I find this historic 1887 lodging hits the sweet spot between old-world Japanese charm and modern comfort. During my stay, the spotless rooms and hearty breakfast buffet impressed me, while the location – just a quick 5-minute bus hop from the train station – makes sightseeing a breeze.
The traditional public bath and dual-cuisine restaurant (offering both French and Japanese dishes) add real value. Free WiFi and secure parking round out a solid amenity package.
A couple of minor drawbacks: Some rooms feel a bit dated despite recent updates, and the bus connection, while frequent, means you’re not quite walking distance from the station.
This place works especially well for travelers who appreciate historic properties with character and want a taste of classic Japanese hospitality without sacrificing modern conveniences. It’s particularly suited to culture buffs who plan to explore Matsumoto Castle and the old town, as well as couples seeking a romantic atmosphere with traditional touches.
Pro tip: Request a room on the upper floors – they tend to be quieter and some offer nice city views.
This exceptional hotel appears in our top 26 hotel picks in Matsumoto.
Good To Know
- Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu is the oldest hotel in Matsumoto, established in 1887 and renovated in 2016 with classic furnishings.
- The hotel enjoys a convenient 5-minute bus ride from JR Matsumoto Station and is highly rated by guests for its location.
- Offering a range of room types, including Japanese-style rooms with comfortable futons, the hotel caters to different traveler preferences and budgets.
- Guests praise the hotel’s amenities, including a public bath with a traditional Japanese-style hot spring, free WiFi, and on-site dining options.
- The hotel has an overall rating of 8.4 from 1,956 guests, with high praise for its spacious rooms, cleanliness, excellent breakfast, and helpful staff.
Hotel Overview and Location
Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu, established in 1887, is Matsumoto’s oldest hotel.
It underwent renovations in April 2016, featuring classic furnishings.
Located at Ote 4-8-9, Matsumoto, Nagano, it’s a 5-minute bus ride from JR Matsumoto Station and a short walk from Matsumoto Castle and Nawate Street.
Guests rated the location highly at 8.7, praising its convenience and proximity to local attractions.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
Rated 8.4 by 1,956 guests, the hotel received positive feedback for its spacious rooms, cleanliness, and excellent breakfast. Key highlights included the quality of the food, the onsen experience, and the helpfulness of the staff, who scored 9.1. Guests appreciated the Japanese-style rooms and the comfortable futons.
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Rooms | 8.5 |
| Cleanliness | 8.7 |
| Breakfast | 8.9 |
| Staff | 9.1 |
Amenities and Services
The hotel offers a range of amenities to cater to guests’ needs.
Visitors can enjoy free WiFi throughout the property and take advantage of the private parking available on site.
The hotel features a restaurant that serves both French and Japanese cuisine, ensuring a diverse dining experience.
Guests can relax in the public bath and make use of additional services like the 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, laundry facilities, and bicycle rentals.
The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, heating, a fridge, and a hairdryer, providing a comfortable stay.
Whether traveling for business or leisure, Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu offers a well-rounded set of amenities to meet the needs of its guests.
Accommodation Options
Guests can choose from a variety of accommodation options at Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu. The hotel provides single rooms, standard twin rooms, deluxe suites, and Japanese-style rooms.
Most rooms are non-smoking, and amenities vary by room type, with options for futon beds and twin beds available. Guests can select rooms in either the main building or the annex.
Room types and features cater to different traveler preferences and budgets, allowing visitors to find the perfect fit for their stay at this historic hotel.
House Rules and Policies
Check-in at Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu is available from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and guests must check out between 6:00 AM and 10:00 AM.
Children of all ages are welcome, but those 6 and older are charged as adults.
Pets aren’t permitted on the premises.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type, and shuttle service from Matsumoto Station is available upon advance reservation.
The hotel’s policies are designed to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay for all guests.
Onsen Experience
One of the highlights of a stay at Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu is its public bath, or onsen. Guests can enjoy the traditional Japanese-style hot spring experience in the hotel’s spacious, well-maintained onsen.
The onsen features both indoor and outdoor bathing areas, allowing visitors to soak in the natural hot spring waters while taking in views of the surrounding landscape. The onsen is open from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM daily, providing ample time for guests to unwind and rejuvenate after a day of exploring Matsumoto.
The onsen experience is a beloved part of the Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu stay, with guests frequently praising the facility’s cleanliness and relaxing atmosphere.
French and Japanese Cuisine
The hotel’s restaurant serves a diverse array of French and Japanese cuisine, catering to a range of culinary preferences.
Guests can enjoy:
- Expertly prepared traditional Japanese dishes, including sushi, sashimi, and shabu-shabu
- Delectable French entrees, such as coq au vin and beef bourguignon
- A selection of fusion plates that blend Japanese and French flavors
- A comprehensive breakfast buffet featuring both Western and Japanese options
The restaurant’s skilled chefs use high-quality, locally sourced ingredients to create a dining experience that complements the hotel’s historic ambiance.
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours, to ensure availability.
Helpful Staff and Hospitality
As per your’ feedback, the staff at Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu consistently demonstrated a high level of helpfulness and hospitality.
They scored an impressive 9.1 rating from guests, who appreciated the staff’s attentiveness and eagerness to assist.
Whether it was providing recommendations for local attractions, promptly addressing any concerns, or going the extra mile to make guests feel welcomed, the staff’s excellent service contributed greatly to the overall positive experience.
Guests highlighted the staff’s fluency in English and their ability to accommodate various requests, making the hotel an ideal choice for international travelers.
The staff’s dedication to hospitality was a key factor in the hotel’s high rating and positive reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Check-In and Check-Out Times for the Hotel?
The check-in time is from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and the check-out time is from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
Is There a Fitness Center or Gym Available for Guests?
The hotel does not have a fitness center or gym on-site. Guests looking to exercise during their stay will need to explore other local options or find alternative ways to stay active during their visit.
Does the Hotel Offer Any Special Packages or Deals?
The hotel doesn’t mention any special packages or deals on its website. However, guests may want to check for any limited-time promotions or discounted rates when booking directly with the hotel.
Can Guests Request Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
Guests can request early check-in or late check-out, though fees may apply. The hotel’s standard check-in is from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and check-out is from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Early or late requests are subject to availability and any applicable charges.
Is There a Shuttle Service to Nearby Tourist Attractions?
The hotel provides a shuttle service, but only to the nearby JR Matsumoto Station. They don’t offer shuttle services to other local tourist attractions. Guests can inquire about the shuttle at the hotel’s 24-hour front desk.
The Sum Up
The Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu offers an exceptional experience in the heart of Matsumoto. Boasting a prime location, spacious rooms, and outstanding amenities, this historic hotel blends classic charm with modern comforts. Guests rave about the exceptional cleanliness, delicious breakfast, and warm hospitality, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a traditional Japanese stay or a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western influences.