Matsumoto in September

Spring brings cherry blossoms to the castle grounds in late April. The pink petals against the black castle walls create Instagram gold, but you'll share the view with busloads of tourists. Book accommodations months ahead for this period. Summer offers the best hiking weather in the surrounding Alps. July and August see daily highs around 28°C in the city, perfect for exploring on foot. This is peak season for mountain activities — Kamikochi hiking trails stay packed, but the alpine scenery justifies the crowds. Autumn steals the show. October transforms the Japanese Alps into a patchwork of reds and golds, while the city stays comfortably cool. The autumn leaves peak around mid-October, making this the most popular (and expensive) time to visit. Winter brings snow to the mountains but leaves the city relatively clear. Hotel rates drop significantly, and you'll have the castle mostly to yourself. Just bundle up — January temperatures hover around freezing.