Matsumoto, The Spirit of a Castle Town

Matsumoto City was established as a castle town in Nagano Prefecture Japan, with a beautiful view of the Hida Mountains- also known as the Japan Alps. Dating back 1592 during the Sengoku Jidai (Warring States Period), Matsumoto Castle had a  complicated history and stood the rule of 25 different daimyo (feudal lords).

During the Meiji restoration, the castle was slated for demolition. Fortunately, it was saved by Matsumoto residents, led by Ichikawa Ryōzō. Having fallen into disrepair by the late Meiji period, the castle was once again saved by the efforts of a local resident, high school principal Kobayashi Unari.

Often called “Crow Castle” because of its unique black exterior, Matsumoto Castle is one of the oldest castles in Japan. It is one of twelve original castles remaining, and only four designated as a national treasure. The castle is the symbol of the city, and it still stands thanks to the strong spirit and dedication of its residents throughout history. Even today, the grounds and castle itself are maintained with the help of local schoolchildren and residential volunteers. Matsumoto Castle maintains an informative website that offers virtual tours of the interior and grounds.

I have spent a lot of time in other castle town, yet the local pride in the castle is noticeable here. From the station staff to taxi drivers and locals walking around the grounds, I have never had so many people approach me to talk about local history and culture.

Matsumoto Castle is beautiful year round, and is easily recognized by a distinctive red bridge.

The Hida Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop.

Matsumoto hosts special events and festivals for every season, and much of the activity is focused around the castle.  For Kodomo No Hi (Children’s Day), the city gets dressed for the occasion with Koinobori (carp streamers).

The castle town also has preserved historic streets with a great selection of restaurants and shops.

On a visit last year, I was lucky enough to grab the limited edition bento “Jokamachi no Ogottso,” (Castle Town Feast). The bento was a collaboration between local government, business, and students to promote the best agriculture and specialty cooking of the region. Even if you can’t try the bento, I recommend the featured dishes that are specialties of Matsumoto, including: soba, wasabi, mountain vegetables, and apples.

In general, Japanese ekiben (local station lunch boxes) are a great way to try regional food. The Matsumoto bento is special because it reflects the spirit of the local community.

Walking around town, it is clear that the region is known for wasabi. If you are in Matsumoto, the Daio Wasabi Farm offers tours and is only 30 minutes away.

Access:

Matsumoto Station is only 2.5 hours from Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station by Super Azusa, slightly longer on the regular Azusa train.  Using the Shinano train you can reach Matsumoto from Nagano in 50 minutes, or Nagoya in 2 hours. This scenic route from Nagano to Nagoya through Matsumoto is a popular leg on a multi-city itinerary. All options are covered using the Japan Rail Pass.

Matsumoto Castle is a 15 minute walk or a 5 minute bus ride from the station.

This post contains affiliate links. This means we may receive referral commission for some products purchased. For more information, please read our Affiliate Policy.

It is possible to visit to Matsumoto as a day trip from Tokyo or Nagoya. It is such a beautiful city, it is definitely worth spending the night, or staying in nearby Nagano.  Search for hotels in Matsumoto or Nagano.