Things to do in Matsumoto

Activities, attractions and tours

A traditional Japanese pagoda by a calm lake with autumn trees in the background.
A bustling restaurant with wooden interiors, Japanese menu signs, and patrons seated at tables.
A street with shops and people walking.
A cityscape with autumn foliage, a park with a pond, and distant mountains.
A traditional Japanese storefront with wooden signage, hanging lanterns, and a brick entrance.

Things to do

From Matsumoto/Nagano: Nakasendo Trail Walking Tour

From Matsumoto/Nagano: Nakasendo Trail Walking Tour

P11,154
per adult
From Matsumoto/Nagano: Nakasendo Trail Walking Tour
Nagano/Matsumoto: Matsumoto Castle and Narai-juku Day Trip

Nagano/Matsumoto: Matsumoto Castle and Narai-juku Day Trip

P10,623
per adult
Nagano/Matsumoto: Matsumoto Castle and Narai-juku Day Trip
Private Guided Kirigamine Tour in Nagano: Marsh Walk & Lunch

Private Guided Kirigamine Tour in Nagano: Marsh Walk & Lunch

P15,475
per adult
Private Guided Kirigamine Tour in Nagano: Marsh Walk & Lunch
Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience

Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience

P5,198
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience
Wasabi Farm Walking Tour & Lunch

Wasabi Farm Walking Tour & Lunch

P4,097
per adult
Wasabi Farm Walking Tour & Lunch
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Most popular experiences in Matsumoto

Tours & day trips

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KDDI and Softbank eSIM in Japan for 1-30 Days with 3GB-Unlimited

KDDI and Softbank eSIM in Japan for 1-30 Days with 3GB-Unlimited

Activity duration is 30 days
5.2 out of 10 with 5 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is P 307 per adult
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Private & custom tours

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Full Day Private Tour Kamikochi and Matsumoto Castle

Full Day Private Tour Kamikochi and Matsumoto Castle

Activity duration is 10 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is P 8,488 per adult
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Food, drink & nightlife

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Matsumoto: Castle Tour and Sake Tasting Experience

Matsumoto: Castle Tour and Sake Tasting Experience

Activity duration is 3 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is P 4,225 per adult
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What to do in Matsumoto

Stay near popular Matsumoto attractions

A traditional Japanese castle with multiple tiers, surrounded by autumn foliage and a stone bridge.

Matsumoto Castle

9.2/10 (508 reviews)
Known as "Crow Castle" for its striking black exterior, Matsumoto Castle stands as one of Japan's oldest original fortresses. Climb its steep wooden staircases to discover samurai armor and views of the Japanese Alps.
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Where to stay in Matsumoto

Find the best Matsumoto areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

Asama Onsen

While there might not be top attractions in Asama Onsen, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Asama Hot Spring and Utsukushigahara Onsen.

Wadamachi

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Wadamachi and surrounding area, you can visit Japan Ukiyo-e Museum and Matsumoto Timepiece Museum.

A river with a bridge, cherry blossoms, and mountains in the background.
Photo by Qurren
Open Photo by Qurren

Tsukama

Though Tsukama might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Matsumoto City Museum of Art and Matsumoto Performing Arts Center.

A traditional building with a tower, ornate entrance, and symmetrical windows.

Kaichi

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Kaichi and surrounding area, you can visit Matsumoto Castle and Matsumoto Timepiece Museum.

A sunflower field with mountains in the background.
Photo by くろふね
Open Photo by くろふね

Niimura

While there might not be top attractions in Niimura, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Japan Ukiyo-e Museum and Matsumoto Timepiece Museum.

A traditional Japanese street with wooden buildings, a torii gate, and a mountainous backdrop.

Takayama

A traditional Japanese street with wooden buildings, a tree, and a street lamp.

Ueda

A sunset over a lake with a cityscape in the background.

Okaya

Frequently asked questions

Is Matsumoto worth visiting?
Famous for its nature and dining, discovering cool things to do in Matsumoto is easy. Remember to add Asama Hot Spring to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Matsumoto?
Asama Hot Spring and Hinoki Hot Spring are two excellent places to start your getaway adventures. Remember to explore the dining and retail options in Matsumoto while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Matsumoto?
Asama Hot Spring is one of the top tourist attractions in Matsumoto and should be high on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Matsumoto?
Three days in Matsumoto is enough to enjoy the city's major attractions. Many guests stay for two days on average. Asama Hot Spring, Matsumoto City Museum of Art and Utsukushigahara Onsen are among the top-rated sights. Want to experience more? Hang around a while longer to visit nearby hotspots like Nagano.
Is Matsumoto a walkable city?
With popular neighborhoods and top attractions within walking distance of the city center, Matsumoto is a good destination to experience on foot. Wander between Asama Hot Spring and Matsumoto City Museum of Art. Then take a stroll through Kakeyu Onsen, located 3 kilometers from the center, and Asama Onsen, which is about 3 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Matsumoto with kids?
Planning what to do in Matsumoto with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're traveling with little ones or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly sights to keep everyone happy here.

What to do in Matsumoto for adults?
Izutsu Winery and Kametaya Sake Brewery are just a few of the things to do in Matsumoto. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Matsumoto?
In Matsumoto, Joyama Park is a top spot for anyone looking to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a great way to discover the best free things to do in Matsumoto.