Visit Matsumoto

Nawate-dori takes its name from the long, narrow embankment—as thin as a rope—nestled between the southern moat of Matsumoto Castle and the clear waters of the Metoba River. After Yotsubashira Shrine was established in 1879, the street developed as the shrine’s approach.

The symbol of this street is the frog. The Japanese tree frog, which once lived in the Metoba River, is a species that can only survive in clean rivers. The mascot characters, Metoba and Gouta, stand at the east and west entrances of the street, hoping that the Metoba River will once again become a clean river where Japanese tree frogs can thrive.

A variety of unique shops line the street, ranging from traditional fruit and hardware stores to taiyaki shops, bakeries, ice cream parlors, and general stores.

Since it is a pedestrian-only zone 365 days a year, small children, pets, and people in wheelchairs can all stroll around safely.

Why not take a stroll through the town, visiting Matsumoto Castle and Nakamachi Street?