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Formerly a school for the sons of samurai, the Matsushiro Bunbu Literary & Military Arts School is one of Matsushiro’s most interesting destinations and from Monday to Friday, offers visitors to ...

Dedicated to Zozan Sakuma (1811-1864) – an important figure in Japanese history who played an influential role in advocating for Japan to open-up to the world after a long period of isolation – Zozan...

One of Matsushiro’s best-preserved historic residences, Yamadera Jyozan was once home to a middle-ranking samurai family. The distinctive front gate – the longest in Matsushiro - and exterior walls a...

Once the rulers of Matsushiro and an important family in both regional and Japanese history, the Sanada clan are synonymous with the town and its samurai heritage. The large Sanada Treasures Museum h...

Chokoku-ji Temple is located away from the main area of attractions in Matsushiro but for those curious about Japanese temples, Chokoku-ji might be of interest. The main temple is quite distinctive, ...

A small and curious temple, Obakushu Zozan Emyozenji won’t hold your attention for long but is worth entering when passing-by, enroute and between the other attractions of  Matsushiro. Extensive...

Tucked-away behind residential buildings, the Takeyama Zuigo Inari Shrine is, in itself, not going to capture anyone’s attention for long. But for visitors passing by, enroute to the Yamadera Jyosan ...

Officially known as the 'Matsushiro Daihonei' or  ‘Matsushiro Underground Imperial Headquarters’, the Zozan Tunnels are a series of extensive subterranean passageways, bunkers and living areas e...

The most important of the five shrines making-up the Togakushi Shrine complex, the 'Okusha' or 'Upper Shrine' is accessed via a 2km trail through the forest. Along the way, visitors pass through the ...