Located in the shadow the North Japan Alps, Matsumoto is a small historic city best-known for its castle. As a registered National Treasure, Matsumoto Castle is without doubt the beacon that draw...
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10:04 AM
25 Things To Do Around Matsumoto & Where To Stay
Located in the shadow the North Japan Alps, Matsumoto is a small historic city best-known for its castle. As a registered National Treasure, Matsumoto Castle is without doubt the beacon that draw... -
4:32 PM
Visit Matsumoto: Everything You Need to Know
Most famous for its 400-year old castle, Matsumoto is a small but lively city with a rich history and burgeoning arts and dining scene. Located in Nagano Prefecture, the city lies in a valley bel... -
10:12 AM
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Japan Set to Lower Travel Advisories for Certain Countries
It’s important to start this blog by saying that at this time, travel to Japan for tourism purposes remains extremely difficult and for nationals of many countries, impossible. In total, as of Se... -
4:20 PM
#SNOWMONKEYRESORTSLOCAL: Nagano in Autumn – ‘Koyo’ Season Will Soon Be Here!
Over the past week, the temperature has certainly
begun to drop here in Nagano. The days remain pleasant and warm but the heat and
humidity of summer have gone, and nights are starting to feel cr... -
3:45 PM
#SNOWMONKEYRESORTSLOCAL: ‘Go To Travel’ Extended to Tokyo as of October 1st 2020
As highlighted in our recent blog article – ‘#SNOWMONKEYRESORTS LOCAL: What is Japan’s ‘Go To Travel’ Campaign?’ – Japanese citizens and foreign residents of Japan are currently eligible for by s... -
2:27 PM
#SNOWMONKEYRESORTSLOCAL: What is Japan’s ‘Go To Travel’ Campaign?
For our friends living in Japan, you have no doubt heard of the national 'Go To' campaign by now. Under that campaign, those living in Japan – including Japanese citizens and foreign residents – ... -
8:41 AM
Enjoy Nagano in Summer – Open Spaces, Cool Evenings & Lots to Do!
If
you are living in Nagano or headed this way over the next few weeks, it’s a
great time to enjoy some of the many attractions and activities on offer in and
around the city. Nagano isn’t immune... -
8:23 AM
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Fruit-picking in Nagano – an Ideal Outdoor Activity in Summer & Autumn
As we head into the middle
of summer, there’s one thing on our mind here in Nagano… fruit! Lots and lots
of tasty fruit!Blessed with an ideal climate for growing many varieties of fruit, ... -
10:27 AM
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Relax & Renew in the Hot Springs of Central Japan
When planning your travel in Central Japan,
we recommend staying in the region’s many outstanding hot spring towns. Known
as ‘onsen’ in Japan, natural hot springs are found throughout the prefect... -
2:32 PM
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Clean Green & Healthy – Discover Central Japan
When researching and planning a visit to Japan, understanding the regions and which areas are nearby others, can be a little confusing – particularly for first-time visitors.While some n... -
12:52 PM
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Clean Green & Healthy – Accessing Medical Assistance in Japan during COVID-19
In anticipation of the borders opening in future
and travel resuming under the cloud of COVID-19, one of the most important
questions travellers can ask is, should I need it, what access will I h... -
9:00 AM
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Clean Green & Healthy – Choosing your Accommodation in Japan
When considering your future travel to Japan, one of the biggest decisions is where to stay and what to expect once you arrive.Japan is one of the cleanest countries and hygiene-focused ... -
9:57 AM
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Clean Green & Healthy – When Can I Travel to Japan & is it Safe?
At the time of writing, entry to Japan is still banned for many foreign passport-holders. There is however conversation about how and when entry bans will be lifted with a strong focus on opening... -
8:21 AM
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Clean Green & Healthy Japan
As announced in our recent blog, our website has been updated to include a section dedicated to COVID-19 including pages intended to help you make an informed decision about travelling to Japan. ... -
12:38 PM
Snow Monkey Resorts Update: Introducing our Dedicated COVID-19 Information Pages
In response to the ongoing impact of coronavirus on global tourism, we have revised our website to include information and updates regarding COVID-19.From our homepage you can access our... -
11:34 AM
How To Get To Matsumoto
As home to one of Japan’s last remaining original castles along with many other great attractions, Matsumoto is one of the most popular destinations in Central Japan. Easily accessible from major... -
4:21 PM
From Matsumoto: How to Get to the Snow Monkey Park
As home to one of Japan's last remaining castles, Matsumoto is one of Central Japan's most enjoyable destinations. This small city is home to a thriving arts scene with many good cafes, shops and ... -
4:19 PM
From Kamikochi: How to Get to the Snow Monkey Park
Often described as one of the country’s most beautiful natural treasures, Kamikochi sits high in the Hida Mountains – Japan’s highest mountain range. Also known as the 'Kita Alps' or 'North Japan ... -
2:30 PM
From Matsumoto Airport: How to Get to the Snow Monkey Park
Shinshu-Matsumoto Airport – or more simply put, Matsumoto Airport – is located around 10km from central Matsumoto City. The airport services domestic destinations including Fukuoka, Sapporo and Ko... -
10:40 AM
Limited Express Shinano
Running from Nagano Station to Nagoya Station, the Limited Express Wide View Shinano connects two of Central Japan’s major cities and travel hubs. Taking its name for the large windows which afford ... -
10:10 AM
Limited Express Azusa
Running from Shinjuku Station to Matsumoto Station, the Limited Express Azusa operates on the Chuo Main Line and in doing so, connects the capital to Central Japan. The Azusa is o... -
9:55 AM
Limited Express Azusa Timetable
Running from Shinjuku Station to Matsumoto Station, the Limited Express Azusa connects the capital to Central Japan and stops at the following stations:Shinjuku / Tachikawa / Hachioji / Otsuki / K... -
8:48 AM
Oito Line inc. Hakuba Train Services
Running from Matsumoto Station to Minami-Otari Station, the Oito Line covers approximately 70km including Hokata Station in Azumino and Hakuba Station, one of the main transport hubs when accessi... -
6:21 AM
Matsumoto Airport
Located around 10km from Matsumoto City, Shinshu-Matsumoto Airport – or simply, Matsumoto Airport – handles domestic flights to popular destinations including Fukuoka in Kyushu, Sapporo in Hokkaid... -
5:55 AM
Matsumoto Station
Matsumoto Station is a small station connecting the city to nearby destinations including Nagano City, Nagoya, and eTokyo via Shinjuku Station.Located in the centre of Matsumoto, the ... -
5:50 AM
Hotaka Station
Hotaka Station is a small but very convenient access point for travellers moving to and from Azumino. The station is serviced one line – the Oito Line – running from nearby Matsumoto Station, arou... -
12:41 PM
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Plan Your Visit to on of Japan’s Most Stunning Natural Landscapes
Nestled high in the Chubu Sangaku National Park, Kamikochi is one of Nagano and Japan’s most beautiful alpine landscapes. Renowned for its pristine nature and spiritual importance, the stunning alpi... -
1:24 PM
Azumino O-Fune Matsuri (Ship Festival)
The Azuimno O-Fune Matsuri or ‘Ship Festival’ is a raucous and fun local event taking place over two day, from September 26th to 27th each year. Celebrating the founding-legends of Azumino itself, th... -
3:17 PM
Azumino Fireworks Festival
Taking place on August 14th each year, the Azumino Fireworks Festival lays claim to being the third largest display in Nagano Prefecture. Set against the faint silhouette of the North Alps, around 12... -
2:31 PM
2020 Nagano Cherry Blossom Forecast
Known as 'sakura', cherry blossoms are synonymous with Japan and are seen to embody the fragile beauty of life itself. As the weather warms in spring, the flowers bloom and Japan will emerge from th... -
1:10 PM
Azumino Kamiakari
Held every year in the early cold of winter, the Azumino Kamikari is held at the beautiful Hotaka Shrine. Over two thousand bamboo lanterns light up the shrine and surround precinct, mimicking the sa... -
2:28 PM
ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY & DISCOVER THE TRUE NATURE OF JAPAN: INTRODUCING OUR 2-DAY PRIVATE TOUR TO AZUMINO, NAGANO
Located within three hours of Tokyo, Azumino is just such a region - a place of quiet villages, farms and orchards, temples and shrines - set against the stunning backdrop of the Northern Alps. Ea... -
2:07 PM
Matsumoto Castle
As a registered National Treasure, Matsumoto Castle is one of the region’s most important cultural assets. Set against the impressive backdrop of the Northern Alps, the castle dates back to the end of... -
2:00 PM
Matsumoto Cultural Experiences
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9:21 AM
RECOMMENDED FIREWORKS FESTIVALS IN NAGANO
You can't say that you have experienced the Japanese summer until you see one of Japan's astonishing fireworks festivals! Fireworks in Japan are an essential summer tradition with a long history and a... -
1:52 PM
Kamikochi
Located approximately 50km to the west of Matsumoto City, the stunning alpine valley of Kamikochi is one of Nagano’s most iconic destinations. Stretching 18km in length from Mt Yari in the north, past... -
4:57 PM
ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY & ENJOY THE BEST OF JAPAN THIS AUTUMN! BEST DAY TOURS FROM TOKYO DURING THE RUGBY WORLD CUP 2019!
The world will turn its focus to Japan this autumn, as it hosts the Rugby World Cup from September 20th to November 2nd 2019. With 13 host venues spread throughout Japan – from Hokkaido in the nor... -
9:36 AM
Getting Around Azumino – Rental Bicycle, Bus & Taxi
So, you’ve made it to Azumino, the gateway to the Japan Alps and home of Daio Wasabi Farm. If you have some time to spare, there is plenty to see in the city including many art museums, hot sprin... -
9:34 AM
How To Get To Azumino From The Snow Monkey Park
There is more than one way to get to the Azumino area from the Jigokudani Monkey Park using public transport. Keep reading to the different options and decide what best fits your schedule. But no... -
3:32 PM
NAGANO’S BEST SPRING/SUMMER TOURS! COMBINE TOURS & CREATE YOUR OWN MULTIDAY PACKAGE!
As Nagano’s No.1 tour operator, Snow Monkey Resorts continues to welcome new and old friends into the region, as more and more people discover the seasonal beauty of Central Japan. There’s never a... -
3:51 PM
RECOMMENDED TRAILS IN NAGANO PART 1: MOUNTAIN TRAILS
Here in Nagano during the the month of May, the rice fields are filled with water in preparation for planting. The flooded fields create a mirror-like surface, reflecting the majestic snow-capped ... -
3:00 PM
Matsumoto City Museum of Art inc. the Kusama Yayoi Collection
The Matsumoto City Museum of Art exhibits artworks by artists with an association to the city, across both permanent and temporary exhibitions. Most notably, Kusama Yayoi – arguably Japan’s best-know... -
2:55 PM
Nawate-Dori (Frog Street)
Matsumoto’s Nawate-dori shopping street is located between Yohashira Shrine and Metoba River, at the midpoint between JR Matsumoto Station and the castle. While it’s a relatively short precinct at on... -
2:54 PM
Nakamichi Street
Located between JR Matsumoto Station and Matsumoto Castle, the Nakamachi Street was the traditional heart of the city’s merchant trading and now a thriving shopping precinct. Situated along the old ‘... -
2:53 PM
Japan Ukiyo-e Museum
The Japan Ukiyo-e Museum is said to boast the world’s largest collection of ‘ukiyo-e’ (woodblock print) artworks – more than 100,000 —pieces collected by the local Sakai family. While the collection ... -
2:52 PM
Ishii Miso Brewery
Located around 20-minutes walk from Matsumoto Station, Ishii Miso is a great option for visitors wanting to sample, buy or enjoy a meal at one of Nagano’s oldest and best miso breweries. Made from fe... -
2:49 PM
Miso Brewery Tour & Lunch in Matsumoto
Did you know that Nagano Prefecture is the largest producer of ‘miso’ in Japan? Made from fermented soybean, miso is a staple of all Japanese kitchens and underpins countless dishes you are sure to b... -
2:48 PM
Private Walking Tour in Matsumoto
As Nagano Prefecture’s second largest city, Matsumoto offers visitors lots to explore and enjoy all year round. From its iconic castle to its historic streets full of great craft stores, eateries and... -
2:47 PM
Matsumoto Night Tour: Izakaya Dining & Castle Illumination
The best way to discover any country and get to know the people is through its food and drink! This casual yet engaging guided tour takes you to multiple locations in Matsumoto City at night so you c... -
2:46 PM
Sake Brewery Tour in Matsumoto
Nagano Prefecture is Japan’s second largest producer of ‘sake’ and as such, visiting a brewery while in the region is a great way to dive that little bit deeper into the local culture. Kametaya Sake ... -
2:45 PM
Taiko Drum Experience in Matsumoto
As a proud castle town, Matsumoto is the ideal place to try your hand at traditional ‘taiko’ drums. Originally used during warfare, taiko are now practiced purely for ceremony and entertainment, taki... -
2:44 PM
Samurai Experience in Matsumoto
Famous of its iconic castle, of the story of Matsumoto is that of legendary samurai class, that ruled the city and country for hundreds of years. The legacy of the samurai is evident throughout Matsu... -
2:43 PM
Tea Ceremony Experience in Matsumoto
Known as ‘cha-do’ in Japanese, tea ceremonies were originally introduced to Japan from China and over the centuries have been refined into a uniquely experience – perhaps the most quintessential ‘Jap... -
2:42 PM
Soba-Making Experience in Matsumoto
Made from buckwheat, ‘soba’ noodles are one of the most popular dishes in Japan and nowhere more so than in Matsumoto. While in the city you will come across lots of soba restaurants with many promot... -
2:41 PM
Kimono & Ninja Costume Rental in Matsumoto
Visitors to Matsumoto will enjoy one of Central Japan’s most historic city where the past lives on in the form of its famous castle and historic streets full of old merchant stores. Travelers wanting... -
2:40 PM
Traditional Papercraft Experience in Matsumoto
Known as ‘washi’, traditional Japanese paper plays an important role in country's thriving arts and crafts scene. With a history dating back more than one thousand years, this seemingly simple past-t... -
2:39 PM
Guided Cycling In & Around Matsumoto
Matsumoto City and the surrounding region is an ideal area to explore by bicycle. Ride NAGANO provides guided cycling tours following recommended courses or customizable to your needs, interests and ... -
2:38 PM
‘Karakuri Byobu’ (Papercraft) Experience in Matsumoto
Japan’s tradition of papercrafts is known throughout the world and in many ways, defines the Japanese ability to take the seemingly simple and through studied attention, turn it into a fine craft of ... -
2:37 PM
Matsumoto Water Tour: Rafting in Azumino
Travelers heading to Matsumoto from April until October and looking for a tranquil, relaxing activity might like to consider rafting in nearby Azumino. A rural enclave within easy reach of Matsumoto ... -
2:35 PM
Daio Wasabi Farm
Located in the beautiful region of Azumino and set against the background of the Japanese Northern Alps, Daio Wasabi Farm is the one of the largest producers of wasabi in Japan. Covering an expansive ... -
2:30 PM
Rokuzan Art Museum
One of 18 museums making-up the Azumino ‘Art Line’, the Rokuzan Art Museum explores the work of sculptor Rokuzan Ogiwara. Considered a pioneer of modern Japanese sculpture, Rokuzan’s work explores th... -
2:25 PM
Chihiro Art Museum
Dedicated to the life and work of children’s book illustrator and painter Chihiro Iwasaki, the museum consists of five exhibition spaces featuring her work and other artists. Through her life, Iwasak... -
2:20 PM
Takahashi Setsuro Art Museum
Housed in a tranquil modern building, the museum is dedicated to the work of Takahaashi Setsuro, an acclaimed lacquer artist. Setsuro applied traditional techniques in creating dynamic and often abst... -
2:03 PM
Local Food & Drink in Azumino
Known for its abundant farmlands producing some of Japan’s best fruit and vegetables – most famously apples, ‘soba’ (buckwheat noodles) and ‘wasabi’ – Azumino is already known for its delicious food ... -
2:02 PM
Wasabi-picking & Cycling in Azumino
Located between Matsumoto and the Hakuba Valley, and in the shadow of the North Japan Alps, Azumino is a tranquil rural enclave best-known for its abundant farmlands and mountain vistas. Fed by the p... -
2:00 PM
Fruit-picking in Azumino
Azumino’s climate is excellent for growing a variety of fruits, including apples, peaches, berries, persimmons, and more. The area’s fruits are so popular (especially apples) that, besides fresh frui... -
1:55 PM
Tensan Silk Museum & Weaving Experience
One of Japan’s defining characteristics is its love and refined mastery of many traditional crafts. Perfected over many generations, Japanese craft is renowned around the world for its expertise and ... -
1:00 PM
Hotaka Onsen-kyo
Hotaka Onsen-kyo is a small ‘onsen’ (hot spring) town located in the beautiful rural enclave of Azumino. Sitting in the wooded foothills of the North Japan Alps, Hotaka Onsen-kyo offers visited a rel... -
12:00 PM
TENAR Outdoor Hotel & Holistic Activities
TENAR is a holistic accommodation experience that promotes escape, relaxation and a return to balance. Located in the grounds of Azumino Hotaka View Hotel, the ‘TENAR’ unit is a small, contemporary a... -
11:00 AM
Yasuesou BIO Hotel & Holistic Experiences
As the first hotel in Asia to receive certification as a ‘BIO Hotel’, Yasuesou offers guests a unique experience designed to promote health, harmony and revitalisation. All products provided to guest... -
10:00 AM
La Casta Natural Healing Garden & Fragrance Workshops
Producing some of Japan’s best-known cosmetics and aromas, La Casta sits within a beautiful landscape garden and insight of the dramatic North Alps. As such, a visit to La Casta offers an escape from... -
9:00 AM
Art & Craft Experiences in Azumino
Home to the eighteen galleries and museums of the Azumino ‘Art Line’, along with multiple venues dedicated to providing holistic and therapeutic workshops, Azumino is an ideal destination for visitor... -
2:00 PM
Utsukushigahara Highlands & Open-Air Museum
Within easy reach of Matsumoto City, Utsukushigahara is a highland area known for its panoramic views during the day and star-filled sky at night. Rising to around 2000 metres above sea level, the hi... -
9:14 AM
CYCLING THROUGH RURAL AZUMINO TO MATSUMOTO CASTLE!
As mentioned in the recent cherry blossom forecast, Nagano’s long winter has finally come to an end!The snows that attract skiers from all over the world are giving way to the leaves, buds, an... -
5:44 PM
FIVE RECOMMENDED CHERRY BLOSSOMS SPOTS IN THE MATSUMOTO-AZUMINO AREA IN NAGANO
Are you arriving in Japan too late to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo? Don’t worry! Given the higher elevation, Nagano Prefecture`s blossom trees bloom later than in the capital, typically sometime from ... -
2:35 PM
2019 NAGANO CHERRY BLOSSOM FORECAST
Spring in Japan brings beautiful weather and a welcome end to the cold of winter. As the weather warms and winter clothing is shed, the spirits lift and the world seems fresh and new again. A popu... -
9:46 AM
20 Things To Do In Azumino & Where To Stay
Located within three hours of Tokyo, Azumino offers visitors a chance to experience the tradition and remarkable beauty of rural Japan with numerous cultural highlights - both old and n... -
4:42 PM
INTRODUCING AZUMINO: 15 THINGS TO DO IN NAGANO’S NEXT MUST-VISIT DESTINATION!
Nagano is home to most of Japan's highest mountains, spread across three mountain ranges that collectively make-up the Japanese Alps. This dramatic landscape offers visitors some of the most impressiv... -
3:43 PM
How To: Getting to Nagano from Tokyo by Shinkansen
When heading to Nagano from Tokyo, the shinkansen - often referred to as the 'Bullet Train' - is by far, the fastest and easiest way to get here! Taking between 80 and 110 minutes (depending on whic... -
5:48 PM
INTRODUCING OUR NEW 2-DAY SNOW MONKEY TOUR: NAGANO TO TAKAYAMA via MATSUMOTO
Nagano and the surrounding regions that make-up central Japan are a place of natural beauty, typified by high mountain peaks, and deep culture found in its historic towns, temples and castles. Often o... -
4:30 PM
INTRODUCING OUR NEW SNOW MONKEY WINTER TOUR FROM HAKUBA!
Snow Monkey Resorts is excited to announce our award-winning 1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake Tour is now available to guests based in Hakuba this winter, with a daily shuttle servic... -
9:24 AM
Hike Japan’s North Alps Mountain Trails
One of three mountain ranges making-up the ‘Japanese Alps’, the ‘North Alps’ boast some of the country’s highest peaks and spectacular alpine scenery. Visitors wanting to ascend high into the mountain... -
11:38 AM
Mount Norikura & Norikura Kogen
Within easy reach of Kamikochi, Mount Norikura – or Norikuradake – stands at 3026 metres above sea level yet offers comfortable and leisurely walking trails for anyone of reasonable fitness. In winte... -
11:39 AM
Shirahone Onsen
Lying nearby the popular destinations of Mount Norikura and Kamikochi, Shirahone Onsen is a small hot spring enclave deep within the Chubu Sangaku National Park The area is home to a number of guesth... -
10:10 AM
Matsumoto Area
There are three main accommodation locales in Matsumoto City - central Matsumoto, Asama Onsen, and the mountainous getaway of Kamikochi -please refer to our Kamikochi page. In central Matsumoto, yo... -
9:07 AM
Hotaka Onsen-kyo Area
Hotaka Onsenkyo is Azumino’s hot spring resort area located in the wooded foothills of the Japan Alps. If you are looking for a relaxing stay in the Japanese countryside, this area is an excellent ... -
11:08 AM
Kamikochi Area
Kamikochi is one the highlights of visiting Nagano, one that leaves a lasting impression on visitors. This stunning region is a natural basin nestled within the Chubu Sangaku National Park which pr... -
11:43 AM
Norikura Kogen Area
Norikura Kogen or the Norikura Highlands is a large plateau below and providing access to Mount Norikura. The area is home to a large number of hotels and guesthouses, with many if not most setup t... -
11:45 AM
Shirahone Onsen Area
Located nearby Mount Norikura and Kamikochi, Shirahone Onsen is a small grouping of guesthouses set deep within the Chubu Sangaku National Park. Translating as the "White Bone Hot Spring", the wate... -
3:14 PM
Matsumoto Craft Fair
May is known as the Month of Crafts in Matsumoto and every year on the last Saturday and Sunday of May the Matsumoto Craft Fair is held at the Agata-no-Mori park. Here people from all over Japan come ... -
10:46 AM
Tatsuno Hotaru (Firefly) Festival “Japan’s fireflies dance”
The Tatsuno Hotaru Festival (辰野ほたる祭り)is held every year in mid-June at the town of Tatsuno. The mystical fireflies will be abundant, over 10,000 if lucky, in this area and it attracts people from far ... -
10:48 AM
Matsumoto Bon Bon Festival
Matsumoto Bon Bon is a music festival where various groups of locals come together and dance through the streets of Matsumoto on the first Saturday of August. The dance performed is a very easy dance...
