Matsumoto

Origin & History

Matsumoto means 'base of the pine tree' (松本) and is a topographic surname for families living near prominent pine trees, which were sacred and often marked special locations in Japanese culture. The name became associated with the city of Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture, where the famous Matsumoto Castle stands. The surname is most common in Nagano, Osaka, and Hyogo prefectures.