Matsumoto

Matsumoto is one of the most pleasant and authentically “real Japan” cities you can discover as a family. It combines traditional buildings, narrow streets lined with clear water canals, a calm atmosphere, and breathtaking views of the Japanese Alps. At the centre of the city stands its local pride – Matsumoto Castle, one of the few original castles remaining in Japan from the 16th-17th centuries, also known as the “Crow Castle” thanks to its deep black colour.

The city is compact, walkable, full of street food and local neighbourhood life, and only a few hours away from Tokyo.

How to Get to Matsumoto – and How to Move Around the City?

How to get there from major cities like Tokyo?
Matsumoto is very accessible from Tokyo as well as from nearby towns such as Narai. The train journey on a limited express takes about 2.5–3 hours. The main station is located right in the heart of the city, surrounded by restaurants, shops, cafés, and a local food market.

Do you need a car?
In the city centre, almost everything is within walking distance. Matsumoto Castle is about a 15–20 minute walk from the station, making it easy to explore the main sights on foot.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert:
From personal experience, families often find having a car much more convenient. It allows easy access to nearby villages, hot springs, and wasabi farms, and helps avoid weekend crowding on public transport.

What about crowds?
Weekends and public holidays can be especially busy around the castle, with waiting times of 40–100 minutes to enter.

The Itinerary Expert recommends arriving very early or purchasing tickets online to reduce waiting time and make the visit more comfortable with children.

When is the Best Time to Visit Matsumoto?

Spring
In spring, the city feels calm and pleasant for walking. Temperatures are comfortable, and Nawate Street comes back to life after winter, with more open shops and stalls.

Summer
Summer brings vibrant streets, local festivals, food stalls, and music. It is also the most comfortable season for walking through the castle interiors without freezing floors or cold winds.

Autumn
Autumn is possibly the most beautiful season in Matsumoto. Strong autumn colours, clear mountain views, and perfect photo opportunities around the castle often make visitors stop at almost every corner to take pictures.

Winter
Winter is also a rewarding time to visit, but only with good preparation. Inside the castle, shoes must be removed, and the wooden floors can be extremely cold. Without warm socks or hotel slippers, the experience can be uncomfortable.

The Itinerary Expert always brings thick socks in the bag for winter visits – a small detail that makes a big difference, especially for children.

What to See in Matsumoto – Top Attractions for Families?

1) Matsumoto Castle – the highlight of the city
This 16th-century national treasure is the main attraction of any visit to Matsumoto. Its striking black exterior, impressive architecture, and atmospheric surroundings make it the visual and cultural centre of the city.

Main features:
The castle has a central keep with six floors, including one “hidden” floor that cannot be seen from outside. Inside, several staircases are extremely steep — some reaching up to 61 degrees — and require careful movement, especially for children and older visitors. Exhibits include traditional weapons, rifles, and concealed items that resemble swords but are actually guns. At the top, panoramic views of the Japanese Alps and the city create one of the most memorable moments of the visit. Morning and evening reflections in the moat, sometimes called the “inverted Crow Castle,” are particularly beautiful for photography.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert:
Place your shoes directly inside your backpack rather than carrying them in a plastic bag. With both hands free, climbing the steep staircases is safer and much easier.

2) Nawate Street (“Frog Street”)
Nawate Street is a small, picturesque, family-friendly street known for its charming and relaxed atmosphere. It is filled with frog statues — a playful reference to the Japanese word kaeru, which means both “frog” and “to return home.” The street offers excellent food stalls, especially taiyaki with cream, chocolate, or red bean paste. The pastries here are generous and very popular with children. In the morning, the street wakes up slowly, creating a calm and authentic local atmosphere.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert:
Buy a hot taiyaki and sit by the small water stream just behind the street. It’s a quiet corner that offers a short break from the crowds.

3) Yohashira Shrine
Yohashira Shrine is centrally located and can be reached via a lively street during festival periods, when the area fills with colour and local atmosphere. It is within a short walking distance of both Nawate Street and Matsumoto Castle, making it an easy and pleasant stop during city exploration.

4) Matsumoto City Museum of Art
The museum is well known for its Yayoi Kusama exhibitions, featuring pumpkins, bold colours, and immersive rooms. It is an excellent stop for families who enjoy creativity, modern art, and photography.

5) Fukashi Shrine
Fukashi Shrine offers a nostalgic, quiet atmosphere with animal statues and a distinctly local feel. It is well suited for a short, peaceful pause between the castle and the central streets.

6) Izakaya District – Tsunagu Yokocho
Tsunagu Yokocho is a spacious dining area near the station, featuring around 12 different izakayas. Each specialises in something unique: takoyaki, okonomiyaki, Korean dishes, soups, seafood, and more. Alongside local Matsumoto dishes, there are also more adventurous options, such as simmered pork heart. This area is an easy and flexible choice for families who want a relaxed dinner without searching for individual restaurants.

Nature Around Matsumoto – More Than Just a Castle?

Water Canals and the Metoba River

Travellers describe Matsumoto as a city filled with clear water streams, visible fish, and locals collecting water from traditional spots. These small canals and the Metoba River create a uniquely Japanese atmosphere that adds charm to any walk through the city.

The Park Around the Castle

The park surrounding the moat is wide, peaceful, and well-kept, with trees, lawns, benches, and swans. It is ideal for a relaxed break at any time of day. Visitors often mention that the area is beautiful both in daylight and at night, especially during winter illumination events.

The Surrounding Villages and Valleys

Travellers who combined Matsumoto with nearby Kamikōchi described striking alpine scenery and a pleasant balance between nature and city comforts.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert:
Stop by the moat in the late afternoon – the reflections and light often create postcard-like photos.

What to Do with Kids in Matsumoto?

Families find Matsumoto easy and enjoyable with children. Popular activities include relaxed walks around the park and moat, watching swans and fish, and exploring the small bridges and canals scattered throughout the city.

A visit to Nawate Street for fresh taiyaki is an easy and enjoyable family treat, while the Matsumoto City Museum of Art is a great option for children who enjoy colour, creativity, and playful installations. A half-day trip to a wasabi farm in the Azumino area is also a wonderful addition to the itinerary, offering flat walking paths, bicycle rentals, and simple local food in a calm natural setting.

Recommended Food – What Not to Miss?

Taiyaki:
Around 250 yen. A traditional fish-shaped pastry with fillings such as custard, chocolate, or red bean paste. It is filling, sweet, and well suited for both children and adults.

Oyaki:
Traditional baked dumplings filled with pumpkin, mushrooms, or red bean paste. They feel especially authentic when bought from small, home-style local shops.

Takoyaki:
Available at the food hall near the station, often served in different styles – from mildly spicy to versions topped with mayonnaise or scallions.

Japanese & Korean drinks:
Including lemon sour, sake, and drinks such as makgeolli.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert:
For family dinners, arrive early. Most izakayas fill up after 19:00, and eating earlier makes the experience far more comfortable with children.

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More Info

What should you keep in mind before visiting Matsumoto?

Castle queues can be long, often reaching 60-120 minutes during peak times. Inside the castle, movement is slow because everyone uses the same steep staircases, and travellers frequently mention being nervous when descending. Floors are very cold in winter, so warm socks are essential. Recent years have also brought increasing numbers of foreign visitors, especially during weekends and holidays.

Walking into this Yayoi Kusama world felt surreal — giant dotted flowers, bright colors and playful art everywhere. Matsumoto really knows how to celebrate creativity.

2-Day Family Itinerary in Matsumoto

Day 1 – City Centre & Matsumoto Castle

Morning (10:00-13:00)
10:00 – Begin walking from Matsumoto Station toward the city centre and the castle. The route takes about 15 minutes (around 1 km) through quiet, pleasant streets.
10:30 – Arrive at Nawate Street. Stop for coffee and hot taiyaki, explore the small shops, food stalls, and frog statues (1-1.5 hours).
11:45 – Walk 5-10 minutes to Yohashira Shrine and spend about 30 minutes enjoying the peaceful grounds.

Afternoon (13:00-15:30)
13:00 – Walk 10-15 minutes to Matsumoto Castle.
13:15-15:00 – Visit the castle (700 yen per adult). Climb the six floors, view the weapon collections, and enjoy the top-floor panorama. Most travellers spend about 60 minutes inside and 30-45 minutes exploring the moat and gardens.
Opening hours: 8:30-17:00, last entry at 16:30.

Evening (15:30-18:00)
15:30-16:30 – Take a relaxed walk around the moat and park, stopping for photos from different angles.
16:30 – Walk back toward the station (15-20 minutes through old streets).
17:00-18:00 – Enjoy a family dinner at the Tsunagu Yokocho food hall. Choose one or two izakayas and share takoyaki and grilled dishes.

Day 2 – Nature & Agriculture: Daio Wasabi Farm (Azumino)

Morning (10:00-13:30)
10:00 – Drive from Matsumoto to Daio Wasabi Farm in Azumino. The trip takes 30-40 minutes (16-20 km). Free parking is available.
10:45-13:30 – Explore the farm: walk along the clear water channels and wasabi fields, take photos, taste fresh wasabi, and try simple local dishes.

Afternoon (13:30-15:30)
13:30-14:30 – Lunch at one of the restaurants on the farm, offering wasabi-based meals, noodles, and rice bowls.
14:30-15:30 – Free time for a short walk or a rest by the water – ideal for children who need a break.

Evening (15:30-18:00)
15:30 – Drive back to Matsumoto (30-40 minutes).
16:15-18:00 – Enjoy a final stroll around the city centre. You can return to Nawate Street or stop for coffee or a light meal near the station before continuing your trip.

Traveller Reviews

1. Review by Emily Carter – visited May 2019
   Emily describes visiting Matsumoto Castle on a calm spring morning and being impressed by the strong black-and-white contrast of the building and its reflection in the moat. She found the climb inside steep, but the views of the Alps made it worthwhile. The surrounding park felt peaceful and suitable for families.
2. Review by Daniel Brooks – visited October 2023
   Daniel’s visit took place on a weekend, and the crowds were intense. The narrow, steep stairs slowed everyone down, but the panoramic mountain scenery from the top was unforgettable. His children enjoyed watching the swans in the moat and eating taiyaki on Nawate Street afterward.
3. Review by Sarah Mitchell – visited August 2018
   Sarah found Nawate Street to be a pleasant surprise – quiet in the morning and slowly waking up. She said the taiyaki was excellent and generously filled. At the castle museum, the secret weapons exhibit stood out. She noted that the floors inside the castle were very cold and recommended bringing socks.
4. Review by Jason Miller – visited April 2025
   Jason felt Matsumoto was the perfect stop between mountain trips: clean canals, quiet streets, and a beautiful castle reflected in its moat. He tried oyaki at a small home-style shop and described it as one of the most memorable foods of the trip. His children enjoyed exploring the castle grounds.
5. Review by Olivia Bennett – visited November 2019
   Olivia found the castle stunning in autumn, with fiery leaves and crisp air. The reflection in the water looked almost unreal. Inside, however, it was extremely crowded and challenging with children because of the steep stairs. She still felt the exterior alone made the visit worthwhile.
6. Review by Michael Turner – visited July 2018
   Michael spent an evening at Tsunagu Yokocho near the station and described it as lively and enjoyable. The variety of takoyaki was impressive, and the atmosphere felt relaxing after a day of exploring the castle and shrine. He considered it an excellent dinner option for families.
7. Review by Laura Adams – visited March 2024
   Laura appreciated Matsumoto’s peaceful atmosphere. She walked from the station to the castle, stopping for photos of canals, bridges, and small shrines. The castle at dusk felt magical, especially with the mountains behind it. She noted that even without entering, the castle grounds are beautiful.

Tips from the Itinerary Expert

Bring warm socks for Matsumoto Castle
From personal visits, the floors inside the castle are extremely cold outside of summer. Shoes must be removed, and for children this can be uncomfortable. Thick socks or hotel slippers make the experience much easier.

Visit the castle the moment it opens
Queues can reach 40-100 minutes, especially on weekends. Arriving at 8:30 allows you to avoid the crowds and climb the steep staircases at a comfortable pace – much better when visiting with children.

Use your backpack for your shoes
Inside Matsumoto Castle, visitors carry their shoes in a plastic bag. The Itinerary Expert recommends putting them directly into your backpack so that both hands remain free. This makes climbing the narrow, steep steps safer.

Plan longer walking time – the city is too pretty to rush
The walk from Matsumoto Station to the castle often takes longer than expected. Canals, small bridges, shrines, and mountain views appear at every turn, and children who enjoy photography will want to stop frequently.

Try Oyaki from small home-style shops
One memorable discovery was a tiny, home-style shop selling oyaki. Visitors slide open the door and briefly wonder whether they are entering someone’s private home – but the dumplings are excellent, especially the sweet fillings for kids.

Choose Tsunagu Yokocho for stress-free family dinners
Instead of searching for a restaurant, head to the 12-stall food hall near the station. Each family member can choose a preferred dish – takoyaki, Korean food, grilled items – and the atmosphere is casual and easygoing.

Bring a small snack for the castle queue
On busy days, the wait to enter the castle can exceed an hour. The Itinerary Expert recommends bringing taiyaki from Nawate Street – it keeps children happy, and it’s a local treat worth trying.

Walk the moat area at sunset for the best photos
Late afternoon creates the most photogenic reflections of the “inverted Crow Castle.” This is one of the best moments for family photos.

This warrior doll looked almost alive — the golden armor, the delicate face, the bow and sword. I couldn’t stop admiring how much detail Japanese craftsmanship can hold.

Insights from the Itinerary Expert

The last visit to Matsumoto took place in October 2023, and it quickly became a recommended destination for families who want nature, atmosphere, and relaxed exploring without rushing from place to place. Even the simple walk from Matsumoto Station to Matsumoto Castle often takes twice as long as planned – not because of distance, but because every corner invites a photo: canals, bridges, small shrines, and glimpses of mountains between rooftops.

The castle itself is spectacular, especially the reflection on the moat in late afternoon. Inside, however, the floors are cold and the staircases extremely steep. Bringing warm socks and placing shoes in a backpack makes the visit more comfortable and safer, especially with children.

For food, Nawate Street (Nawate Dori) is a pleasant stop for families. Taiyaki filled with cream or sweet bean paste is a simple but effective treat when children are tired. Trying oyaki from small home-style shops is also strongly recommended – it is an authentic, comforting snack rarely found in large cities.

What stands out most about Matsumoto is how enjoyable it remains even when you are not “doing” anything. Quiet parks, clean water canals, and mountain air create a calm rhythm that families appreciate on longer trips. With places like Tsunagu Yokocho, dinner becomes easy and pleasant for everyone.

Matsumoto offers a balanced mix of scenery, atmosphere, and family-friendly exploring. Travellers are invited to create a personalised itinerary for this charming city – and for the rest of Japan – together with the Itinerary Expert.

These lanterns instantly put me in the festival mood. Their colors and bold calligraphy bring that classic Japanese energy that I always find so uplifting.

Price List – Matsumoto, Japan

I loved seeing these festival floats up close — the carvings, the gold details, the rows of lanterns. It felt like stepping behind the scenes of a centuries-old tradition.

Traveller Questions

1. Is Matsumoto easy to explore with children?
   Yes. Matsumoto is compact and walkable, and most highlights – the castle, Nawate Street, and the moat park – are within short walking distance.
2. How long is the wait to enter Matsumoto Castle?
   On weekends and holidays, waiting times may reach 40-100 minutes. Early morning entry is strongly recommended.
3. Are the castle stairs safe for kids? (first-person)
   From my own visit, the stairs are very steep and narrow. I had to help the children, especially when going down. It is safe if you move slowly and keep both hands free.
4. When is the best time to visit Matsumoto for scenery?
   Autumn offers the most dramatic colours and clear mountain views. Spring and summer are also great for relaxed walks and street food.
5. What local foods are worth trying?
   Families will enjoy taiyaki, oyaki, and takoyaki. Oyaki shops in residential streets and the food hall Tsunagu Yokocho offer kid-friendly options.
6. Is a car necessary?
   Not for the city itself – most central attractions are walkable. A car becomes useful only when visiting Wasabi Farm (Azumino) or nearby villages.
7. Are there free outdoor activities for families?
   Yes. Walking around the moat, photographing the castle from different angles, and exploring the canals and small bridges are free and very child-friendly.
8. What should we know about visiting the castle in winter? (first-person)
   I visited in winter and the floors inside the castle were extremely cold because shoes must be removed. Warm socks made a big difference for me and the children.

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