Nagano: Matsushiro Samurai Town Walking Tour

Nagano’s Matsushiro Samurai Town offers a captivating glimpse into Japan’s storied past. This walking tour takes visitors on a journey through the town’s rich history, highlighting the impressive Matsushiro Castle Ruins and the intriguing Sanada Treasures Museum. Along the way, you will uncover the secrets of samurai education at the Matsushiro Bunbu School and savor the delightful flavors of traditional Oyaki dumplings. With convenient transportation and a flexible booking process, this tour promises an enriching cultural experience that will leave you eager to discover more.

Key Points

• This walking tour explores the historical sites of Matsushiro, including the Matsushiro Castle Ruins, Sanada Treasures Museum, and Sanada Family Residence.
• The tour provides insights into the region’s samurai heritage, with visits to the Matsushiro Bunbu School and a tasting experience at the Oyaki Farm Matsushiro.
• The tour duration is approximately 2.5 hours, with flexible booking and cancellation policies, and round-trip transportation from Nagano station.
• Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and be aware of restrictions for baby strollers, alcoholic drinks, and outside food in the vehicle.
• The tour may have additional entrance fees and photography restrictions in certain areas, and the itinerary is subject to change, requiring flexibility from participants.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Matsushiro Castle Ruins

The tour begins with a visit to the Matsushiro Castle Ruins, where visitors can explore the well-preserved moats, stone walls, and reconstructed gates that showcase the site’s historical significance.

Visitors will spend around 15 minutes wandering through the ruins, learning about the castle’s role in the Sanada clan’s history.

The impressive stone structures and defensive features provide a glimpse into the architectural and military engineering of the samurai era.

This stop sets the stage for the deeper dive into Matsushiro’s samurai heritage throughout the rest of the walking tour.

Sanada Treasures Museum

Next, the tour moves on to the Sanada Treasures Museum, where participants spend approximately 40 minutes exploring the impressive collection of artifacts and historical documents related to the prominent Sanada family.

The museum showcases a range of samurai armor, swords, and other relics that provide insight into the lifestyles and legacy of this influential clan. Visitors can admire the intricate craftsmanship and learn about the Sanada’s role in the region’s history.

This museum stop offers a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the samurai heritage of Matsushiro.

Former Sanada Family Residence

After visiting the Sanada Treasures Museum, the tour guides participants to the Former Sanada Family Residence.

Here, they’ll discover the traditional architecture and beautiful gardens that showcase the samurai lifestyle. The 30-minute visit allows guests to wander through the residence, admiring the well-preserved interiors and learning about the Sanada family’s history.

The tranquil setting offers a glimpse into the daily lives of these influential samurai. Participants can explore the grounds, take photos, and gain a deeper appreciation for the elegance and sophistication of the samurai culture.

Matsushiro Bunbu School

After visiting the Former Sanada Family Residence, the tour group makes their way to the Matsushiro Bunbu School.

This historic school, established in 1855, taught samurai both literary and martial arts skills. Visitors spend 45 minutes exploring the well-preserved buildings and learning about the school’s curriculum and traditions.

They’ll see classrooms, a dojo for sword training, and a library housing ancient texts. The guide explains how the Bunbu School played a crucial role in shaping the samurai culture of Matsushiro.

Guests gain insight into the rigorous education and discipline required of these warrior-scholars.

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Oyaki Farm Matsushiro

The tour group then heads to Oyaki Farm Matsushiro, where they’ll experience a 30-minute tasting and factory tour in a tranquil setting. Oyaki is a traditional Japanese dumpling with a savory or sweet filling, and visitors can sample the different flavors. Plus, they’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the oyaki-making process, from dough preparation to cooking. This stop offers a delightful respite from the historical sights, allowing guests to enjoy Matsushiro’s local culinary heritage.

Tasting Menu
Pumpkin Oyaki	Sweet Potato Oyaki
Miso Oyaki	Spinach Oyaki
Chocolate Oyaki

Booking Information

How flexible is the booking process for the Matsushiro Samurai Town Walking Tour?

Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later. There’s also flexibility with cancellations – cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Nagano station, so getting to the starting point is convenient.

Participants should keep in mind some restrictions, like no baby strollers, alcoholic drinks, or outside food allowed in the vehicle.

Inclusions

The Matsushiro Samurai Town Walking Tour offers an extensive list of inclusions to provide a truly immersive experience.

Guests can explore the well-preserved Matsushiro Castle Ruins, marvel at artifacts and historical documents at the Sanada Treasures Museum, and uncover the traditional architecture and gardens of the Former Sanada Family Residence.

The tour also includes a visit to the Matsushiro Bunbu School to learn about samurai education.

Plus, participants can enjoy an Oyaki tasting and factory tour at the Oyaki Farm Matsushiro.

Transportation to and from Matsushiro is provided, and extra drinks and food are available for purchase.

Important Notes

Although not suitable for individuals with heart problems, wheelchair users, people over 220 lbs (100 kg), or over 95 years, the Matsushiro Samurai Town Walking Tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the region. Certain restrictions apply, including no baby strollers, carriages, alcoholic drinks, or food in the vehicle. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes, as some areas may have additional entrance fees, and photography may be restricted in certain locations. The itinerary is subject to change, so flexibility is recommended.

Restrictions	Recommendations	Additional Information
No baby strollers	Wear comfortable shoes	Some areas may have additional entrance fees
No carriages	Photography may be restricted in certain areas	Itinerary subject to change
No alcoholic drinks
No food in the vehicle

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, souvenirs can be purchased during the tour. The tour includes a visit to Oyaki Farm Matsushiro, where visitors can sample and purchase traditional Japanese snacks and treats as souvenirs.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes. They should also avoid bringing large bags or strollers, as some areas may have restricted access. Layers are recommended to adapt to changing weather conditions.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The tour is not suitable for individuals over 95 years old or over 220 lbs (100 kg). However, there are no specific age restrictions, and guests of all ages are welcome to participate as long as they meet the other requirements.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, participants can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes an Oyaki tasting, but additional drinks and food must be purchased separately. Restrictions are in place to maintain the group experience.

Is the Tour Guide Available for Additional Questions?

The tour guide is available during the tour to answer any additional questions participants may have. They’re knowledgeable about the tour’s sights and history and are happy to provide more details or clarification as needed.

The Sum Up

The Nagano: Matsushiro Samurai Town Walking Tour offers an immersive journey into Japan’s rich samurai heritage. From the impressive Matsushiro Castle Ruins to the captivating Sanada Treasures Museum, you will delve deep into this fascinating history. The tour also includes a visit to the beautifully preserved Former Sanada Family Residence and a delightful tasting experience of traditional Oyaki dumplings, making it a comprehensive and enriching cultural adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: