Matsumoto, located in Nagano Prefecture, is a charming city known for its rich history, stunning natural surroundings, and cultural significance. At its heart lies Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful and well-preserved original castles, often referred to as the “Crow Castle” for its striking black exterior. The castle’s impressive structure and views of the surrounding Japanese Alps make it a must-visit destination. Matsumoto also serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures, with easy access to the Northern Alps, perfect for hiking, skiing, and enjoying nature year-round. The city itself boasts a relaxed atmosphere, with historical streets like Nakamachi and Nawate-dori lined with traditional buildings, local shops, and charming cafes. Known for its clean mountain air, fresh soba noodles, and vibrant art scene, Matsumoto is a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, offering visitors a unique and peaceful experience in central Japan.
Here are some of the photos I captured during my visits. Enjoy your virtual tour!
HDR photography, when applied sparingly, is a fantastic way to bring out details in scenes with extreme highlights and shadows. Shooting in RAW simplifies this process—you can boost the shadows and tone down the highlights directly in post-processing without resorting to multiple exposures. With a capable camera, the dynamic range is often sufficient to capture…