If you are walking towards Zenkoji Temple from Nagano Station or the other way around, stop by Karukayasan Saikōji Temple (刈萱山西光寺). While the precinct is compact, it is where you can experience Etoki, a cultural activity you can hardly come across anywhere else. This temple should also interest those who previously visited the Karukaya-dō Mitsugon-in […]
Karukayasan Saikōji: A Hidden Gem Close to Nagano Station Read More »
Japan’s Chūbu region, where the Japanese Alps are located, is filled with amazing natural scenery. While many hidden gems cannot be reached by trains, they are still worth exploring! Even if you enjoy shopping and eating more, you won’t be disappointed by the region’s many charms. After all, the local cuisine in the mountainous area
How to Enjoy 14 Days in the Chūbu Region in Japan in Autumn Read More »
Surrounded by mountains, Matsumoto City has a wealth of hot spring sources. Among them, Shirahone Onsen (白骨温泉) tops the list with its picturesque natural scenery and cultural elements. Putting its somewhat scary name aside, you will surely be enchanted by the onsen town’s charm!
Shirahone Onsen: One of the Best Onsen Resorts in Matsumoto Read More »
Although Awa no Yu (泡の湯旅館) is located away from Shirahone Onsen‘s town center, it is the ryokan that represents hot spring town. In fact, the biggest onsen pool in Nagano Prefecture is found at Awa no Yu! The ryokan, which was opened in 1912, is known for its mixed-gender hot spring pool. But don’t worry.
Awa no Yu Ryokan: The Must-Stay Ryokan in Shirahone Onsen Read More »
Matsumoto City (松本市) is probably the most popular travel destination in Nagano Prefecture. Prospered as a castle town of Matsumoto Castle, in addition to traditional and retro architecture, the shopping district is also filled with trendy cafes and boutique stores. Furthermore, Matsumoto is also known as a treasure trove for breathtaking natural scenery, making the
The Best Guide Matsumoto: What to Do and Where to Go Read More »
Apart from the Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art (松本市美術館) is another primary landmark of the city. The museum dedicated to artists related to Nagano Prefecture is the best place in the world to experience the world of Yayoi Kusama, one of the world’s favorite contemporary artists, born in Matsumoto. Before you even
Matsumoto City Museum of Art: The Must-Go Spot in Matsumoto Read More »
Not too far from Matsumoto Castle, there is a street lined with traditional houses with a rather unique appearance. Nakamachi Shopping Street is the main street of the old Matsumoto. The houses on this street all look more or less like traditional warehouses. The reason? Fire hazard prevention.
The Must Go Shops and Restaurants in Nakamachi Street Read More »
If you are walking towards Matsumoto Castle from Matsumoto Station, you might walk past one of Matsumoto’s most revered shrines, Yohashira Shrine (四柱神社). But before you reach the shrine, you will see some frog monuments on Nawate Street (繩手通り)!
Yohashira Shrine and the Must-Go Spots on Nawate Street Read More »
Temples and shrines can be found everywhere in Japan. Among a large number of religious attractions in the country, a couple of them offer a more unique experience in each city. For Matsumoto, we reckon the below five temples and shrines below are worth your attention and time!
The Best Five Temples and Shrines in Matsumoto Read More »
Matsumoto’s most valuable and perhaps most popular historical attraction is the national treasure, Matsumoto Castle. But if that is the only historical attraction on your itinerary, you might be missing out! Within 5 km of the castle, there are a couple more museums with different themes that you might want to check out when you
A Guide to the Fascinating Museums in Matsumoto City Read More »
