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Ote, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture
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A Retro Riverside Frog Street
Nawate-dori is a nostalgic pedestrian street running alongside the Metoba River in central Matsumoto, just a short walk from Matsumoto Castle. Lined with small shops, antique stores, snack stands and old-fashioned storefronts, it keeps the atmosphere of a Showa-era market town. The street is affectionately known as 'Frog Street' (Kaeru-machi): the once-clean Metoba River was full of singing frogs, and today frog statues and motifs appear throughout as a symbol of bringing visitors and fortune 'back' (a pun on 'kaeru'). It is a favourite spot for a relaxed stroll, street food, and souvenir hunting.
History & Culture
A Riverside Market Lane
The lane developed along the Metoba River near the approach to Matsumoto Castle, growing into a lively market street where merchants and townsfolk gathered—an everyday counterpoint to the castle town's formal districts.
The 'Frog Street' Revival
As the Metoba River grew polluted and the singing frogs vanished, local shopkeepers adopted the frog as a mascot—wishing the river, and lively crowds, would 'come back.' Frog statues and the playful retro townscape made Nawate-dori one of Matsumoto's most beloved strolling streets.
Ote, Matsumoto City, Nagano 390-0874
- Walk from Matsumoto Stn (JR)
Varies by shop
Free
Hours and fees are a guide and may change — please check official information before your visit.
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