Matsumoto's Crown Jewels

Matsumoto features one of Japan's premier historic castles, a 16th-century structure known for its unique black exterior. The city’s cultural heritage includes the Meiji-era Kaichi School Museum and the world’s largest private collection of woodblock prints at the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum. Spiritual landmarks like the Yohashira and Fukashi Shrines offer insight into local Shinto traditions, while the nearby Asama Onsen provides historic hot spring baths. The list also includes the high-altitude Kamikochi valley, a gateway to the Hida Mountains.

Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto Castle, originally known as Fukashi Castle, is one of Japan's premier historic castles, along with Himeji and Kumamoto.

Kaichi School Museum

The Kaichi School in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture was one of the first schools in Japan.

Japan Ukiyo-e Museum

The Japan Ukiyo-e Museum is a privately owned Japanese art museum in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture.

Kamikochi

Kamikōchi is a remote mountainous highland valley within the Hida Mountains range, in the western region of Nagano Prefecture, Japan.

Yohashira Shrine

Dedicated to four Shinto deities, this central shrine hosts the annual Shin-to Festival in October. It is situated near the Metoba River and the historic Nawate-dori street.

Fukashi Shrine

Dedicated to Suwa Myojin and Tenjin, the god of learning, this shrine features distinctive vermilion architecture. Historically, it served as the protective shrine for the lords of Matsumoto Castle.

Asama Onsen

Asama Onsen is an onsen located in the city of Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.