Nostalgic Matsumoto: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation in a Historic Castle Town (March 26th – 31st)
Matsumoto, a flourishing castle town built around the majestic Matsumoto Castle, has recently seen an influx of new residents. These newcomers are drawn by the allure of the Northern Alps and the charm of the town’s historical streets. With a tea culture deeply rooted in ancient traditions, Matsumoto boasts a custom of enjoying tea time accompanied by sweets, reflected in the town’s numerous Japanese and Western confectionery shops. This unique blend of long-established stores, some dating back to the Meiji era, and newer cafes established by those captivated by Matsumoto’s charm, creates an atmosphere where one can experience both the retro and the new – a defining characteristic of this vibrant town.
This curated event, "Nostalgic Matsumoto," showcases a selection of sweets and other items chosen by Erina Koizumi, known as matsumoto_cafe, an influencer who relocated to Matsumoto and actively promotes the town’s culinary delights. Visitors are invited to experience the charm of Matsumoto through its beloved cafes and sweets, all conveniently available at the venue.
A Confluence of Coffee Culture
The event features a diverse lineup of coffee establishments, highlighting Matsumoto’s rich coffee culture. Offerings range from the signature Mocha Cream Au Lait from "Coffee Aesthetics Abe," a cornerstone of Matsumoto’s coffee scene, to newer establishments like "Coffee Tea Room Kamenoya" and "High-Five COFFEE STAND," where one can savor the taste of specialty roasted coffee.
Sweet Indulgences: A Showcase of Local Flavors
A tempting array of sweets will also be available, showcasing the region’s culinary heritage. The selection includes collaborative products featuring the artwork of Chihiro Iwasaki, a renowned picture book author associated with Shinshu, from the long-established "Kaikundo Confectionery," a favorite among many. Other highlights include the award-winning "Raisin Cookies" from "Fujimura Confectionery," and the naturally-inspired sweets from "sweets&story IKUE," which draws from the bounty of Shinshu, Matsumoto’s natural environment. Additionally, "pâtisserie COULEUR" will present parfaits adorned with ingredients sourced from the Shinshu region.
Event Details:
- Period: March 26th (Wednesday) – March 31st (Monday), 2025
- Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Venue: Hanshin Umeda Main Store, 1st Floor Food Festival Terrace (1-13-13 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka)
- Admission: Free
- Website: Event Information
What is Matsumoto?
Matsumoto is a name associated with a strong cultural heritage in Japanese sweets and culinary arts. Known for its craftsmanship and dedication to traditional techniques, Matsumoto is recognized for producing high-quality confections that reflect Japan’s culinary history. Located in Osaka, Matsumoto offers a mix of traditional and modern sweets, appealing to both locals and tourists seeking an authentic taste of Japan.
At Hanshin Umeda, Matsumoto has established itself as a place where tradition meets modernity. The establishment is known for its wagashi—traditional Japanese sweets that are visually appealing and flavorful. Each piece is crafted with care, reflecting the seasonal beauty and cultural significance of wagashi.
In addition to sweets, Matsumoto embraces contemporary coffee culture, offering selections that complement the flavors of the sweets. This combination enhances the overall experience, whether you’re enjoying a classic matcha mochi or trying innovative fusion desserts. Matsumoto at Hanshin Umeda provides an exploration of Japan’s culinary artistry, where tradition and modernity coexist.
