Not way back, I lastly wrote an article a couple of widespread query I obtain from readers. Particularly, about which of two close by cities within the Japanese Alps makes for the very best base, not to mention the very best place to discover by itself deserves.
In writing that article (as I do every time I publish “comparability” items), I made compelling circumstances for each of the cities named. On the finish, I supplied readers with sufficient info to make the choice on their very own, in line with their very own journey wants and preferences.
Right now, I’m again to do the identical with one other pair. Particularly, is Takayama or Matsumoto a greater base for exploring the Japanese Alps?
Why You Ought to Go to Each of These Cities (Even when You Don’t Sleep There)
As was the case with the town I referenced within the intro to this piece (Nagano), evaluating Takayama vs Matsumoto is one thing of a crapshoot: Each of those locations are imminently price visiting. Though I’ll lay out a number of the finest sights and experiences in every beneath, you may simply spend a complete day within the metropolis middle of both metropolis and never really feel bored (though it’s possible you’ll want you’d slept there).
The fact is that whereas these two cities are related, they signify totally different aspects of the Japanese Alps—one can’t substitute the opposite instantly. It might be that you simply go to one in your subsequent journey to Japan, and the opposite on a future journey. This was how I first got here to know them: I stayed in Matsumoto the primary time I visited Japan (in April 2014) and visited Takayama for the primary time in November 2015.
Matsumoto
Methods to Examine Takayama with Matsumoto
Getting there and round
Matsumoto is way simpler to entry from Tokyo than Takayama is—common Azusa Restricted Categorical trains depart Shinjuku Station, taking about 90 minutes en route. Takayama, in contrast, is usually simply accessible from Nagoya, through the Hida Restricted Categorical. Alpico buses, which journey a number of instances per day, join the 2 cities over the Japanese Alps.
Issues to do
Evaluating Takayama and Matsumoto on this entrance, the distinction is stark. Inside Matsumoto’s metropolis middle, the one main factor to do is go to Matsumoto Citadel. Conversely, in Takayama, you have got the Sanmachi Suji Previous Road and Previous Temple Path, every of which is replete with treasures.
TIP: One other wonderful factor to do in Takayama? Are available in both April or October for the twice-annual Takayama Matsuri, certainly one of Japan’s most gratifying festivals.
Inns and eating places
I’d given Takayama a slight edge over Matsumoto for accommodations—at the least of their metropolis facilities. Boutique accommodations like Resort Wooden and the ryokan Oyado Koto no Yume are superior to Matsumoto accommodations similar to Tabino Resort Lit. On the meals entrance, Takayama’s Hida beef “sushi” are extra distinctive and distinctive than something in Matsumoto.
Day journeys
To me, whether or not you select Matsumoto or Takayama, that is the place each cities actually shine. From Matsumoto, hike alongside the Nakasendo Manner or the Senjojiki Cirque within the Chuo Alps, or see snow monkeys in Jigokudani; from Takayama, Gassho farmhouse villages like Shirakawa-go are the highest day journey. Each cities are near beautiful Kamikochi.
Crowds
Except for the fortress space, Matsumoto isn’t particularly crowded; it’s extra of a base than a vacation spot in and of itself. Most of Takayama’s outdated city is fairly busy, which is smart. Along with all of the individuals who keep right here, heaps come on day journeys from Nagoya, Toyama, Kanazawa and even Matsumoto.
Takayama
Different Locations to Go to within the Japanese Alps
The Japanese Alps are some of the numerous and attention-grabbing locations in Japan. Past Matsumoto and Takayama and the varied day journeys you may take from them, there’s just about no restrict to the exploring that you are able to do right here. For instance, the fortress city of Gujo-hachiman is more and more common, and perhaps quickly be on the extent of main cities within the Alps (assuming they’ll construct extra accommodations there).
Not surprisingly, the Japanese Alps are additionally wonderful for decent spring lovers. From onsen accommodations within the cities to cities like Hirayu Onsen (which is midway between the 2) and Gero (which is south of Takayama), you’re by no means removed from a effervescent pool of mineral-rich water if you journey within the Japanese Alps.
Different FAQ About Matsumoto and Takayama
Which is healthier, Takayama or Matsumoto?
Matsumoto makes a handy base for sightseeing within the Japanese Alps and is dwelling to Matsumoto Citadel, which is certainly one of Japan’s most essential castles. However, Takayama’s outdated city is arguably extra spectacular as a self-contained vacation spot than Matsumoto is as a complete.
What to see between Matsumoto and Takayama?
In your means between Matsumoto and Takayama, I like to recommend stopping within the city of Hirayu Onsen. Soak in a scorching spring at one of many day spas right here, or proceed by bus into the Kamikochi Valley. Both means, this a part of the Japanese Alps is completely fascinating.
Is it price going to Matsumoto Citadel?
Matsumoto Citadel is certainly one of simply 12 remaining unique castles in Japan—it’s completely price visiting. It’s distinctive for its black exterior, which has led to it being nicknamed “crow fortress” by Japanese folks. I particularly love seeing it amid spring’s sakura and the colours of autumn!
The Backside Line
Whether or not you select Takayama or Matsumoto, exploring the Japanese Alps is an absolute pleasure. That is true each when it comes to the majestic surroundings, in addition to the sheer number of locations inside day journey distance of main cities. Whereas the particular choices for exploration will differ, relying upon whether or not you choose Matsumoto or Takayama (or Nagano, for that matter) as your base, this is part of Japan I believe you’ll come again to repeatedly. Need assistance integrating the Alps into your subsequent journey to Japan, or maybe even deciding whether or not they need to be a part of it in any respect? Fee a customized Japan itinerary at the moment, and leverage my decade-plus of expertise and experience.