Matsumoto is located in the former Shinano Province and was the provincial capital from the Heian period onwards.

The area developed as the castle town of Matsumoto Domain under the Tokugawa shogunate of the Edo period.

[4] Per Japanese census data,[10] the population of Matsumoto has recently plateaued after a long period of growth.

Matsumoto has a mayor-council form of government with a directly elected mayor and a unicameral city legislature of 31 members.

Matsumoto is a regional commercial center and noted for traditional woodworking and silk spinning, electronics and its dairy industry.

Seasonal tourism to the surrounding mountains and onsen hot spring resorts is also an important source of local income.

According to Philippe Mesmer of Le Monde, Kaichi "was one of the first modern schools built in Japan.

[12] Matsumoto is attractive to travelers not only because of its traditional culture but also its moderate climate and local products.

League of football with its local club, Matsumoto Yamaga FC based at the Alwin Stadium in Kambayashi.