This area spreads out directly to the south and east of downtown Matsumoto. It is home to historic destinations such as the impeccably preserved Baba Family Residence—a traditional farmhouse from the Edo Period—and the ancient Mt. Kobo Tomb, whose cherry tree grove paints the entire hill in its beautiful pink blossoms in the spring. In Gakenoyu Hot Springs, you can enjoy more secluded hot spring ryokan with access to hiking trails in the eastern mountains. The hilly farmlands that are nestled in the valleys of this area make for some great cycling as well.