Matsumoto

Matsumoto is deservedly famous for its castle, with its rather cunning structural design which mean that in the event of it catching fire, only alternate storeys would collapse, leaving the overall castle intact; and for the romantically inclined, it has a "moon viewing platform". To me this combination of military functionalism and ethereal, Zen aesthetics sums up the Japanese paradox.

Other than the castle, a charming local architectural style, the usual amazing food, but not a great deal else. However, it is a good base for exploring the nearby mountain villages.

And of course, the inevitable, cute kids!