What this area is like
Matsumoto Castle is a National Treasure with one of Japan’s oldest surviving keeps, its black walls set against the Northern Alps. Nakamachi Street has white storehouses and craft shops.
Plan your visit
Limited expresses from Shinjuku take about 2.5 hours. The castle keep has steep stairs.
Choose your next step
Places to see in this area
Matsumoto Castle
One of five castles designated National Treasures, with a black keep framed by the Northern Alps.
- Access
- About 20 minutes on foot from JR Matsumoto Station.
- Hours
- 8:30–17:00 (last entry 16:30); longer in Golden Week and summer. Closed 29–31 December.
- Fee
- Adults ¥1,300; elementary and junior high ¥400.
- Address
- 4-1 Marunouchi, Matsumoto, Nagano
You take off your shoes inside, and the stairs are very steep. Queues form on weekends; go at opening.
How to plan your time here
- After the castle, walk Nakamachi and Nawate streets, lined with old storehouses, cafés and craft shops.
- Matsumoto is about 2.5 hours from Shinjuku by limited express Azusa and is the gateway to Kamikochi.
Information checked 26 October 2026. Plans are JapaLens editorial suggestions, not on-site reviews. Hours and fees can change; check the official page before you go.