Discover a real feudal era castle and the historical streets! Matsumoto is a city with deep-rooted living traditions and proud people who retain an ancestral way of life that we have to honor and respect! Get an introduction into Matsumoto’s past and present during a 3 hour half-day walking tour. Make your stay in Matsumoto the most unique and enjoyable experience possible! Your guide will help you enjoying the best of the city. Our half-day Matsumoto Castle Town Walking Tour is designed to reveal the living traditions of our city by following a different route to and from the castle, and in doing so, bring the history and tradition of the famous castle town to life! Take more than just a tour, discover ancient history and wisdom, have a unique and enlightening experience! Get a glimpse of all there is to explore in Matsumoto City!

Your chance to become a Samurai while visiting Matsumoto Castle! What better place to have your samurai experience than in a city with an authentic castle from the feudal era? First take a tour of Matsumoto Castle designated a “National Treasure” of Japan due to its well-preserved original structure! During the tour, you will learn about the Matsumoto Samurai lords, the history of Matsumoto City and even some of the castle's defensive strategies. Then experience a live hands-on Samurai Sword Fighting activity! A Master Samurai will teach you some of these ancient fighting techniques. You can choose your own colors for your outfit which consists of a yukata (light kimono), hakama (wide-leg pants), and obi (belt). You can even select your swords! The stage and the atmosphere of the place is bound to take you on a realistic journey back in time. The perfect setting for a complete immersion into this slice of Japanese history!

100% hands-on from start to finish, experience a uniquely authentic Japanese Cuisine for yourself! Matsumoto is famous for the quality of its Soba (buckwheat flour noodles) and its historic feudal castle! First take a tour of Matsumoto Castle designated a “National Treasure” of Japan due to its well-preserved original structure. Then sample this traditional Japanese dish and even have a go at preparing it yourself! The soba-making workshop is an opportunity to get more than just the literal bite of this tradition. Step into the shoes of an apprentice and learn from an experienced soba master! Discover all the basics and learn how to use authentic soba-making tools. The activity is divided into two stages and it’s completely hands-on from start to finish. The best part is you get to eat your own noodles at the end! This is an exciting and enriching experience you can share with family and friends, and an unforgettable way to discover a unique aspect of Japanese cuisine!

The venue is an old private house in a wonderful location in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, with Matsumoto Castle in front of it. No matter what time of year you visit, you can experience the Japanese art of calligraphy while viewing the beautiful Japanese garden. A master calligrapher will carefully teach you how to use the tools and manners, so that even beginners can enjoy writing. You can write your favorite characters on colored paper to create a beautiful, one-of-a-kind work of art. It is a great way to display them at home as a memento of your trip or as a souvenir.

Defined by its mountains and natural landscapes, Central Japan is the literal heartland of this beautiful country and a road less travelled by many international visitors. This engaging one-day tour takes you to Matsumoto Castle - one of the few remaining original castles in Japan and a registered National Treasure - before heading high into the grandeur of the North Alps and onto the protected alpine oasis of Kamikochi. Led by a locally-based guide and including lunch and direct transport to and from Kamikochi, this tour captures the essence of Central Japan by combining two of its most iconic destinations.

Embark on a captivating day of exploration through the enchanting city of Matsumoto, Japan! From the grandeur of Matsumoto Castle to the tranquility of Matsumoto-jinja Shrine, immerse yourself in history, culture, and natural beauty. End your adventure with a panoramic view from Matsumoto City Hall and some quirky fun at Nawate Shopping Street. Unleash your inner explorer and discover the heart of Matsumoto on this foot-powered escapade! Solve puzzles, explore the city, and find hidden gems at your own pace. Try a new type of experience with your smartphone, the perfect mix between a walking tour, sightseeing, and a scavenger hunt.

Discover Matsumoto on this full-day tour through Japan’s historic heartland. Explore the black-walled Matsumoto Castle, a rare original fortress with deep samurai history. Visit a 150-year-old miso brewery for a guided tour and onigiri lunch. Stroll Japan’s largest wasabi farm, sampling wasabi ice cream and other treats. Taste local wines at a countryside vineyard, then end the day at the Ukiyo-e Museum, home to a major woodblock print collection. Led by a local guide, this small-group tour offers an authentic Matsumoto experience. ※ Depart from Nagano (8:00 AM / 8.5 hrs) or Matsumoto (9:30 AM / 6.25 hrs). Finish at either station. Luggage accepted only for one-way transfers between Nagano and Matsumoto (advance notice required). ・Matsumoto Castle ・Miso brewery tour & onigiri lunch ・Japan’s largest wasabi farm & local treats ・Local wine tasting in countryside vineyard ・Ukiyo-e Museum print collection ・Start/finish at Nagano or Matsumoto (luggage one-way only, notice required)