Visit Matsumoto: A Not-So-Hidden Gem

Usually I prefer exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, but it is also exciting to travel to well-known locations. Matsumoto, with its blend of history, art, and delicious food, is a prime example. Having visited Matsumoto on multiple occasions, I have created a list of locations and activities to add to your itinerary regardless of the season. Here are my recommendations:

Matsumoto Castle

Out of the castles I've visited, Matsumoto Castle quickly became a personal favorite. This iconic castle, nicknamed the "Black Crow (烏城 karasu-jo)," attracts visitors with its distinctive black facade which sets it apart from other castles throughout the country. What further distinguishes Matsumoto Castle is its unique location on flatlands, not the usual hilltop or mountain setting. In my opinion, these things make it one of the most photogenic castles in Japan.

When visiting Matsumoto Castle, be sure to allow yourself ample time to explore the grounds and the interiors. A word of advice: on weekends and, at times, weekdays, the queues for castle entry can require a wait. Planning your visit during the quieter morning hours might avoid this, as afternoons tend to be busier.

Nawate and Nakamachi Streets

While this is a very touristy area in Matsumoto, you can still find some amazing gems. The streets, lined with various shops and restaurants, present a mixed bag of experiences. While some establishments may lack authenticity or uniqueness, others offer passersby unique goods or delicious foods.

Many people rave about Ipponyaki Taiyaki Furosato. Even though their red bean paste was delicious, the taiyaki's exterior seemed to be somewhat doughy and undercooked. Notably, they do offer a sausage taiyaki, which might be similar to a corndog. Despite a couple of visits, I found the overall experience at this shop to be somewhat underwhelming—this, of course, reflecting my personal preferences.

Visit some of souvenir shops lining Nawate and Nakamachi Streets where you can snag many cute knickknacks and handmade goods. This area offers a unique shopping experience that sets them apart from more typical chain stores. While perusing the pottery shops, you will see a mix of unique finds alongside more common items. For those thinking of pottery as a souvenir, do some research about pottery before your travels to make sure you get the perfect piece.

One shop that you cannot miss is Mt. Desert Ice Cream shop on Nawate Street. I had this spot bookmarked for a while and was remind of it again by Kelsey on her hafufamily5 Instagram page. So, I was incredibly happy that the experience exceeded my expectations. The flavors were bold and delicious. Our choices included pumpkin spice, vanilla, salted caramel, apple strudel, and kinako banana—each delivering delicious flavor and an incredibly smooth texture.

In addition to shopping and eating, take a stroll along the riverbanks or pay a visit to Yohashira Shrine—an interesting and lively shrine. The fall foliage in this area is exceptionally beautiful and vibrant.

At Yohashira Shrine, you have the unique opportunity to feed pigeons if you purchase food. Keep in mind that the large number of pigeons adds a distinctive charm (albeit a problem too) to the shrine's surroundings.

Meanwhile, Nakamachi Street is home to Alps Coffee Lab. Though modest in size and seating capacity, this coffee shop is a must-visit. The owner's commitment to quality is demonstrated through the careful selection of premium coffee beans and ingredients. During my visit, we managed to snag a table and ordered in an iced latte and a miso caramel latte. If the miso caramel option is on the menu, don't hesitate to give it a try. Its deep, rich aftertaste strikes a perfect balance with the sweetness of the caramel. It has a unique and satisfying flavor profile without overwhelming sweetness.

While this area is one of the most touristed areas in Matsumoto, it should definitely be on your list!

Matsumoto City Museum of Art

Despite multiple visits to Matsumoto, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art somehow did not make my previous itineraries. This is especially shocking considering my admiration for Yayoi Kusama, one of Japan's most famous modern artists. As Matsumoto is Kusama's hometown, the museum often has incredible displays of her works.

The current exhibition, "Yayoi Kusama: A Place for my Soul," offers an exploration of the inspiration behind Kusama's creations, providing visitors with a rare opportunity to step into the artist's world. The exhibit delves into the depths of her soul and the intricate process of bringing her art to life. For me, the highlight of the exhibit is undoubtedly the light room, where stepping inside feels like immersing oneself in the landscapes of her paintings.

Even the museum's exterior pays homage to Kusama's artistic legacy by creating a seamless connection between the space and the artist's profound influence. For fellow art lovers and admirers of Yayoi Kusama, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art should not be overlooked.

Matsumoto Timepiece Museum

For those who know me, my interest in watches is no secret. For over a decade, I have read and learned about the nuances of the watches I like. I added the Timepiece Museum to my itinerary due to my passions for watches and history. While aware that the collection may not hold a large collection of watches, I knew that I would also enjoy the other pieces.

Although the museum is quite small, it proved to be a interesting and worth adding to my list. The clocks on display were nothing short of fascinating and some were entirely new to me. Out of all of them, the skull pocket watch instantly became a personal favorite.

Despite its size, the Timepiece Museum is a great addition to any itinerary, especially for fellow watch enthusiasts. Located conveniently close to other downtown attractions, it is easy to fit into your itinerary.

Daio Wasabi Farm

While not located in downtown Matsumoto, the Daio Wasabi Farm in Azumino is well worth the visit. Visiting by car is the most convenient. However, it can be accessed by a taxi from Hotaka station. Buses, including the Azumino tour bus, provide access during certain times of the year, making this scenic destination accessible to more people. For an optimal experience, arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds that gradually gather throughout the day.

Renowned as one of the largest wasabi farms in Japan, this farm offers a firsthand look at the cultivation of wasabi. Visitors have the chance to try delicious wasabi snacks and buy a variety of goods.

The expansive farm does not only allow visitors to see wasabi, but it also has beautiful walking trails that allow you to enjoy the river, mountains, and nature. Take your time to explore these trails and uncover all the photo-worthy spots, shrines, and other points of interest along the way.

Whether you are a nature enthusiast or a foodie seeking fresh wasabi, the Daio Wasabi Farm in Azumino promises a memorable experience.

Shrines and Temples

Exploring the multiple shrines and temples scattered around Matsumoto allows you to experience the city's rich cultural heritage. Having visited several, I can attest to the varying levels of interest each location may hold. If time is limited during your stay in Matsumoto, focusing on one or two key shrines or temples is best.

If you plan to travel to other cities, it's perfectly acceptable to skip the shrines and temples in this location or be very selective. Prioritize your choices based on personal interest or specific features that align with your preferences. Some shrines and temples may share common architectural styles or historical significance, making it reasonable to skip certain ones unless there is a particular attraction for you.

Ultimately, the decision to visit a shrine or temple should be based on your own interests and the unique offerings each site provides. Whether you choose to visit most of the locations or opt for a more selective approach, you will certainly enjoy your experience.

Casual Kappo Season Izakaya

Casual Kappo Season (かじゅある割烹しーずん) has both an izakaya and a beer hall. We opted to visit the izakaya and not the beer hall. The restaurant exuded a welcoming ambiance because of its nicely designed and cozy interior. In the center of the restaurant, visitors can see the oden simmering in broth which is unique because it is normal in the kitchen or behind the counter.

Every dish we tried demonstrated the restaurant's commitment to freshness and flavor. The pork and sweet potato stir fry stood out as a particularly interesting and delicious dish. While the menu may offer typical izakaya-style fare, Casual Kappo Season's unique twist on these dishes, along with the charming interior, elevated the overall dining experience.

Adding further to the experience was the warm and knowledgeable staff who created an atmosphere that felt both inviting and engaging. The delicious food, a cozy setting, and attentive service made our visit to Casual Kappo Season outstanding. For those seeking a taste of Japanese izakaya culture with a twist, this restaurant would be a great choice.

Soba (Buckwheat Noodles)

Considering Matsumoto's reputation for excellent soba, you must try this dish. Like many mountain towns or those near mountainous areas, soba is a specialty in Matsumoto. Exploring the local soba offerings allows visitors to experience the region's flavors. When trying soba, choose a local shop rather than a chain and make sure that you go early because these shops often have a long line before lunch. Try some of the other regional delicacies offered at the shops too!

Craft Beer and Japanese Sake

While Matsumoto may not be filled with craft beer shops, the city offers an abundance of sake shops, izakayas, and bars. During our visits to Matsumoto, we have visited a few izakayas and have not been disappointed by any of our choices. As for craft beer, we have visited Hop Frog Café, Bacca Brewing, and Matsumoto Brewing, each offering a unique flavor and atmosphere.

Hop Frog Café has a selection of Japanese craft beers from various breweries. The friendly owners create a welcoming environment for beer lovers. Bacca Brewing has a couple interesting brews and the pub is quaintly designed. The combination of interesting flavors in a pub setting makes it a good stop for craft beer lovers. Meanwhile, Matsumoto Brewing not only offers a selection of good beers but also provides a convenient resting spot when exploring the areas near Nawate and Nakamachi Streets. While all three are worth visiting, I recommend focusing only on having beers rather than food at these locations.

For Japanese sake, there are many sake shops and breweries worth visiting. However, my favorite shop was Yoikana. This shop has a long history and the people who run it are absolutely lovely. I initially heard about Yoikana through Ryokan Wandering's Instagram page. After reading the description, I added it to my must-visit list.

Upon entering, the women running the shop quickly saw my fondness for sake and guided me to a table for a tasting experience. Their thoughtful recommendations extended beyond sake, including small foods and chocolates to complement the drinks. What stood out most was the personal touch—receiving a homemade umeboshi and a refill of my preferred sake—and interesting conversation. Despite my inclination towards dry sake (karakuchi), even the sweeter varieties at Yoikana proved to be delicious.

While language barriers may be present, the shop provides information sheets in English. For a more immersive experience, having some knowledge of Japanese or visiting with someone who speaks the language is recommended. My experience at Yoikana left me not only with a few carefully chosen bottles to take home but also with a deep appreciation for the genuine hospitality and passion for sake that this historic shop has. If you find yourself in Matsumoto, Yoikana is undoubtedly a must-visit for any sake enthusiast.

Matsumoto offers a blend of historical landmarks, cultural richness, and diverse food experiences. The city is relatively easy to navigate even for those who may not speak Japanese. However, your experience might be enhanced if you can speak a little Japanese. While the city might be a tourist destination, it is worth adding to your itinerary.

If anyone has questions about Matsumoto or needs further recommendations, feel free to ask! Additionally, if you have particular interests or plans in mind for Matsumoto, don't hesitate to share them, and I can provide tailored suggestions to enhance your experience in the city.