The newly inaugurated Matsumoto City Museum celebrates the city’s feudal heritage along with the historical and cultural features that make Matsumoto one of the most popular destinations in Central Japan. Located on the street leading to the castle, it is the city’s newest museum and one that tells the story of Matsumoto itself along that of the surrounding region.
'Temari' – Traditional Japanese Toy & Symbol of Matsumoto City
The Museum’s Permanent Collection
The museum’s permanent exhibition focuses on the castle and how the city grew around it. A highlight of that exhibition is a vast model depicting Matsumoto as it was during its feudal past along with artefacts from that period.
A 1:300 scale, 8.6m long and 5.2m wide model
In addition, other exhibits reflect Matsumoto’s rich culture including its celebrated ‘temari’ – hand embroidered balls that are synonymous with the city. The surrounding region including the beautiful alpine valley of Kamikochi, part of the wider Chubu Sangaku National Park, is also a notable feature of the exhibition.
Different Stories Told Through Special Exhibitions
Matsumoto City Museum has a dedicated area for special exhibitions including the current commemoration of the ‘Grand Matsumoto Exposition’, held in 1873. The latter 19th century was a time of change in Japan as it opened to the world following its long isolation, and the Matsumoto Exposition was one of several events organized throughout Japan to rival the great expos of Europe – a fascinating insight into a period of Japanese history that many if not most international visitors aren’t familiar with.
'Grand Matsumoto Exposition' - Special Exhibition from October 7th to December 10th
The second feature of the current special exhibition tells the story of local development through the companies that have shaped the city. The renowned Fujigen – a musical instrument manufacturer particularly famous for its guitars – is one such company along with Yanagisawa Ringyo – a contemporary company working to preserve the surrounding environment through its production of organic ‘sake’ and many community local events.
Yanagisawa Ringyo is working to preserve the surrounding environment
Visit the Museum on a Guided Tour
Though there is English information accompanying some displays, it is not consistent across the museum. As such, we are happy to offer tours to the museum by itself or in combination with other city attractions including Matsumoto Castle – a great way to get the most out of your visit and deepen your understanding of our history and culture.
Our Customizable Private Tour is crafted to suit your interests and travel itinerary with the new museum sure to be a popular feature for many visitors. We’re here to help you discover Matsumoto, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch and see what we can do for you!
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