How to go from Nagano to Matsumoto ?
Matsumoto
©Alexander Schimmeck, unsplash
Access to one of the best preserved castles in Japan
The Limited Express Shinano runs from Nagano to Matsumoto before continuing on to Nagoya. In Matsumoto you can explore one of the best preserved castles in Japan.
Limited Express Shinano between Nagano and Nagoya
The Limited Express (Wide View) Shinano runs from Nagano, on the Hokuriku Shinkansen, to Matsumoto before continuing on to Nagoya. The Wide View refers to the large windows in the carriages allowing you to really experience the mountains through which you pass.
There are also local trains running on the JR Shinonoi Line,which stop at 12 stations as opposed to the 3 or 4 of the Limited Express and so take up to half an hour longer.The first local train leaves Matsumoto at 06:18 getting into Nagano at 07:28 and the last local train leaves Nagano at 22:55 and gets into Matsumoto at 00:12.
63 KM - 0H49 - Matsumoto station
Discover Matsumoto
What to see ?
Matsumoto Castle
Nicknamed ‘crow castle’ due to its blackexterior, and one of the best preserved castles in Japan with a lot of authentic wooden features, rather than a reconstruction. Rather than being in a commanding position on a hill, this castle is built on a plain and as such is slightly different to most o fthe other castles in Japan. There is a very interesting display of weaponary inside, but be aware there are a lot of low beams and steep stairs.
Japan Ukiyoe Museum
A 10-minute taxi ride to the east of Matsumoto Station is one of the world’s largest private art collections. The wooden print blocks here are some of those used to make the most striking images of Japan, but unfortunately, compared to the size of the collection, only a small portion is on display at one time.
Where to Stay ?
Hotel Buena Vista Matsumoto ホテルブエナビスタ
Located in the heart of Matsumoto, this is known as one of the best hotels in the city. The hotel is a 7-minute walk from JR Matsumoto Station, or you can get a free shuttle bus ride.
1-2-1 Honjo, Matsumoto-shi, Nagano, 390-0814
Tel : 02-6337-0111/ www.buena-vista.co.jp/en/
Fukashiso Ryokan 民芸旅館深志荘
A cosy Japanese inndecorated with a sunken hearth, a traveler’s guardian deity, andtraditional Japanese art for guest to appreciate.
2-11-21, Namiyanagi, Matsumoto, Nagano, 390-0825
Tel : 02-6328-6500 / www.fukashiso.com
Where to eat ?
Shizuka しづか
Matsumoto’s most highly rated restaurant,serving traditional Japanese food like oden, for lunch and dinner.From exit 1 of Matsumoto Castle, walk south and take the firstleft. Shizuka will be on your right.
Open daily, 12 a.m. to 11 p.m. Closed Sundays and holidays.
Tel : 02-6332-0547 / www.shiduka.co.jp
Kobayashi Soba こばやし
Homemade soba topped withlocally grown wasabi. From exit 1 of Matsumoto Castle, walksouth and turn right at the end of the street. Turn left at the trafficlight, then left again at the next one. Kobayashi is on the right.
Open daily, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Tel : 02-6332-1298 / www.kobayashi-soba.co.jp
