Matsumoto

“Matsumoto? More like ‘Match-moto’,” a young boy giggled, pointing at the statue of Shinichi Suzuki outside Matsumoto Station. His mother smiled, correcting him gently. “Matsumoto,” she repeated, “and that’s a statue of a famous music teacher.” Matsumoto, nestled in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, is a city brimming with history and charm. Matsumoto has evolved from its humble beginnings as a small border post in the Sengoku period. Today, Matsumoto is a vibrant city. Matsumoto’s most iconic landmark is undoubtedly Matsumoto Castle, often called the “Crow Castle” for its striking black and white exterior. Completed in the late 16th century, this flatland castle, or hirashiro, stands as a testament to Japanese craftsmanship. The original wooden interiors and external stonework of the main keep, or tenshukaku, have survived centuries of turmoil. Matsumoto Castle is one of only twelve castles in Japan with a surviving tenshu. It’s recognized as a National Treasure of Japan. It even survived the Meiji government’s order to destroy all feudal fortifications in 1872 thanks to the dedicated efforts of local residents. Did you know the castle was almost lost to a curse? The story goes that after the Jokyo Uprising, where Tada Kasuke was executed for protesting unfair taxes, the main keep began to lean. Many believed it was Kasuke’s curse. A local high school principal rallied the community, and the castle was saved during “the great Meiji renovation”. Beyond the castle walls, Matsumoto’s historical streets whisper tales of bygone eras. Nawate Street, with its traditional shops and car-free atmosphere, retains the charm of an old marketplace. Nearby, Nakamachi Street showcases historical kura, or storehouses, some over a century old, with their distinctive namako wall patterns. These streets offer a glimpse into Matsumoto’s merchant past, where sake brewers and kimono merchants once thrived. And if you’re thirsty, seek out Genchi Well, one of Japan’s 100 most famous waters. It’s a refreshing reminder of Matsumoto’s connection to its natural springs. So, as you wander through Matsumoto, remember the stories. From samurai and castle sieges to silk factories and modern-day musicians, Matsumoto is a city where history comes alive.