What better way to appreciate the history of Matsumoto than to stay in its oldest hotel? The Kagetsu dates back to 1887, though a recent renovation has brushed off the cobwebs and smartened up the furnishings.  None of the old-world charm has been lost though, and the Kagetsu common areas feel like a museum to Mingei (Japanese folk art) housed in a 1920’s European hotel.

The classic Western rooms have an old-Manhattan feel to them – simple decoration and furniture, though perhaps a little plain and dated for some tastes.  There are also Japanese style rooms however, with plenty of space and suitable for families who would like to experience sleeping on rolled-out futon beds.  Rooms within the annex – the older building – can be slightly odd shapes, with exposed beams and the occasional sloping roof.  This is to be expected from a historical building, of course, and gives particular these rooms a ‘country B&B’ feel.

Minutes away from the imposing Matsumoto Castle, the joys of Nawate Street shopping, and the colourful City Art Museum, the Kagetsu is an ideal place to spend a night or two when passing through this charming city.