One Day in Matsumoto (Nagano) – A Calm Escape from the Big Cities

Matsumoto, located in Nagano Prefecture, is a charming city known for its beautifully preserved castle and delicious soba noodles. It’s also a great base to explore the Japanese Alps. Whether it’s your first time in Japan or you’ve been multiple times, if you’re looking to experience a less crowded and more relaxed city, Matsumoto is a fantastic choice.

It takes less than 3 hours by train from Tokyo, so a day trip is doable. That said, I personally think staying one night (I did!) would make the trip even better, especially if you want to take your time exploring.

One-day itinerary in Matsumoto:

10:00 AM – Stroll Through Nakamachi Dori

I started the day walking through Nakamachi Dori, a historical merchant street lined with traditional kura storehouses. It’s a nice way to begin the day slowly, soaking in the local vibe and peeking into boutique shops and small galleries.

10:30 AM – Breakfast or Brunch on Nakamachi Dori

There are several cute cafes along this street, so I recommend grabbing breakfast or brunch here. I had some fluffy French toast and a charcoal latte at one spot (Nakamachi Cafe) —super cozy and a nice break from convenience store meals.

11:30 AM – Visit Matsumoto Castle

This was the highlight of my day. Matsumoto Castle, a designated National Treasure, is over 400 years old. The view is impressive even from the outside, but if you’re okay with steep stairs, definitely go inside. You’ll get a real feel for feudal Japan. There was also a friendly ninja outside taking free photos with visitors!

1:00 PM – Walk Through Nawate Shopping Street

Just across the river from the castle is Nawate Street. It’s quirky and full of charm, with frog-themed statues and stalls selling antiques, sweets, and crafts. I grabbed a quick snack here—plenty of options if you’re hungry.

2:00 PM – Visit Yohashira-jinja Shrine

This peaceful shrine is nearby and a lovely stop for a quiet moment. It’s not too big, but it’s surrounded by trees and has a very calm, local atmosphere.

2:45 PM – Explore Matsumoto City Museum of Art

If you enjoy art, this museum is worth a visit. It features works by local artists and rotating exhibitions. The building itself is also quite beautiful.

4:15 PM – Coffee or Tea Break

At this point, I needed a break, so I stopped by a local café for a drink and something sweet. There are plenty of relaxing spots around, and it’s a great time to rest your feet.

5:00 PM – Dinner: Try Matsumoto’s Specialty Soba

Matsumoto is famous for its soba noodles, so I headed to a soba restaurant そばきり みよ田. I had the cold soba with dipping sauce and tempura set, and it was delicious! The texture was perfect, and the flavor was light yet satisfying.

6:30 PM – Evening Walk or Optional Spots

If you have more energy after dinner, take a slow walk through town again or head to a local onsen if you’re staying overnight.

8:30 PM – Wind Down & Head Back

By this time, I was feeling satisfied with the day and made my way back to the hotel. It was such a fulfilling trip.

Places I Missed (Next Time!)

• Matsumoto City Museum if you’re into more historical exhibits.
• Matsumoto City Alps Park – a bit further out, but great for views of the Japanese Alps from the observation deck.
• Alpico Plaza – A shopping center with local crafts and souvenirs
• Asama Onsen – A relaxing hot spring area

Final Thoughts

Matsumoto really left a lasting impression on me. It’s not flashy, but it’s full of heart and history. If you want a peaceful change of pace from Japan’s bigger cities, I highly recommend adding Matsumoto to your itinerary—even if it’s just for one day.

Check out our One-Day Kanazawa Itinerary if you’re looking for more ideas beyond the big cities!