Visit Mastumoto

Where Books and Hot Springs Gently Unravel the Mind

Matsumoto Honbako, a book-themed hotel within Matsumoto Jujo, rests quietly in the historic Asama Onsen district, a hot spring area renowned for over 1,300 years. This retreat is built around books, hot springs, and the culinary traditions of Shinshu (present-day Nagano). 

Each room features an open-air natural spring bath, offering a luxurious moment embraced by refined design and soothing waters. On the first floor, a bookstore housing approximately 10,000 volumes provides a tranquil space for guests to immerse themselves in the worlds of philosophy and art.

The cuisine highlights regional bounty, such as free-range pork and river fish, served in a course that delicately infuses the essence of fermentation. Books, baths, and food harmonize with one another, creating a singular experience where contemplation meets comfort in a stay like no other.

Official website: https://matsumotojujo.com/

Address: 3-15-17 Asama Onsen, Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture (Check-in)

Embraced by the Forest, Breathe in the Serenity

At an elevation of roughly 1,050 meters, Tobira Onsen Myojinkan —a long-established ryokan where you can feel the breath of the woods—sits quietly in the heart of an ancient forest. In its signature standing bath Setsugetsuka, guests can gaze up at the surrounding trees while immersed in warm waters. In the open-air bath Hakuryu, a clear, gentle breeze softly brushes the cheeks. 

Throughout the inn, thoughtful details invite you to surrender to the stillness of nature and find calm within. Over 90 years of tradition blend seamlessly with a contemporary wellness philosophy, enveloping every visitor in a sense of calm.

The cuisine features seasonal vegetables and other local ingredients from Matsumoto, offering modern interpretations of traditional Japanese dishes, including house-made soups. Each flavor conveys the memory of the land and the quiet strength of nature. A day spent in the forest brings gentle balance to both body and mind.

Official website: https://www.tobira-group.com/myojinkan/

Address: 8967 Iriyamabe, Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture

A Stay That Feels Like Living in Satoyama

Nestled quietly in the rural landscape of Matsumoto, Satoyama Villa HONJIN is a historic residence once used to welcome and host important guests. With over a century of history, it is cherished as a “gift from the past.” Renovations have retained its wooden warmth and historical character while also providing modern comfort. Stepping inside feels like opening a door to history.

The Satoyama Villa series also includes Satoyama villa DEN, a private villa surrounded by countryside views. Each property weaves the culture of the satoyama, offering an experience removed from the bustle of daily life and a stay of refined comfort—one of the series’ greatest charms.

Official website: https://shigahonjin.jp/

Address: 246 Hofukuji-machi, Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture

Become One with Nature at a Hot Spring Resort Overlooking the Azusa River

Located within a national park at roughly 1,500 meters above sea level, Kamikochi Lemeiesta Hotel rests beside the clear-flowing Azusa River. The hotel uses 100% natural hot spring water from its private source, drawn from about 150 meters underground, available in every guest room and bath. 

Following a 2024 renovation, the guest rooms and dining area welcome travelers with panoramic views of the Azusa River, Mt. Kasumizawa, and Mt. Roppyaku, framed by five-meter-wide windows.

Dinner features French cuisine crafted with the delicate flavors of Shinshu’s seasonal ingredients, paired beautifully with wine. Under Kamikochi’s quiet sky, beneath a canopy of stars, enjoy a special stay that feels as though you’ve become one with the mountains.

Official website: https://www.lemeiesta.com/

Address: 4469-1 Azumi-Kamikochi, Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture

A Mountain Hotel Steeped in Tradition at the Foot of Kappa Bridge

Set at the foot of Kamikochi’s iconic Kappa Bridge (Kappabashi), Gosenjaku Hotel Kamikochi boasts a truly unmatched location with panoramic views of the Hotaka Mountain Range and the clear-flowing Azusa River. It is also an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area, including Taisho Pond and Myojin Pond.

Since its founding, the hotel has upheld a deep commitment to cuisine. Its creative French dining, Gosenjaku Cuisine, highlights the bounty of the seasons and leaves a vivid impression of Kamikochi. 

Inside, the hotel features traditional Matsumoto folk art furniture—handcrafted pieces made with enduring skill—along with works by poets and painters connected to the mountains. A highlight is the ink painting of the Hotaka Mountain Range by artist Eiichiro Tachikawa.

Enjoy a special moment in a refined space where natural beauty and art exist in perfect harmony.

Official website: https://www.gosenjaku.co.jp/

Address: 4468 Azumi-Kamikochi, Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture

Each accommodation in Matsumoto is deeply connected to the spirit of the land. Surrounded by books, embraced by the forest, or in quiet dialogue with the mountains—every place offers its own sense of stillness and warmth. Why not begin your next journey by choosing one of these to stay at? In Matsumoto, these places will help you rediscover the true essence of travel.