Japan

Matsumoto

Matsumoto is best known for its magnificent castle but there is plenty more to explore in this charming, cosmopolitan city. Nestled in a fertile valley and surrounded by the peaks of the Japanese Alps these spectacular views alone are worth the visit, the pretty streets lined with traditional houses, excellent museums, galleries and cafes are just an added bonus.

What to see

Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto Castle

Heralded as a National Treasure Matsumoto is certainly one of Japan’s most impressive castles. Also known as ‘Crow Castle’ due to its black exterior, it sits in a lovely park in the centre of the city. Protected by interconnecting moats, walls and gatehouses the castle’s wooden keep, or donjon, is Japan’s oldest, built in the 16th century. The wooden interiors are all originals – keep an eye out for the hidden floor, a regular feature in Japanese fortifications, and if you climb all the way up to the roof you’ll find some excellent views. Just outside of the moat you’ll find the interesting Japanese Folklore Museum which contains some models of the city in times gone by.

Museums

Museums

Matsumoto has a great variety of museums with something likely to pique anyone’s interest. The Matsumoto City Museum of Art features plenty of works by local artists including Kusama Yayoi whilst the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum has a collection of 100,000 wood block prints, paintings, screens and old books, just a fraction of which is on display in this renowned establishment. Slightly farther out of the city you’ll find the Folkcraft Museum housed in a building built in the traditional style whose exhibits include lacquerware and wooden chests; and the Utsukushi-ga-hara Open Air Museum which, in its beautiful plateau location, displays 350 pieces of sculpture throughout its grounds.

Where to stay

Buena Vista

Located in the very centre of Matsumoto, the Buena Vista, as the name suggests, has wonderful views over the Shinsu Mountains from it's top floor restaurant and bright, spacious rooms that offer every comfort. The hotel's restaurants are modern and stylish whilst you are perfectly located to explore the city.

Read more

Make an Enquiry

Submit a travel enquiry and we will contact you on by your preference,
Make an Enquiry

Contact us

Call one of our tailormade specialists on

0808 239 3744

or email us at

info@asiainspirations.co.uk

Contact

Get a quote

Click here to fill in our quote request form and one of our specialists will call you back.

Quote Request

Download a brochure

Download the complete ASIA Inspirations brochure in PDF format.

Brochure download
Why Asia?

Why Asia?

The world’s largest and most populous continent, Asia is a vibrant and rambunctious fusion of ethnicities, cultures and customs; an incomparably rich and turbulent history showcased by mindboggling feats of architecture and engineering; a geography that encompasses towering peaks, unfathomable gorges and paradisiacal beaches; and a biodiversity that is so abundant that you’ll be reaching for your wildlife guide. Slot pulsa tanpa potongan slot gacor slot demo

Why tailormade?

Why tailormade?

    • Create a bespoke itinerary that fulfils your travel dreams
    • Travel where you want, when you want, for as long as you want
    • Pick the grade and style of accommodation you are most comfortable with
    • Add all or any of the elements you want – meals, excursions, guides
    • You’re completely in control – it’s all up to you

Slot pulsa tanpa potonganslot gacorslot demo

Why tailormade by Asia Inspirations?

Why tailormade by Asia Inspirations?

  • The China and Asia experts
  • Dedicated team of tailormade specialists
  • Excellent, personal service before and during your trip
  • Flexible itineraries that fit your wants and needs
  • Excellent value
  • A network of fantastic guides to help you delve deeper into each destination

Slot pulsa tanpa potongan slot gacor slot demo

Subscribe now

Subscribe to the ASIA Inspirations Travel newsletter.