For a Western-style hotel, this may be the best you can do in Matsumoto. But considering the spotty level of service and the overpriced food, I'd rather recommend a ryokan or other Japanese-style accommodation.
My impression of the rooms matches most of the other reviews here. The rooms are not cramped, but the beds are not really good quality and the decor and bathroom fixtures are past their prime (executive floor is not all that much better).
In town for business over 2 weeks, I had the chance to sample most of the restaurants at the hotel. The French and Japanese restaurants served good food, but at the former the portions were laughably small (even by Japanese standards) and at the latter the service was appallingly slow, even though there were only 2 other customers the entire time I was there. Don't bother with the buffet - you will feel ripped off.
If you don't speak Japanese, a word of warning. Most members of the front desk staff have memorized a few phrases of English, but that's about it. Don't be surprised if you're passed off to several different staff members before someone finally understands what you need help with.
In short, if you're in town to visit the castle or to explore the surrounding countryside (which is truly gorgeous), spring for the ryokan or pension. Or spend a few nights in Buena Vista's superior sister hotel, the Shoho (maybe 10 minutes' drive out of town). I think that would make for a more pleasant stay.
- Buena Vista Matsumoto
