and cafes. It's a great spot to pick up some local souvenirs or snacks to try out. After checking out Nawate-dori, walk slightly further down the Metoba River to get to Nakamachi Street and explore the quaint shops there. Most of the shops here are closed on Mondays although they're open everyday throughout August.

Former Kaichi School

Going to school isn't usually top of most people's itineraries while traveling, but this former school in Matsumoto features some stunning architecture and an education insight into Japan's recent history. Kaichi School was one of the first schools in Japan, built in 1876 just a few years after the National Education System was created and the building is designated as a National Treasure of Japan.

Matsuka

A culinary institute of the city, Matsuka has been serving grilled eel (unagi) to customers since the first year of the Meiji Period back in 1868. You'll find a huge range of unagi restaurants in the area around Matsumoto, many of which get the eels locally from Lake Suwa, which has an abundance of these freshwater eats. Try to get there as soon after they open at 11:30, the restaurant is usually quite busy, especially on weekends. Also note Matsuka is closed on Mondays and Thursdays.

Matsumoto Castle

One of the most beautiful castles in Japan, Matsumoto Castle is nicknamed the 'Crow Castle' for its unique black exterior. It's also one of the few and most complete 'original castles' in Japan, that hasn't been destroyed and rebuilt like most others. The inside of the castle is a wonderful insight into what castles were once like and from the top floor you'll get stunning views over the city and the mountains that surround it.

Matsumoto City Art Museum

As the birthplace of one of Japan's most famous artists, Yayoi Kusuma, Matsumoto has inspired countless of pieces of artwork, many of which are displayed at the Matsumoto City Art Museum. While Yayoi Kusuma's art installations might be the main draw for many visitors, you'll find a number of art pieces from local artists that are well worth checking out. There's also the Matsumoto Performing Arts Center which sits opposite the museum.

Conclusion

Nagano's alpine city is a great stop for anyone exploring this beautiful region, full of history, beautiful scenery and delicious local in the midst of the Japanese Alps. Getting out of the city itself is easy and there's a range of great hiking spots in the mountains nearby, along with onsen, Japanese hot springs, that make for the perfect place to take a soak after a long day of traveling or touring the city.