Recommended Driving Spots from Matsumoto

Matsumoto serves as a great base for traveling in Nagano. Here are three recommended spots to visit by rental car from Matsumoto! 📍Matsumoto Castle Address: 4-1 Marunouchi, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, 390-0873 Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM A National Treasure, Matsumoto Castle is a historic castle built during the Sengoku period. Surrounded by a water moat, the reflection of the castle on the water is stunning. Visiting in the evening is highly recommended. 📍Rokuzan Art Museum Address: 5095-1 Hotaka, Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture, 399-8303 Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:10 PM Admission Fee: Adults ¥900 The museum is surrounded by greenery and features architecture that feels almost un-Japanese. It’s a symbolic tourist spot in Azumino. 📍Utsukushigahara Highlands Address: Iriyamabe, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, 390-0222 Parking available. The Utsukushigahara Highlands are home to grazing cows and horses. The "Tower of Beauty" standing in the grasslands looks like a piece of art. In summer, it’s a cool retreat perfect for escaping the heat.