Matsumoto Discovery - Half Day Walking Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
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!
Available options
Matsumoto Discovery - Half Day
3 Hour Half-Day Walking Tour
What's included
Entry/Admission – Matsumoto Castle
English speaking Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Matsumoto Castle is one of five castles designated as ‘National Treasures of Japan’ and the oldest castle donjon remaining in Japan. Construction began in 1592 of the elegant black and white structure with its three turrets. Because of the elegant black walls, Matsumoto Castle is sometimes called ‘Crow Castle’.
Please note that the stairs to reach the top of Matsumoto Castle’s tower are steep and narrow.
2
Nawate Street is a row of small shops with a subtle but recurring frog theme. Aside from a variety of snack shops, the street also has plenty of little nick knack shops and souvenirs. Yohashira Shrine is also on Nawate Street and is a lovely place to sit while enjoying your taiyaki or rice crackers.
Feel free to stroll along Nawate Street and enjoy a relaxed rural village atmosphere within the heart of the city. Here you will find warm culture and hospitality and maybe a souvenir or two!
3
Nakamachi Street is a historic shopping area known for its old traditional storehouses called “Kura” which are characterized by their black-and-white, criss-cross patterned walls. This beautiful street is also a popular shopping area among the locals with many shops and restaurants to choose from.
You can find many Japanese handicrafts, such as pottery, lacquerware and wooden crafts.
Nakamachi retains this mercantile spirit, landmark of which is the old “Kurassic-kan”, a fully restored Sake warehouse, open to the public for viewing and host to many cultural activities.
What's not included
Transportation, miscellaneous fees for you during the activity (snacks, souvenir, etc...)
Insurance (Travel Insurance, Private Insurance, etc...)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
18 reviews
5★
17
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
21 reviews
5★
20
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Tour begins at Matsumoto Station at the front of the JR Line ticket office / Starbucks Coffee inside the station (2F)
About Matsumoto
Matsumoto is a charming city in Nagano Prefecture, known for its well-preserved Edo-period castle, the Matsumoto Castle, and its picturesque setting surrounded by mountains. The city offers a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and modern attractions, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking both culture and outdoor activities.
Top Attractions
Matsumoto Castle
Matsumoto Castle, also known as the Crow Castle, is one of Japan's most iconic and well-preserved castles. Built in the late 16th century, it offers stunning architecture and panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Historical
1-2 hours
¥610
Nakamachi Street
Nakamachi Street is a charming, tree-lined street with well-preserved Edo-period merchant houses. Today, it's a bustling area filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a mix of traditional and modern experiences.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to explore (costs vary for shopping and dining)
Kaichi School
Kaichi School is Japan's oldest modern school, founded in 1873. It has been preserved as a museum, showcasing the history of education in Japan and offering a glimpse into the past.
Historical
30-60 minutes
¥500
Matsumoto City Museum of Art
This museum features a diverse collection of contemporary and traditional Japanese art, including works by local and international artists. The building itself is an architectural gem, designed by renowned architect Ryue Nishizawa.
Cultural
1-2 hours
¥1,000
Mount Yari
Mount Yari is a stunning mountain located near Matsumoto, known for its distinctive rocky peak and beautiful hiking trails. The mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps and is a popular spot for hiking and nature lovers.
Nature
Full day (hiking)
Free (parking fees may apply)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Matsumoto Ramen
A local ramen variety featuring a rich, soy-based broth, thin noodles, and toppings like chashu pork, green onions, and a soft-boiled egg.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains gluten, pork
Soba Noodles
Buckwheat noodles served hot or cold, often with a dipping sauce or in a broth. A traditional Japanese dish with a unique, nutty flavor.
Lunch/Dinner
Gluten-free (if made with 100% buckwheat flour), vegan options available
Hida Beef
A high-quality, melt-in-your-mouth beef from the Hida region, often served as sushi, steak, or hot pot. Known for its tenderness and marbling.
Dinner
Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Northern Alps
Skiing and snowboarding in Shiga Kogen
Mountain biking and cycling
Visiting hot springs and onsens
Strolling through parks and gardens
Enjoying local cuisine and dining
Visiting Matsumoto Castle and other historic sites
Exploring Nakamachi Street and local shops
Best Time to Visit
April to May, October to November
These months offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. Tourist attractions are in full swing, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.
10°C to 25°C
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
JST (GMT+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Matsumoto is a very safe city with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime, such as pickpocketing or theft, is uncommon. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps to avoid overcharging.
- • Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette to avoid unintentionally offending locals or drawing unwanted attention.
Getting there
By air
- Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport • 150 km
- Nagano Airport • 40 km
By train
Matsumoto Station
By bus
Matsumoto Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around, especially for tourists.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Central Matsumoto
Asamizu Park
Higashimatsumoto
Day trips
Togakushi
20 km from Matsumoto • Half day to full day
Togakushi is a picturesque village nestled in the mountains, known for its beautiful shrines, hiking trails, and traditional thatched-roof houses. The area is also famous for its Togakushi shrine, one of the most important shrines in Japan.
Shiga Kogen
40 km from Matsumoto • Full day or overnight
Shiga Kogen is a stunning mountainous area known for its hot springs, hiking trails, and skiing opportunities. The area is part of the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps.
Azumino
30 km from Matsumoto • Half day to full day
Azumino is a charming town known for its beautiful cherry blossoms, historic sites, and traditional crafts. The town is also home to the famous Kamikochi hiking area, offering stunning views of the Northern Alps.
Festivals
Matsumoto Cherry Blossom Festival • Early April
Autumn Colors Festival • Mid to late November
Matsumoto Summer Festival • Early August
Pro tips
- Visit Matsumoto Castle early in the morning to see it in the mist, creating a magical and photogenic atmosphere.
- Combine your visit to Matsumoto Castle with a stroll through the nearby Nakamachi Street for shopping, dining, and exploring the historic architecture.
- Try local specialties like Matsumoto ramen, soba noodles, and Hida beef at the city's many restaurants and eateries.
- Explore the city's natural beauty by visiting Asamizu Park, a beautiful green space with scenic views of Matsumoto Castle and the surrounding mountains.
- Consider staying in a traditional ryokan for a unique cultural experience, complete with onsen baths and traditional Japanese cuisine.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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