Matsumoto Castle, Sake & Food Walking Tour in Nagano

Matsumoto Castle, a 16th-century fortress, stands as a testament to Japan’s rich history. Visitors can explore its distinctive black-and-white exterior and learn about its strategic importance during guided tours. Complementing the castle, local artisans showcase their time-honored craftsmanship, and guests can enjoy the charming historic streets, sampling regional specialties and savoring a guided sake tasting. This comprehensive tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the cultural heritage of the Nagano region, leaving one eager to discover more.

This experience made our list of the 5 Best Walking Tours In Matsumoto.

Key Points

1. Explore the well-preserved 16th-century Matsumoto Castle, known for its distinctive black-and-white exterior and informative guided tours.

2. Observe artisans crafting traditional woodcarvings and pottery, and browse handmade souvenirs that showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage.

3. Immerse in the charming atmosphere of Matsumoto’s historic districts, Nawate Street, and Nakamachi Shopping Street, indulging in local street food specialties.

4. Savor a guided sake tasting, learning about the brewing process and unique characteristics of the region’s renowned sake offerings.

5. Explore the vibrant street food scene of Matsumoto, tasting classic specialties like Taiyaki and Takoyaki that showcase the area’s culinary heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Matsumoto Castle

The tour begins with an exploration of the iconic Matsumoto Castle, a 16th-century fortification that stands as one of Japan’s most well-preserved original castles. Participants will have the opportunity to wander through the castle’s historic halls and admire its distinctive black-and-white exterior.

As they ascend the wooden stairs, they’ll be immersed in the castle’s rich history, learning about its strategic importance and the architectural features that have enabled it to withstand the test of time. The guided tour provides an in-depth look at this remarkable cultural treasure, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for Japan’s feudal past.

Discovering Hidden Gems

After exploring the grandeur of Matsumoto Castle, the tour next leads participants to a hidden gem, a local hotel offering a glimpse into Nagano’s rich cultural heritage. This stop showcases the region’s traditional craftsmanship and artistry.

Here, visitors can:

1. Observe skilled artisans at work, meticulously creating intricate woodcarvings and pottery.
2. Learn about the historical significance and techniques behind these time-honored crafts.
3. Browse an impressive selection of handmade souvenirs, perfect for bringing a touch of Nagano’s authentic charm back home.

This immersive experience provides a deeper understanding of the local culture and allows participants to connect with the history and traditions that have shaped the region.

Strolling Nawate Street

Next, the tour leads participants down Nawate Street, a charming pedestrian-only thoroughfare that transports visitors back in time. Lined with historic buildings, traditional craft shops, and family-owned businesses, Nawate Street offers a glimpse into Matsumoto’s past. Visitors can explore the vibrant atmosphere, browse unique local products, and sample delectable street food.

Item	Price
Taiyaki (fish-shaped cake)	¥300
Takoyaki (octopus balls)	¥400
Miso soup	¥200
Amazake (sweet fermented rice drink)	¥350
Senbei (traditional Japanese rice crackers)	¥150

Along this lively street, the tour provides opportunities to take in the local culture and indulge in the flavors that make Matsumoto a renowned culinary destination.

Exploring Nakamachi Shopping Street

Continuing the walking tour, participants explore the charming Nakamachi Shopping Street. This historic district is known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and abundance of local shops and eateries.

The guide leads the group through the lively pedestrian-only street, pointing out notable landmarks such as:

1. The former samurai residences with their distinctive black-and-white façades.
2. The traditional Japanese confectionary shops, offering a variety of mouthwatering sweets.
3. The artisanal workshops showcasing the region’s skilled craftsmanship in pottery, textiles, and other local specialties.

Participants have the opportunity to browse the shops, sample local delicacies, and enjoy the charming atmosphere of this well-preserved historic district.

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Savoring Sake Tasting

The walking tour then takes participants to a historic sake brewery, where they’ve the opportunity to savor a tasting of the region’s renowned sake offerings. The guide provides insights into the brewing process and the unique characteristics of the local sake varieties.

Participants learn to appreciate the subtle flavors and aromas, as they sample several different types of sake. This sake tasting experience allows them to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the rich cultural heritage of the Nagano region.

The guide encourages participants to ask questions and engage in discussion, making the tasting session both educational and enjoyable.

Indulging in Street Food

After savoring the local sake offerings, the walking tour then leads participants to explore the vibrant street food scene of Matsumoto. Tasting local delicacies is an integral part of the experience, with the guide introducing the group to a variety of classic street snacks. These include:

1. Taiyaki, a fish-shaped cake filled with sweet red bean paste.
2. Takoyaki, fluffy balls of octopus-filled dough.
3. Other seasonal specialties that showcase the region’s culinary heritage.

Participants have the opportunity to enjoy the lively atmosphere of Nawate Street and Nakamachi Shopping Street, where the aromas of freshly prepared treats linger in the air, enticing visitors to indulge in the local flavors.

Highlights of the Tour

Matsumoto Castle stands as the centerpiece of this immersive experience, offering participants a glimpse into the region’s rich history. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the 16th-century castle, marveling at its impressive architecture and learning about its fascinating past.

Beyond the castle, the tour takes guests on a delectable journey, with a sake tasting at a historic brewery and a sampling of traditional street food favorites, such as Taiyaki and Takoyaki. Strolling through the charming Nawate Street and Nakamachi Shopping Street, participants can enjoy the local culture and uncover hidden gems that make this tour truly special.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

Although the tour includes several key experiences, there are also some exclusions to be aware of. The tour covers the entrance fees to Matsumoto Castle, a sake tasting session, and two street food samples. Photographs taken during the tour are also provided to participants after the event.

However, the tour doesn’t include any additional drinks or food, nor does it cover bullet train tickets or other transportation. Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with heart problems, wheelchair users, or individuals over 70, 80, or 95 years old.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Additional Sake Tasting During the Tour?

Yes, participants can purchase additional sake tastings during the tour. However, they should check with the tour guide as the availability and cost of extra tastings may vary.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Sake Tasting?

The minimum age requirement for sake tasting is typically 20 years old in Japan. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator as they may have additional age restrictions or requirements for the sake tasting portion of the tour.

Can I Substitute the Street Food Samples With Other Items?

The tour allows participants to substitute the street food samples with other items. However, it’s best to check with the tour provider in advance to ensure the substitutions are available and accommodate any dietary restrictions or preferences.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Free Exploration on the Tour?

The tour allocates approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes for free exploration time, allowing participants to independently explore Nawate Street and Nakamachi Shopping Street after visiting Matsumoto Castle and experiencing the sake tasting session.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Participants can communicate any dietary needs to the tour operator, who will work to modify the food samples provided during the walking tour.

Recap

Matsumoto Castle, with its striking black-and-white exterior, is the centerpiece of this immersive tour. Visitors explore the fortress’s history, then discover local craftsmanship and savor regional specialties, from taiyaki to sake. The guided experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into Nagano’s rich cultural heritage, blending the castle’s grandeur with the charm of historic streets and the flavors of traditional cuisine.

You can check if your dates are available here: