The ancient city of Matsumoto delivers Japan’s best-preserved original castle and a wonderfully walkable historic center. The top tours here are refreshingly practical and culturally rich. I’m especially fond of the castle tours – guides bring fascinating samurai tales to life while explaining the fortress’s clever defensive features. The hands-on soba noodle-making workshops are another highlight, offering an authentic taste of local tradition. For active travelers, guided hikes on the old Nakasendo Trail and day trips to pristine Kamikochi showcase Japan’s natural beauty without the crowds. Private tours work great for families and small groups who want to set their own pace. Let’s explore the most worthwhile tours in Matsumoto.
Key Points
- The Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience offers an immersive look into historic samurai life, including a hands-on sword fighting lesson.
- The Matsumoto Castle Town Walking Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the castle, local shopping streets, and architectural heritage.
- The Matsumoto Castle, Sake & Food Walking Tour combines the castle visit with sake tasting and classic Japanese street food.
- The Nakasendo Trail Walking Tour allows visitors to experience the historical Nakasendo Trail, featuring scenic views and cobblestone paths.
- The Etour De Matsumoto – Private Electric Bike Tour offers a rundown of Matsumoto’s historic shrines and rice fields on an electric bike.
Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience
One of the top-rated tours in Matsumoto is the Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience. This immersive tour allows visitors to experience samurai life in Japan’s historic Matsumoto.
Matsumoto Castle, a designated National Treasure, features a well-preserved structure that tour-goers can explore. The guided tour educates guests on the castle’s samurai lords, defensive architecture, and the city’s rich history.
The tour includes a hands-on sword fighting lesson, where participants don authentic samurai outfits and wield specially selected swords. With an English-speaking guide, the tour provides an engaging, educational experience.
Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and memorable samurai activities. While the castle’s steep stairs and cold interior may present challenges for some, the tour is suitable for most ages.
Due to safety regulations, participants use plastic blades during the sword experience. Despite this limitation, the tour offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s past, creating lasting memories for visitors.
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Matsumoto Castle Town Walking Tour
For travelers seeking to further enjoy Matsumoto’s history and culture, the Matsumoto Castle Town Walking Tour provides an engaging exploration of the city’s historic district. Priced at €58.44 per person, the 3-hour tour departs from Matsumoto Station and includes guided visits to the iconic Matsumoto Castle, the charming Nawate Shopping Street, and the historic Nakamachi neighborhood.
During the castle tour, the knowledgeable English-speaking guide shares insights into the samurai heritage and architectural features of this well-preserved 16th-century fortress.
Visitors can then stroll along Nawate Street to meet the friendly “frogs” that have become the area’s iconic mascots. The tour also allows time to explore Nakamachi’s traditional buildings and shops, offering a glimpse into the city’s vibrant local culture.
With a 4.8/5 overall rating and high praise for the guides’ expertise and the immersive experience, the Matsumoto Castle Town Walking Tour is an excellent way to discover the highlights of this historic Japanese city.
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Matsumoto Discovery – Half Day Walking Tour
The Matsumoto Discovery – Half Day Walking Tour offers travelers an immersive exploration of the historic city of Matsumoto. Rated 4.9/5 and recommended by 96% of travelers, this half-day tour showcases the city’s top attractions, including the iconic Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, and the Japan Ukiyoe Museum.
The tour also visits the Daio Wasabi Farm in Azumino City, providing a unique glimpse into the region’s agricultural heritage. Conducted by National Government Licensed Guide Interpreters, the tour is customizable to suit individual preferences.
Guides offer in-depth insights into Matsumoto’s history, culture, and local attractions, enhancing the overall experience. With a maximum group size of 15, the tour ensures personalized attention and an intimate exploration of the city.
At $62.15 per person, the tour includes the services of an English-speaking guide, entry/admission fees, transportation, and insurance. The tour begins and ends at Matsumoto Station, making it easily accessible for visitors.
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From Matsumoto/Nagano: Nakasendo Trail Walking TourThis Appears to Be a Description of a Walking Tour Along the Nakasendo Trail, Which Is Located in the Matsumoto/Nagano Region of Japan. the Nakasendo Trail Was One of the Major Historical Transportation Routes Connecting Edo (Now Tokyo) and Kyoto During the Edo Period. the Trail Passes Through Mountainous Areas and Historic Post Towns, Offering Visitors a Chance
After exploring the historic city of Matsumoto on the previous tour, travelers can venture further into the Nagano region to experience the scenic Nakasendo Trail.
This one-day walking tour, priced from £152.52 per person, takes visitors through the heart of the Nakasendo Trail, a renowned historical route connecting Edo (now Tokyo) and Kyoto.
The tour starts from Matsumoto or Nagano stations, with a 3.83-hour bus ride to the preserved post town of Tsumago-juku. Participants will enjoy a guided tour of the town before embarking on an 8km hike to Magome, which takes approximately 3 hours.
Along the way, they can admire the Odaki and Medaki waterfalls, spot wildlife, and enjoy the historical cobblestone paths. After free time in Magome, the bus returns to the starting point in around 3.33 hours.
This tour isn’t suitable for children under 7, those with mobility issues, or wheelchair users, as it involves significant walking.
Participants should come prepared with proper hiking shoes, water, and weather-appropriate clothing.
Read our full review: From Matsumoto/Nagano: Nakasendo Trail Walking TourThis Appears to Be a Description of a Walking Tour Along the Nakasendo Trail, Which Is Located in the Matsumoto/Nagano Region of Japan. the Nakasendo Trail Was One of the Major Historical Transportation Routes Connecting Edo (Now Tokyo) and Kyoto During the Edo Period. the Trail Passes Through Mountainous Areas and Historic Post Towns, Offering Visitors a Chance Review
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Full Day Private Tour To Mount Fuji Assisted By English Chauffeur
Although travelers may have already explored the historic city of Matsumoto, they can venture further and embark on a full-day private tour to the iconic Mount Fuji. This tour is assisted by an English-speaking chauffeur, providing a comfortable and convenient experience.
With a 4.6 overall rating from 27 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, the tour offers a personalized excursion for up to 13 people.
The tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with freeway tolls and fuel surcharges covered. Admission to the Mt. Fuji 5th Station and the Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nemba are also included, providing access to key attractions.
However, gratuities and meals aren’t covered. Pickup and drop-off can be arranged from various locations in the Mount Fuji area and Tokyo wards, with the flexibility to start and end the tour at different points.
While the tour has received positive feedback for its comfortable rides and knowledgeable drivers, some travelers have cited issues with communication and itinerary management.
The host acknowledges these concerns and expresses a commitment to improving services.
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Matsumoto Castle Tour & Soba Noodle Experience
For travelers seeking a unique culture in Matsumoto, the Matsumoto Castle Tour & Soba Noodle Experience offers an exceptional opportunity. This highly-rated tour, with a 92% traveler recommendation, takes visitors on a journey through the city’s history and culinary traditions.
The tour begins at Matsumoto Station, where you will explore the iconic Matsumoto Castle, a Japanese National Treasure. Following this, they’ll embark on a soba noodle-making session led by a master, gaining hands-on experience with the traditional tools and techniques.
The experience includes tasting soba noodles prepared in various styles, such as hot, chilled, and with side dishes. Guests will also enjoy additional side dishes, snacks, and drinks as part of the inclusive package.
With a maximum group size of 10 travelers, the tour ensures a personalized and interactive experience. Priced at $89.63 per person, the Matsumoto Castle Tour & Soba Noodle Experience provides excellent value, combining historical and cultural elements for an unforgettable day in this picturesque Japanese city.
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From Takayama: Shinhotaka Ropeway and Kamikochi Tour
Travelers exploring the heart of Japan’s stunning Japanese Alps can embark on a captivating Shinhotaka Ropeway and Kamikochi tour from the charming city of Takayama. Priced at €201.17 per person, this full-day excursion offers an unforgettable experience, including a thrilling two-stage ropeway ride and a guided tour through the breathtaking Kamikochi valley.
The tour starts at Takayama Station, where participants board a bus for the scenic one-hour journey to the Shinhotaka Ropeway. Here, they’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour gondola ride, taking in the panoramic 360-degree vistas of the surrounding peaks.
The journey continues with a guided exploration of Kamikochi, a stunning alpine landscape along the Azusa River. Travelers can stroll across the iconic Kappa Bridge and enjoy free time to soak in the serene natural environment.
With round-trip transportation, ropeway tickets, a local guide, and lunch included, this tour provides an exceptional opportunity to take in the majesty of Japan’s mountainous heartland. Customer reviews praise the tour’s exceptional value and the guide’s ability to tailor the experience to suit all participants.
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Etour De Matsumoto – Private Electric Bike Tour
Etour de Matsumoto is a captivating private electric bike tour that allows visitors to explore the charming city of Matsumoto and its picturesque surroundings.
Rated 5.0 based on 13 reviews and recommended by 100% of travelers, this tour provides a comprehensive view of the area, including historic shrines, tranquil rice fields, and secluded temples.
Led by a knowledgeable and friendly English-speaking guide, the tour includes the use of a bicycle and helmet, as well as a delicious soba lunch from a local restaurant.
Priced from $91.59 per person, the tour offers excellent value, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, it does require a moderate level of physical fitness.
The tour promises a memorable experience for adventurous travelers seeking to enjoy the beauty and history of Matsumoto.
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Matsumoto Castle, Sake & Food Walking Tour in Nagano
This walking tour in Matsumoto offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich cultural heritage. Guests can experience the grandeur of Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful fortresses, by bypassing long ticket lines.
The tour also introduces visitors to the art of sake brewing, with a tasting at a local 300-year-old brewery. Indulging in classic Japanese street food like Taiyaki and Takoyaki is a highlight, complemented by a guided exploration of the city’s vibrant food stalls and shopping streets.
Knowledgeable and friendly guides ensure an engaging and personalized experience, sharing insights into local culture and history. Complimentary photographs throughout the tour capture cherished memories for guests.
With a maximum group size of 10, this tour provides a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. Suitable for moderately fit travelers, it delivers an enriching encounter with Matsumoto’s captivating blend of architectural, culinary, and traditional elements.
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Matsumoto Custom Full Day Tour
For travelers seeking an immersive and personalized experience in Matsumoto, the Custom Full Day Tour offers a flexible and comprehensive exploration of the city’s diverse attractions.
With over 15 landmarks and activities to choose from, the tour allows guests to curate an itinerary that aligns with their interests, including visiting Matsumoto Castle, wasabi farms, shrines, temples, and museums.
The private, English-guided tour provides transportation and hotel pickup/drop-off, ensuring a seamless experience. Guests can explore at their own pace, with the option to adjust the itinerary as needed.
While meals and entrance fees aren’t included, the tour’s moderate cancellation policy and price guarantee based on group size make it an attractive option.
To ensure a smooth booking process, it’s recommended to reserve the tour at least a month in advance, with final itinerary details provided one week prior to the tour date.
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Matsumoto Sake Tasting Walking Tour in Nagano
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Matsumoto’s renowned sake culture will find the Matsumoto Sake Tasting Walking Tour in Nagano an enticing experience. This walking tour provides visitors with the opportunity to sample more than five different sake varieties while learning about the local traditions and production methods.
Participants will also enjoy Japanese pickles prepared by the tour guide and a refreshing green tea after the tasting.
The tour includes an introduction to Matsumoto’s favorite eateries and cafes, as well as a delightful lunch. Customers can also purchase additional food and drinks throughout the experience.
Complimentary photographs will be shared with attendees, capturing the highlights of the tour.
The meeting and end points are conveniently located at the Starbucks Coffee near Matsumoto Station, ensuring a seamless start and finish. With a maximum group size of eight travelers, this tour offers an intimate and personalized sake exploration.
While a moderate fitness level is required, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals, those with serious medical conditions, or back problems.
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Matsumoto Discovery – Customizable Private Tour
Exploring the rich heritage, captivating culture, and local lifestyle of Matsumoto, the Matsumoto Discovery – Customizable Private Tour offers visitors a tailored experience to suit their unique interests.
This full-day tour, available in English or French, focuses on showcasing the city’s ancient traditions, samurai history, distinctive cuisine, and renowned artistry.
Guests will enjoy a private, English-speaking guide who’ll craft a personalized itinerary based on their preferences. The tour includes admission to Matsumoto Castle and two additional venues or activities, as well as lunch at a local restaurant.
Coverage for the guide’s meals, entrance fees, and other miscellaneous costs are also included.
The tour departs from Matsumoto Station and can end at the same location or another downtown spot.
With a 5.0-star rating and a price starting from $523.38 per group (up to 4 participants), this customizable experience provides an immersive and flexible way to discover the best of Matsumoto.
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Recap
Matsumoto offers a range of captivating tours for visitors. From exploring the historic Matsumoto Castle and experiencing samurai culture, to discovering the town’s sake breweries and natural surroundings, these tours provide an immersive glimpse into the region’s rich heritage and traditions. Whether you’re interested in walking, tasting, or customizing your experience, Matsumoto has something to suit every traveler’s preferences and interests.