Things to do in Matsumoto

Activities, attractions and tours

A traditional Japanese pagoda by a calm lake with autumn trees in the background.
A bustling restaurant with wooden interiors, Japanese menu signs, and patrons seated at tables.
A street with shops and people walking.
A cityscape with autumn foliage, a park with a pond, and distant mountains.
A traditional Japanese storefront with wooden signage, hanging lanterns, and a brick entrance.

Things to do

Nagano/Matsumoto: Matsumoto Castle and Narai-juku Day Trip

Nagano/Matsumoto: Matsumoto Castle and Narai-juku Day Trip

€152
per adult
Nagano/Matsumoto: Matsumoto Castle and Narai-juku Day Trip
Matsumoto Castle Town Walking Tour

Matsumoto Castle Town Walking Tour

€53
per adult
Matsumoto Castle Town Walking Tour
Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience

Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience

€74
per adult
Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience
Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience

Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience

€74
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience
Matsumoto: Soba Noodle Making & Fresh Wasabi Lunch

Matsumoto: Soba Noodle Making & Fresh Wasabi Lunch

€75
per adult
Matsumoto: Soba Noodle Making & Fresh Wasabi Lunch
Wasabi Farm Walking Tour & Lunch

Wasabi Farm Walking Tour & Lunch

€59
per adult
Wasabi Farm Walking Tour & Lunch
Matsumoto Discovery - Half Day Walking Tour

Matsumoto Discovery - Half Day Walking Tour

€53
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Matsumoto Discovery - Half Day Walking Tour
Matsumoto Castle Tour & Soba Noodle Experience

Matsumoto Castle Tour & Soba Noodle Experience

€78
per adult
Matsumoto Castle Tour & Soba Noodle Experience
See all activities in Matsumoto
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

What to do in Matsumoto

Stay near popular Matsumoto attractions

A traditional Japanese castle with multiple tiers, surrounded by autumn foliage and a stone bridge.

Matsumoto Castle

9.2/10 (508 reviews)
Known as "Crow Castle" for its striking black exterior, Matsumoto Castle stands as one of Japan's oldest original fortresses. Climb its steep wooden staircases to discover samurai armour and views of the Japanese Alps.
See properties

Where to stay in Matsumoto

Find the best Matsumoto areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Asama Onsen

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Asama Onsen and surrounding area, you can visit Asama Hot Spring and Utsukushigahara Onsen.

A sunflower field with mountains in the background.
Photo by くろふね
Open Photo by くろふね

Niimura

When in Niimura, you can plan a visit to Japan Ukiyo-e Museum and Matsumoto Castle, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

A traditional building with a tower, ornate entrance, and symmetrical windows.

Kaichi

While Kaichi isn't home to many top sights, Matsumoto Castle and Matsumoto Scale Museum are some notable places to visit nearby.

A river with a bridge, cherry blossoms, and mountains in the background.
Photo by Qurren
Open Photo by Qurren

Tsukama

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Tsukama and surrounding area, you can visit Matsumoto City Museum of Art and Matsumoto Performing Arts Center.

Sasabe

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Sasabe and surrounding area, you can visit Japan Ukiyo-e Museum and Matsumoto Timepiece Museum.

A traditional Japanese street with wooden buildings, a torii gate, and a mountainous backdrop.

Takayama

A bicycle parked by a guardrail with a snow-capped mountain in the background.

Kiso

Frequently asked questions

Is Matsumoto worth visiting?
Famous for its nature and dining, discovering cool things to do in Matsumoto is easy. Remember to add Asama Hot Spring to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Matsumoto?
Asama Hot Spring and Hinoki Hot Spring are two excellent places to start your getaway adventures. Remember to explore the dining and retail options in Matsumoto while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Matsumoto?
Asama Hot Spring is one of the top tourist attractions in Matsumoto and should be high on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Matsumoto?
Three days in Matsumoto is enough to enjoy the city's major attractions. Many guests stay for two days on average. Asama Hot Spring, Matsumoto City Museum of Art and Utsukushigahara Onsen are among the top-rated sights. Want to experience more? Hang around a while longer to visit nearby hotspots like Nagano.
Is Matsumoto a walkable city?
With popular neighbourhoods and top attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Matsumoto is a good destination to experience on foot. Wander between Asama Hot Spring and Matsumoto City Museum of Art. Then take a stroll through Kakeyu Onsen, located 3 kilometres from the centre, and Asama Onsen, which is about 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Matsumoto with kids?
Planning what to do in Matsumoto with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're travelling with little ones or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly sights to keep everyone happy here.

What to do in Matsumoto for adults?
Izutsu Winery and Kametaya Sake Brewery are just a few of the things to do in Matsumoto. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Matsumoto?
In Matsumoto, Joyama Park is a top spot for anyone looking to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the green spaces and other neighbourhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a great way to discover the best free things to do in Matsumoto.