Perfect Day Trip from Tokyo - Matsumoto Stroll!

#tokyostroll 🚆 How to Get to Matsumoto from Tokyo 📍 Location: Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture 🚅 By Train: Take the Limited Express Azusa from Shinjuku Station (approx. 2.5 hours) 🚌 By Bus: A cheaper alternative is the highway bus (approx. 3.5 hours) Matsumoto is a hidden gem that offers a blend of history, culture, and nature—perfect for a refreshing escape from Tokyo! 🏯 Best Things to Do in Matsumoto in One Day 🖤 Visit Matsumoto Castle – Known as the "Crow Castle" for its black exterior, this National Treasure is one of Japan’s most beautiful and well-preserved castles. Climb to the top for stunning views of the Japanese Alps. 🍜 Try Local Soba Noodles – Nagano is famous for its buckwheat soba, and Matsumoto has some of the best handmade soba restaurants. Head to Kobayashi Soba or Nomugi for an authentic experience. 🎨 Explore the Matsumoto City Museum of Art – If you love Yayoi Kusama’s polka dot art, don’t miss this museum showcasing her colorful works—she was born here! 🏘️ Wander Nakamachi Street – This charming area is lined with traditional Edo-period storehouses, boutique shops, and cozy cafés. It’s a great place to pick up handmade crafts and souvenirs. 🛖 Relax at Asama Onsen – If you have time, soak in a traditional hot spring at Asama Onsen, a 15-minute bus ride from Matsumoto. 🍶 Try Local Sake at a Brewery – Matsumoto has some excellent sake breweries. Stop by Takagi Brewery to sample smooth, locally brewed sake. ⭐ Top Tips for Your Matsumoto Day Trip 🎟️ Book Azusa Limited Express Tickets in Advance – Seats can fill up quickly, so reserve early, especially during peak travel seasons. 🏯 Visit Matsumoto Castle Early – The castle gets busy by midday, so it’s best to explore it first thing in the morning. 🍜 Try Soba at Off-Peak Hours – Popular soba spots have long lines at lunch, so go before 12 PM or after 2 PM for a more relaxed experience. 📸 Best Photo Spot – For the most iconic view of Matsumoto Castle, head to the castle’s moat area and capture its reflection in the water. Matsumoto is a perfect mix of history, food, and scenic beauty, making it one of the best day trips from Tokyo. Whether you're admiring the castle, tasting soba, or exploring charming streets, you'll leave with great memories of Japan’s countryside charm!