Matsumoto Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Jun)

The most splendid mountain scenery in 🇯🇵

📍Kamikochi (上高地) Kamikochi in Nagano Prefecture is one of the most beautiful mountainous places in Japan. It offers breathtaking views through all seasons but it’s said to be the most beautiful in autumn and summer. I went there in summer and was very surprised by its beauty. The majestic mountain ranges seem to embrace the surrounding landscape, the clear water flowing on the Azusa River, the green forest, all create a wonderful picture of nature. When traveling to Kamikochi I recommend you to: 1. Experience the spectacular views of the Hotaka Range peaks from Kappabashi Bridge. And if you come there in summer, try sitting by the Azusa river and touch the water, it’s surprisingly freezing. 2. Take a hike out to Myojin Pond 3. Go for a trekking adventure in the alpine wonderland of the Northern Japan Alps #japan #mytripvlog #awesomepic #summervacation #celebratewithtrip #2023travelwish #kamikochi

This bridge is the "city center" of peaceful and tranquilat Kamikochi. 5mins walk from the bus terminal, several hotels along with restaurants, shops and snack counters are located at each side of the bridge. Further down (same side of the bus terminal) you can find free public toilet if you dont feel like donating 100yen to use the toilet at the bus terminal. Another 5 mins further is the nice konashidaira campsite. Great place with a nice view! We really had a nice time, even though we walked many km. I will totally come again in the future, if i have the chance.

Kappabashi is the center of Kamikochi, and around the Kappabashi bridge you can find amenities like a visitors center, small restaurants and hotels, and some shops. This hike covers mostly flat terrain and requires little to no hiking experience. If you want to do hike you can go to the Myojin Pond and back to Kappabashi via a different trail. This will take an additional 3.5 hours, and it is very much worth the trek. Myojin Pond is another famous highlight in Kamikochi with a tranquil atmosphere, a small shrine, and pretty foliage in autumn.

Japan Alps trekking for beginners

Kamikochi is surprisingly accessible and relatively “low effort” for a tourist to enjoy the full majesty of nature. Taking the Alpico bus from Matsumoto Station to Taisho Pond takes about 1.5hr and you can start the leisurely trek upwards, or simply continue riding the bus all the way to Kamikochi bus terminal where it is bustling with food shop and the amazing view from the Kappa Bridge. Take note the route is usually closed from November for Winter. #tripblazers #fallingforfall #nationalpark #japan #flowerlover #naturelover

Matsumoto-jō Castle

#thingstodo Put this on your list if you want to see castles in Japan. You can get a free tour in English . See kiosk near entry . Walk around moat is free but entry fee for castle . Best photos are in afternoon. The red bridge on the north west corner is a good photo spot. Walk directly south on the Main Street to get great local noodles. You can walk it from the train station and easy flat route. In the late Fall you can see the snow capped mountains in the distance.

Autumn Whispers: Enchanting Escapes🍁

1⃣️Matsumoto Castle, Nagano, Japan🇯🇵-P1 🏯🍁 Striking black and white architecture illuminated by autumn leaves. 🌊🌄 Reflective waters add beauty to this historical site. 📸🌳 A must-visit for history buffs and nature enthusiasts. 🍂🏠 Explore Autumnal Charm in a Historic Lane 🍁🏠 2⃣️New Swan Stone Castle, Germany🇩🇪-P2 🌳🏰 Step into a storybook at the enchanting New Swan Stone Castle. 🍂🖼️ A kaleidoscope of fall colors frames this fairy tale backdrop. 🚶♂️💑 Perfect for romantic strolls and peaceful reflection. 🍂⛪ Embrace the Autumn Hues at a Secluded Chapel 🍁⛪ 3⃣️Washington Island Stavkirke, Washington, USA🇺🇸-P3 🌲🏞️ A hidden gem surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage. 🌅🍁 Rustic charm and fiery autumn colors create a serene escape. 🤫👫 Ideal for quiet contemplation or cozy afternoons. 🍁🏯 Bask in the Radiance of Autumn at a Traditional Pagoda 🍂🏯 4⃣️St John's Gate, London, UK🇬🇧-P4 🌉🍁 Ancient architecture meets golden autumn leaves. 🚶♀️🌆 Picturesque setting for leisurely walks or romantic moments. 🍃🎩 Feel the history and charm of old London. 🍁🌉 Experience Rustic Charm with Autumnal Hues and Ancient Bridges 🍂🌉 5⃣️Shinkyo Bridge, Nikko, Japan🇯🇵-P5 🌉🍂 Ancient bridge set against vibrant autumn leaves. 📷🍁 A picturesque spot for photography and peaceful moments. 🌳🌿 Perfect blend of nature's splendor and historical craftsmanship. 🍁🌊 Marvel at the Spectacular Autumn Cascade at Huayan Waterfall 🍂🌊 6⃣️Huayan Waterfall, Japan日本-P6 🏞️🍁 Breathtaking waterfall amidst a canvas of autumn colors. 🌈💦 The sound of cascading water enhances the serene ambiance. 🌲🍃 A rejuvenating spot for nature lovers and tranquility seekers. 🍁 Each destination offers a unique experience, weaving the magic of autumn into historic and natural settings. Perfect for romantic getaways or picturesque adventures! 🌟🍂

Matsumoto-jō Castle

#localescapes Getting There - 4-1 Marunouchi, Matsumoto, Nagano City, Japan. Attractions - Japan’s premier historic Castle, A beautiful Japanese ancient architecture building with five - storey building combining with vermilion bridges and stonework which built in late 16th century. Historic cultural sites. Stunning views of the rice fields from the rooftop. Entrance fee: 490 to 700 Yen opening hours: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Matsumoto

The castle in Matsumoto is rather small when compared to Nagoya, but you can access to the top. Everyone will be given a plastic bag for putting your shoe in and walk with bare feet. Some of the stairs are really steep, high (approximately 40cm per step) and narrow (but still keep 2 ways at the same time). Definitely need to watch out while climbing up and down. Overall, worthwhile to pay a visit!

The museum a must-visit for art enthusiasts 🇯🇵

#japantrip Visiting The Matsumoto City Museum of Art is a captivating experience, especially for fans of contemporary art. The museum, located in Matsumoto, is dedicated to showcasing works from artists associated with the city, with a primary focus on the renowned Kusama Yayoi. Born in Matsumoto in 1929, Kusama is celebrated globally for her vibrant and striking artwork. The museum's main attraction is its extensive collection of her pieces, including her famous "Pumpkin" on Naoshima Island. Kusama's distinctive style, characterized by bold colors and repetitive patterns, offers a mesmerizing glimpse into her unique artistic vision, making the museum a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Revisiting Matsumoto City Museum of Art 🇯🇵

#thingstodo When visiting Nagano area in Japan, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art is a must-visit! In fact, we enjoyed it so much, we were there for a second visit. Not to be missed - Matsumoto Museum of Art’s most popular attraction is their permanent Yayoi Kusama works. The art is modern and wildly expressive. Highly recommended for all art lovers! My rating: 4.5 ⭐️ out of 5!

Kappa bashi

Kappa Bridge is a suspension bridge over the Azusa River in the center of Kamikochi, not far from the bus terminal. Several hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops can be found around the bridge.The structure of the bridge is wooden and it has become a distinctive symbol of Kamikochi. Kappa Bridge is especially popular as a photo spot with a terrific view of the Hotaka Peaks and Mt. Myojindake that can been seen when facing upriver. Looking downriver, one has a good view of Mt. Yakedake, the iconic peak at the entryway to Kamikochi whose smoking crater reminds us that it is a very active volcano.

Kappa Bridge

#thingstodo located in the Kamikochi Valley in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It is a popular tourist destination, and it is known for its beautiful mountain scenery and its historical significance. I recently visited Kappa Bridge, and I had a mixed experience. On the one hand, the bridge is very beautiful and the mountain scenery is stunning. However, the bridge was also very crowded, and it was difficult to enjoy the scenery without being jostled by other people. I would recommend getting off one station earlier than Kappa Bridge and hiking there. The hike is short and easy, and it is a great way to avoid the crowds. Overall, I think Kappa Bridge is worth a visit, but I would recommend going early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Here are some tips for visiting: - Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. - Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved. - Bring plenty of water and sunscreen. - Be aware of the weather conditions and dress accordingly.

Japan Alps: Kamikochi, Nagano Prefecture

Located in the birthplace of the Japanese Alps, Kamikochi offers breathtaking views and access to your next adventure. The natural history of Kamikochi is one of great elemental upheavals occurring over many thousands of years, though some of these were also quite recent. The mountains and valleys were shaped in part by glacial activity, evidence of which can still be seen in some of the most prominent peaks. Another major player in the formation of the area was Mt. Yakedake, whose eruption over 14,000 years ago changed the course of the Azusa River, causing it to run through the basin in which present day Kamikochi and Matsumoto are located. Mt. Yakedake would again play a role in shaping Kamikochi’s landscape when another eru#asia tion in the summer of 1915 dammed the Azusa River, creating Taisho Pond. It should be mentioned that Mt. Yakedake is the only active volcano in the Northern Alps and still proclaims its fury to the heavens by constantly emitting a plume of smoke. #japan #nationalpark #travel #nagano #kamikochi #mountains #hiking #asia

Taisho Ike Pond

#thingstodo A stunning lake view, a great start point to the miraculous trip to kamigochi. It does worth to spend few day here to feel how amazing our nature is.Very beautiful place to see the stunning views of Japan alps. The water in this pond is so clear that you can see the bottom of the pond. In a good weather day, you can see the mountains reflected on the pond. If you want to visit this place and want to make a short walking to Kappa bridge (3 km), getting off the bus at Taisho-ike bus stop.