A Day Trip to Matsusaka: Beef, History, and Hidden Gems
If you’re a foodie at heart or just love exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, Matsusaka should be on your radar. Known worldwide for its luxurious Matsusaka beef, this charming city is a delightful mix of history, quirky surprises, and, of course, unforgettable flavors.
We decided to make a day trip to Matsusaka from Osaka, and while the almost two-hour train ride each way seemed like a commitment, let me tell you—it was worth every second.
Getting There
The journey from Osaka to Matsusaka is straightforward and surprisingly relaxing. From Osaka-Uehommachi Station, take the Kintetsu Railway train, which connect directly to Matsusaka Station. The ride takes about 100 minutes, offering scenic views of both urban and rural Japan. Explore more when you book a JR Pass, and save more when you book with Klook. Don’t forget to use my code DOYZKIEKLOOK to save more. We used the JR West Kansai Sanin Area Wide Pass during this trip!
Make sure to check train schedules in advance and reserve your seats for the Limited Express trains to ensure a smooth journey.
Exploring Matsusaka: More Than Just Beef
Before diving fork-first into Matsusaka’s legendary beef, we wanted to take in the sights—and Matsusaka did not disappoint.
Castle Ruins: First stop, the Matsusaka Castle ruins. While the castle itself is no longer standing, the majestic stone walls remain, whispering stories of samurai and feudal lords. Walking through the grounds, surrounded by greenery and history, felt like stepping back in time
Suzunomori Park: Next to the ruins, across Sakanai River, is a quaint park that’s ideal for a leisurely stroll or a quick photo op. It’s a peaceful spot to pause and soak in the beauty of Matsusaka’s natural landscape
Manhole Card Hunting: One of the quirkiest and most fun things we did was collecting Matsusaka’s manhole cards. Yes, you read that right—manhole covers! Japan’s love for creativity extends even to its streets, and Matsusaka’s covers feature stunning designs that make for the coolest (and easiest-to-pack) souvenirs.
To get your hands on these unique cards, visit the Matsusaka Tourist Information Center. The staff there are super friendly and happy to help. They’ll provide the exclusive city card for free, and sometimes even share fun stories behind the designs. You can also buy Matsusaka beef and Matsusaka beef leather products here which make great souvenirs.
For an extra bonus, head to Matsusaka City Hall, where you can collect another exclusive manhole card! It’s a fun little scavenger hunt that adds a quirky touch to your Matsusaka adventure.
The Star of the Show: Matsusaka Beef
Now, let’s talk beef. If you’ve ever dreamed of eating wagyu that practically melts in your mouth, Matsusaka is the place to be. We headed to a cozy local spot that specializes in this famous delicacy, and honestly, it was a life-changing meal.
The marbling on the beef was pure perfection, and each bite was an explosion of flavor. Whether grilled or cooked shabu-shabu style, Matsusaka beef delivers a level of indulgence that lives up to its reputation. It’s not just a meal—it’s an experience.
Pro Tip: Avoid visiting on a Monday. Many shops and restaurants are closed, which might limit your options for food and exploration. Plan your trip on another day to enjoy everything Matsusaka has to offer.
Wrapping Up Our Matsusaka Adventure
With full stomachs and happy hearts, we boarded the train back to Osaka, already reminiscing about the day. Matsusaka is so much more than just its beef—it’s a city rich in history, brimming with charm, and sprinkled with delightful surprises.
If you’re in Osaka and looking for a unique day trip that blends history, fun, and food, Matsusaka is calling your name. Trust me, the journey—and the beef—are absolutely worth it!
So, what’s stopping you? Plan that trip, grab those manhole cards, and dig into the best beef of your life. Matsusaka is waiting!
