An evening at Matsumoto castle

Matsumoto is one of the beautiful castles located in the Gifu area. From Tokyo Shinjuku highway bus terminal it takes about 3 and half hours to reach Matsumoto city. The bus ticket cost around 3800 yen for one way. The bus tickets can be purchased at Highway bus Japan website or from the bus station. Me and my colleagues decided to explore the Gifu prefecture including cities such as Matsumoto, Kamikochi, Takayama and Shirakawagoe.

As it was a public holiday we arrived in Matsumoto city a bit late. After arriving in the city we were looking for a lunch place near Nakamachi Dori. Nakamachi dori is a former merchant district with warehouses including many souvenir shops and fancy cafes. There were so many interesting building elements reflecting its historical aspects. We found many shops that sell local art and crafts, sweets, dried fruits and ciders. As Japanese people says so many “kawaii shops”.

We headed to our hostel Tabi Shiro closer to Matsumoto castle. The staff is friendly and welcome us with a big smile. After we checked in we got free drinks from the bar. The hostel interior is so rustic and so cozy.

We were planning to visit Matsumoto castle in the evening hoping to see the sunset.It was 10 minutes walk from the hostel. Matsumoto castle or Matsumotojo is one of the most beautiful original castles in Japan. The castle was built on plains rather than on a hill or mountain. You can walk around the castle free but there is an entrance fee to go inside around 700yen. Unfortunately it was too late for us to go as it was closed around 17:00pm. The castle is surrounded with moats which gives great photogenic views.

After walking around the castle we went to check Matsumoto Media garden as some events were happening to promote Japan domestic travels. The building was designed by famous architect Toyo Ito Associates. The building is a pretty simple structure with a steel frame facade. The Media garden is a great place to check local tourism information and local souvenirs.

We head back to the castle hoping to see the night view and to photograph the beautiful castle with surrounding lights. In my opinion one day is more than enough to explore Matsumoto city as the main attraction is Matsumoto castle. There are other activities such as Daio Wasabi Farm, City Art museum featuring works by Matsumoto-born Kusama Yayoi and Japan Ukiyoe museum. As we arrived very late the places we wanted to visit were limited with the time. Overall Matsumoto city is a lovely place to explore.