If you're in Nagano and looking for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination, I highly recommend Matsushiro. Nestled in the foothills of Nagano, this former castle town—now part of the city—offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s samurai past. Once the stronghold of the Sanada clan, Matsushiro is home to well-preserved samurai residences, a scenic castle park, and more. I spent a morning exploring Matsushiro and am excited to share in this article my experience and the itinerary I followed.