The town's famous for a black castle that towers over the city. It's home to a museum that has a collection of arms dating back through the centuries. Unfortunately, there's no English translation of the information available. Close by is a second museum, dedicated to local and regional history.
The town's streets are lined with attractive boutiques, bars and restaurants. The old quarter was smaller than I expected, but fun all the same.
You can reach local winter sports resorts from Matsumoto - the perfect opportunity to go hiking in the surrounding mountains.
At the end of the day, during both summer and winter, you can unwind in one the of region's many onsen. Some have open air baths and soaking in their steaming hot water, surrounded by snow, is a real treat.