Matsusaka

While there are no longer any buildings from the original castle, a beautiful set of ruins remain and function as a local park. The ruins are known for their well-preserved castle walls, and the grounds are particularly beautiful during spring and autumn. Cherry blossoms and wisteria bloom in the spring, and there are many colorful autumn trees in the fall. Historical monuments and markers dot the castle grounds, including several stone coffin lids used when materials were lacking during its construction. There's a bar/restaurant in the lower part of the main bailey, and an old-school coffee stand in the second bailey that are usually open whenever the owners feel like opening them (usually PM for the bar, morning/early afternoon for the coffee stand). Be extremely careful around the edges of the castle, as there are no guard rails near the steep castle walls.

A traditional street right outside the castle with preserved houses from the Edo period that were inhabited by samurai, and are now inhabited by their descendants. Be mindful with noise and pictures as people do live in the houses here. An open house is found towards the end of the road across the street from the castle where you can walk around one of the houses for free.

A museum dedicated to a renowned scholar who came from the city. While largely unknown outside Japan, it's still quite interesting to tour his house and take a glimpse into the daily life of someone living in 18th century Japan.

This museum is a bit difficult to access but is an interesting experience. You can learn about the exploration of Hokkaido by the man from Matsusaka who gave the island its name. It's also fun to try on traditional Ainu clothing.