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Matsumoto

After leaving Tokyo, the first place we went to visit was Matsumoto. With population of only around 200,000 people, it is significantly smaller than Tokyo and had a totally different feel.

Matsumoto is quite famous for its castle, one of the best preserved examples around Japan. Due to its black colour and imposing nature, it is sometimes known as the Crow castle. It was first built in 1594, though obviously was modified and restored since. Beautiful cherry blossoms and cool local museum too.





We also went to see the old shopping street, known as Frog street. There used to be many actual frogs, but they stopped coming after a severe flood one year. The tradition is commemorated by lots of frog statues.



Finally, our time in Matsumoto was capped off by staying at a traditional Japanese hot springs spa, a ryokan. Food was amazing, and we really loved the minimalist beauty of the space we were staying at.


Tokyo was amazing, and difficult to see how it could have been topped... however we are glad to report  that rest of Japan seems to have as much to offer! Can’t wait to see more. Next stop: Kyoto.

Comments

Zen Musings said…
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April 9, 2019 at 10:40 AM
Zen Musings said…
Thanks for the write up, Michele and Roman. Amazing. This is the country that thought me the martial arts skills of Aikido, Goju- Ryu, Kyokushin-Kai, Shotokan, Wado-Ryu, Also did Shorin-Ryu/ Isshin-Ryu - all to black belt stage. Hope you enjoy soaking in the culture and life of this wonderful country. And of course the cuisine:-)
Much love and big hugs.
D
April 9, 2019 at 10:45 AM
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