Matsumoto-Takayama: Breathtaking Nature, Endless Alpine Adventure
Nestled in the heart of central Honshu, the Matsumoto-Takayama region is a gateway to Japan’s breathtaking nature and rich cultural heritage. Framed by the majestic Northern Alps, this enchanting area spans Nagano and Gifu Prefectures, offering a journey through history, tradition, and endless alpine adventure.
The region embodies a deep harmony with nature, where traditions of craftsmanship, sustainability, and seasonal living have flourished for centuries. From fresh spring water that nourishes crops or gives rise to homegrown sake, as well as the shops and houses crafted with local wood from surrounding forests, past practices very much remain a living part of modern life. Appreciation for nature and its bounty here has been deeply ingrained in the region’s way of life for centuries—long before the concept of ‘circular economy’ existed.
In Nagano, the iconic Matsumoto Castle proudly stands as one of Japan’s few remaining original castles. The stronghold’s striking black facade, set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, transports visitors back to the era of samurai as a symbol of Japan’s feudal past. Further west, Takayama’s old streets preserve the charm of the Edo period (1603–1867) and invite visitors to step back in time, where beautifully preserved wooden townhouses, sake breweries, and morning markets provide a glimpse into Japan’s past.
In between the breathtaking areas of Matsumoto and Takayama, other mountainous areas like Kamikochi and Norikura Highlands take center stage. Nature lovers will find Kamikochi an unparalleled retreat. This alpine valley, with its crystal-clear rivers and dramatic mountain scenery, is a paradise for hikers seeking tranquility and breathtaking views. Meanwhile, the Norikura Highlands invite adventurers to explore cascading waterfalls, expansive flower fields, and Japan’s highest driveable road, leading to spectacular panoramic vistas.
Whether strolling through historic streets, hiking alpine trails, or soaking in the warmth of local hospitality, the Matsumoto-Takayama region offers a profound journey—one where history, nature, and adventure intertwine, leaving lasting impressions on all who visit.
A Feast for the Senses: Cuisine, Craft, and Natural Beauty
Travelers seeking authentic experiences outside Japan’s main cities will find the Matsumoto-Takayama region enticing. With a deep connection to heritage, sustainability, and craftsmanship, the area offers opportunities to engage with centuries-old traditions, witness breathtaking natural landscapes, and sample flavors that reflect the local way of life.
For those who seek outdoor adventures, Norikura Highlands presents a pristine alpine plateau featuring waterfalls, hiking trails, and high-altitude cycling routes. In winter, the area transforms into a wonderland for skiing and snowshoeing on Mt. Norikura. Another hidden gem is the Goshikigahara Forest, which offers exclusive guided eco-tours through untouched landscapes, where visitors can witness rare flora and fauna thriving in their natural environment. The Matsumoto Well Water, sourced from the Japan Alps, is also a defining feature of the region, with historic wells providing fresh, naturally filtered drinking water throughout the city.
Waterfalls at Goshikigahara Forest
No trip to the region is complete without indulging in its renowned cuisine. Historic breweries, including Sake Brewery Yoikana and Funasaka Sake Brewery, the latter in operation for over 200 years, offer sake tastings that highlight the delicate balance of rice, water, and fermentation.
For an unforgettable meal, Hida beef is a must-try. Fine dining at Hikariya Nishi combines French-inspired natural cuisine with local ingredients, while Ryotei Susaki offers exquisite Honzen ryori cuisine, a traditional dining style in Hida that originated during the Muromachi Period (1336 to 1573). Other standout venues include Aji-no-Yohei Restaurant, renowned for its Hida beef dishes, and Tea Room KOIDE, a serene space for premium Japanese teas.
Unique for its exceptional marbling and tenderness, Hida beef is among Japan’s most celebrated wagyu varieties. Raised in the pristine environment of Gifu Prefecture, this premium beef is carefully bred under strict standards to ensure its superior quality. It is enjoyed in sukiyaki, yakiniku, and kaiseki meals.
Hida beef
Stays Where Tradition Lives On and Luxury Finds Its Home
The Matsumoto-Takayama region offers accommodations that seamlessly blend heritage, sustainability, and relaxation. Whether it is a luxurious ryokan (traditional-style inn) with an onsen surrounded by nature or a historic guesthouse in the region’s preserved old town, each stay enhances the cultural experience and deepens the connection to its traditions.
For those seeking serenity and rejuvenation, Tobira Onsen Myojinkan, established in 1931, provides a tranquil retreat. This distinguished ryokan offers both Japanese and Western-style rooms, some featuring private open-air hot spring baths with views of the surrounding forest. Guests can indulge in kaiseki-style Japanese cuisine crafted by Chef Tetsuya Uchiyama, emphasizing local ingredients, or savor Japanese-French fusion dishes prepared by Chef Masahiro Tanabe. The onsen's therapeutic waters and serene atmosphere make it an ideal destination for relaxation and immersion in nature.
Tobira Onsen Myojinkan Bath
Another exceptional retreat is Honjinhiranoya Kachoan, a peaceful accommodation nestled in Takayama’s old townscape that is only a one-minute walk from Takayama Jinya, a historic landmark. With extraordinary hospitality at the forefront, the establishment offers traditional tatami rooms, private hot spring baths, and exquisite kaiseki dinners featuring seasonal ingredients and premium Hida beef.
For travelers interested in a contemporary take on Japanese hospitality, Matsumoto Jujo in Asama Onsen seamlessly blends traditional ryokan elements with modern design. The establishment comprises two hotels (Matsumoto Honbako and Koyanagi) along with a bookstore, restaurant, brewery, and café, all housed in beautifully restored historic buildings. This innovative space offers guests a unique experience that combines the charm of traditional Japanese architecture with contemporary amenities.
In Takayama, TANIYA offers a unique experience in a renovated 100-year-old annex adjacent to the Kusakabe Family Residence, a nationally designated Important Cultural Property. Hosting only one party per night, this exclusive accommodation allows guests to fully immerse themselves in Hida Takayama's history and architectural heritage. The space showcases the finest local craftsmanship, featuring elements such as rough-hewn walls from the Meiji era (1868–1912), shoji screens with pristine white paper, and a hinoki cypress bath overlooking a serene courtyard.
TANIYA
Traditional Craft and Cuisine To Taste and Take Home
The Matsumoto-Takayama region is a culinary and artisanal treasure trove where local flavors and craftsmanship reflect deep-rooted traditions, sustainability, and meticulous artistry. From premium wagyu beef and handcrafted sake to traditional lacquerware and regional sweets, the specialties of this region offer visitors a true taste of its rich cultural heritage and dedication to excellence.
Sake brewing has thrived in the area’s historic breweries for centuries, benefiting from the region’s pristine mountain water and cold climate, both essential for high-quality fermentation. Aside from Sake Brewery Yoikana and Funasaka Sake Brewery mentioned above, another worth visiting is Daishinshu Brewery, which crafts sake using local rice and pure Northern Alps water, producing a clean, refined taste from snow melt.
Daishinshu Brewery
Beyond food, the region is also known for its exquisite Hida Shunkei lacquerware, a craft passed down for generations. This lacquerware is prized for its transparent varnish, which enhances the natural wood grain while protecting the surface with a durable, glossy finish. The intricate process involves applying multiple layers of lacquer, creating elegant trays, boxes, and tea ceremony utensils that are both functional and visually striking.
Every specialty in the Matsumoto-Takayama region tells a story of tradition, sustainability, and craftsmanship. From the rich, juicy flavors of Hida beef to the delicate balance of locally brewed sake, each experience is a multisensory journey that embodies the region’s nature, culture, and circular economy.
