Matsumoto

Matsumoto is a vibrant city in the Nagano Prefecture, known for its stunning Matsumoto Castle and picturesque mountain scenery. Matsumoto serves as a convenient base for exploring the Northern Alps, offering access to Kamikochi and Norikura.

📍 Plan Your Trip

• Train station: Matsumoto Station 

• Accommodation: Hotel M Matsumoto

🏯 Matsumoto Castle

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Entrance to the museum: 700 yen

Google map: Matsumoto Castle

🐸 Nawate Shopping Street

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Google map: Nawate Shopping Street

🛍️ Nakamachi Shopping Street

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Google map: Nakamachi Shopping Street

👘 Narai-juku Shopping Street

Date: 16 November 2025

Narai-juku is a beautifully preserved post town on Japan’s old Nakasendō route in the Kiso Valley, known for its long stretch of traditional wooden houses and Edo-period atmosphere. It’s a perfect stop if you enjoy slow travel, history, and places that haven’t been overly commercialised.

Google map: Narai-juku (Train from Matsumoto Station, 5 stops JPY 590)