From Tokyo: National Treasure Matsumoto Castle & Cherry Blossom

Tokyo , Japan

From Tokyo: National Treasure Matsumoto Castle & Cherry Blossom

Active

12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the beauty of Japan’s cherry blossom season on a journey from Tokyo to Nagano’s most iconic sakura sites: Ueda Castle and the National Treasure Matsumoto Castle.

This tour blends seasonal scenery with samurai history. Stroll beneath thousands of cherry trees in full bloom while exploring historic castle grounds from the Sengoku era. From the legendary Sanada Clan’s stronghold to the striking “Black Crow” Castle, each stop is carefully selected for a meaningful spring experience.

A perfect balance of history, culture, and sakura, designed for travelers seeking more than just a scenic walk.

Available options

Join-in Day Tour from Tokyo

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Enjoy a traditional meal at Kinokomura Shinzan, showcasing Nagano’s satoyama culture. Taste local specialties like wild mushrooms and Shinshu soba, inspired by seasonal mountain cuisine.

Detailed itinerary

Ueda Castle: The Stronghold of the Unyielding Sanada Clan

Walk the historic grounds where the famed Sanada warriors held their fortress against vastly superior forces.

Once celebrated as an “Invincible Fortress,” the castle ruins are now surrounded by around 1,000 cherry trees. Strolling through the old gates evokes the Sengoku era, with drifting petals recalling tales of courage, resilience, and masterful strategy.

National Treasure Matsumoto Castle: The “Black Crow” Amid Sakura Blooms

Discover one of Japan’s rare surviving 16th-century castles, designated a National Treasure and famed for its striking black exterior.

Picture the deep black walls set against clouds of soft pink cherry blossoms, with the snow-capped Japanese Alps rising in the background. This dramatic contrast creates one of the most breathtaking scenes in Japan—and beyond.

What's not included

Matsumoto Castle Tower Admission Ticket

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cherry Blossom Timing: Bloom dates vary each year depending on the weather. We aim for the peak, but nature is unpredictable.

Regardless of when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the tour will take place as soon as there is sufficient interest.

Castle Entry: During peak season, the wait time to enter the interior of Matsumoto Castle’s keep can exceed 60 minutes. (Matsumoto Castle entrance ticket not included)

Lunch menu may vary depending on ingredients purchased. If you have any food allergies, please tell us when you register. (We will remove the affected ingredients as far as possible).

If you have any special requirements, please inform us at the time of booking. (Some fees may apply.) When we receive your request, we will do our best to accommodate it.

Clothing: Please wear comfortable walking shoes (sneakers recommended). Nagano is often cooler than Tokyo; we recommend bringing a light jacket.

If the minimum of 20 participants is not met, or if the tour cannot proceed due to force majeure such as disasters or accidents, the tour may be changed or canceled at least 3 days prior to departure.

Please arrive at the designated meeting point at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

The bus will depart at the scheduled time at the discretion of our staff. We cannot wait for late arrivals. If you miss the departure, the tour fee will not be refunded.

The scheduled times and itinerary details are subject to change due to traffic conditions, weather, or other unavoidable circumstances. Thank you for your understanding.

In the unlikely event that the tour is significantly delayed, and you incur expenses such as a taxi fare or accommodation, we regret that our company cannot accept any claim for compensation. We strongly recommend leaving ample time for connections after the tour.

Depending on the final number of participants, the tour may use a medium-sized or small bus instead of a large one.

Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the bus.

Please be mindful of the person behind you when you recline your seat. For safety reasons, the guide may advise against using the recliner on certain routes.

When leaving the bus, even temporarily, please return your seat to the upright position.

The bus is not equipped with a restroom. The bus will make scheduled stops for bathroom breaks.

Please limit your luggage to items that can be safely stored in the overhead bin or under your seat. If you need to store large luggage on the bus during the tour, please notify us in advance. Please note that some small vans cannot accommodate a lot of luggage.

Bus seats will be assigned by the company. While we understand seating preferences, specific seat requests cannot be guaranteed.

In emergency situations, our tour conductor may sit in an otherwise empty seat next to you.

Bringing pets of any kind is not permitted on the tour. (Excluding certified service animals, with prior notice.)

In accordance with Japan's "Work Style Reform Law," the conductor's working hours are legally restricted. Therefore, meal times during the itinerary will be designated as the tour conductor's rest period.

During designated free time, you are generally expected to enjoy the activities on your own without a guide.

Lost and found items will be held for two weeks after the tour ends. When contacting us about them, it will be helpful to tell us your seating position during the tour.

Meeting point

If you come from JR Shinjuku Station: walk from the West Exit (about 10 min)
If you use the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Nishi-Shinjuku Station: 2 minutes from exit E7
The tour guide will hold the HIS logo blue flag or HIS logo meeting board at the meeting point.

About Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a bustling metropolis that beautifully blends traditional culture with cutting-edge technology. Known for its neon-lit streets, historic temples, and world-class cuisine, Tokyo offers a unique experience that caters to every type of traveler.

Top Attractions

Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most significant. The temple's massive lantern and five-story pagoda are iconic landmarks.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for some areas)

Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. It is surrounded by a beautiful forest.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is the world's busiest pedestrian crossing and a symbol of Tokyo's bustling urban life. It's a must-see for its chaotic yet orderly nature.

Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (¥2,200 for Shibuya Sky)

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan and the second tallest freestanding structure in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the city.

Architecture 2-3 hours ¥2,100 to ¥3,100 (USD $15 to $22)

Odaiba

Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place for families and tech enthusiasts.

Entertainment Half day to full day Varies by attraction

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sushi

Fresh raw fish served on vinegared rice, a staple of Japanese cuisine.

Dinner Contains fish, can be vegetarian with substitutes.

Ramen

Noodle soup with various broths and toppings, a popular comfort food.

Lunch/Dinner Vegan and vegetarian options available.

Tempura

Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, known for its crispy texture.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and deep-fried ingredients.

Okonomiyaki

Savory pancake with various ingredients, often topped with sauce and bonito flakes.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and can be made vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Parasailing at Odaiba Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Traditional tea ceremonies Kimono rentals and photo shoots Boat tours on the Sumida River Beach activities at Odaiba

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)

These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. However, these are also the busiest times for tourism.

10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Tokyo is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public order. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis and check fares before getting in.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 60 km (37 miles) from city center
Haneda Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center

By train

Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station

By bus

Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Tokyo's subway system is efficient, clean, and punctual. It consists of multiple lines operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Shibuya Shinjuku Asakusa Ginza Akihabara

Day trips

Nikko

120 km (75 miles) from Tokyo • Full day

Nikko is a city known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and natural scenery. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Kamakura

50 km (31 miles) from Tokyo • Half day to full day

Kamakura is a coastal town known for its historic temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha statue. It's a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture.

Hakone

90 km (56 miles) from Tokyo • Full day or overnight

Hakone is a hot spring resort town known for its onsen (hot springs), scenic views of Mount Fuji, and the Open-Air Museum. It's a popular destination for relaxation and nature.

Festivals

Sannō Matsuri • Mid-June (every 2 years) Kanda Matsuri • Mid-May (every 2 years) Sumida River Fireworks Festival • Last Saturday of July

Pro tips

Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transport.
Download useful apps like Google Maps, Japan Transit Planner, and Japan Travel by Navitime.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Carry cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.