Visit Matsumoto

Nawate Street once lay between the southern outer moat of Matsumoto Castle and the clear stream of the Metoba River; its name comes from the thin and long rope-like (""nawa"") riverbank (“dote”). Since the construction of Yohashira Shrine in 1879, it has developed as the approach to the shrine.

Frogs are the symbol of this street. Kajika frogs, which once lived in the Metoba River, can only survive in clean rivers. Nawate’s mascot characters Metoba and Gota represent the wish for the Metoba River to once again become clean enough for kajika frogs to live there, and stand at the eastern and western entrances to the street.

You’ll find rows of individual shops here, from old-fashioned hardware stores and florists to fashionable general goods stores, which have recently increased in number.

As this street is a year-round pedestrian zone, small children, pets, and even wheelchair-users can explore with peace of mind.

Why not visit Nawate together with Matsumoto Castle and Nakamachi Street?

True to its name, this shrine was established to "pacify" the turbulent flow of the Nuregawa River, which once flooded repeatedly. During the Edo period, Matsumoto Castle lord Ishikawa Kazumasa undertook major construction to redirect the river's course to its present route, protecting the castle town from flooding. It is said the shrine was founded at that time as the town's guardian deity.Here, you can receive

divine blessings for protection against floods and disasters, warding off misfortune, and all water-related wishes. Additionally, the shrine grants blessings for encounters, matchmaking, childbirth, safe delivery, and marital harmony. The "Yotsubashira Shrine" and "Shizuka Shrine," standing along the Noto River, are representative power spots of Matsumoto Castle town. Visiting both shrines together will likely bring you even greater divine blessings and protection.

East of Matsumoto Castle, where the elegant restaurant "Tai-man" once bustled with connoisseurs, pure water still springs forth. Known as "Tai-man's Well," after the restaurant closed, it was transformed into a small park cherished by locals, continuing to quench people's thirst to this day.

Its mellow, deeply flavorful water quality has garnered many hidden fans. Take a sip of this blessed water while letting your thoughts wander to the castle town's splendid history. It's a special spot where you can enjoy such a luxurious break.

The name "Shimizu" for this area is said to derive from the spring water here, making it a sacred water site cherished since ancient times. During the Heian period, a road leading to government offices is believed to have passed nearby, making this a precious watering place for travelers and officials to quench their thirst.

Within the shrine grounds stands a majestic zelkova tree, boasting a 300-year history and a height of 25 meters. Designated as a Special Natural Monument by the city, it has stood watch over the people alongside the spring water, serving both as the shrine's sacred tree and as a symbol of the community. Under the shade of this ancient tree, which evokes the passage of time, listening to the pure sound of the water brings a moment of profound peace.

In the castle town of Matsumoto, Zenya Shuzo continues its traditional sake brewing to this day. Before its brewery stands the gushing "Meguroba Spring." This brewery meticulously crafts its sake using pure well water discovered and dug by the company itself. Sake and amazake

brewed with this renowned water are celebrated for their mellow mouthfeel and the pronounced umami of the rice.Experience the ultimate cup born from Matsumoto's rich water culture. Whether as a souvenir or a treat for yourself, we invite you to savor it.