Matsumoto Castle | Japan's Historic Icon | Hakuba Day Trip

Matsumoto

Information

Matsumoto is a beautiful city rich with history and culture only 60km away from Hakuba. The city is easily accessible by train via Hakuba Station and takes less than 90 minutes to drive. Those driving can also stop at the Daio Wasabi Farm en route to Matsumoto.

Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto Castle is the oldest standing castle in Japan and has been designated a National Treasure by the Japanese government. Its black exterior color is unique for Japanese castles and led to its nickname “Crows Castle”.

Visitors can walk the castle grounds free of charge and tour the castle for ¥700. Matsumoto Castle is located walking distance from Matsumoto Station.

Admission: ¥700

Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto City Art Museum

Yayoi Kusama, renowned for her polka dot installations, has showcased her work in prestigious art museums worldwide such as London’s Tate Modern, Los Angeles’ The Broad, and New York’s Whitney Museum of Art.

As she is a native of Matsumoto and the Matsumoto City Art Museum houses a permanent collection of her art. Advanced reservations are not required and you can learn more via the button below.

Admission: ¥410

Matsumoto City Art Museum

Shopping

Matsumoto retains its historical allure, boasting shopping districts adorned with cobblestone roads and architecture reminiscent of the Edo Period. Tourists can delight in browsing through Frog Street’s array of souvenirs and immersing themselves in the nostalgic ambiance of the Nakamichi District.

Additionally, nestled in the heart of the city, lies Aeon, a contemporary shopping mall catering to modern tastes.

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