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Blog Matsumoto
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Matsumoto Castle
There are only five castles designated as National Treasures in Japan. Among them, Matsumoto Castle is particularly popular with French visitors. A hospitality team dressed as ninjas and other characters helps to entertain the visitors. It is said to have originated as Fukashi Castle, built by the Ogasawara clan who ruled Shinano Province during the Warring States period; the main keep and the castle town were subsequently developed by Ishikawa Kazumasa, a close aide to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first Shogun of the Edo Shogunate. During busy periods such as public holidays, queues can stretch to over two hours, and the…
- Matsumoto
- Spot introduction
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Daiō Wasabi Farm
On tours that include Matsumoto, a visit to Daiō Wasabi Farm in Azumino is almost always included, alongside Matsumoto Castle. This area is blessed with natural spring water—filtered over many years by meltwater from the Northern Alps and residual snow from glaciers—and, as the water temperature remains stable throughout the year, it is ideal for wasabi cultivation. The vast farm also features a watermill, and at this time of year, when the greenery is at its best, visitors can enjoy scenery reminiscent of an Impressionist painting.
- Matsumoto
- Spot introduction