Nagano Day Trip to Matsumoto Castle and Post Town Narai-juku

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  Chino Station

  After meeting your tour conductor at Shinjuku Station in the morning, you will board the limited express Azusa train with standard reserved seating and begin your journey toward Nagano. This comfortable train ride allows you to travel efficiently without road congestion, offering a smooth transition from the busy city to a more relaxed regional setting. Upon arrival at Chino Station, you will transfer to your tour bus and begin exploring the surrounding area. *Exact meeting time details and final train arrangements will be provided by email approximately 1 week before departure.

  5 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 2

  You will arrive at Narai-juku, a beautifully preserved historic post town that has recently gained attention on social media for its nostalgic atmosphere. Here, you will walk through a long street lined with traditional wooden buildings that once served travelers along an ancient route connecting Tokyo and Kyoto. The town feels like a step back in time, where the architecture, narrow pathways, and quiet surroundings reflect centuries of history. Each season brings a different charm. In spring, fresh greenery appears around the village. In summer, the deep green mountains create a vivid backdrop. In autumn, warm colors enhance the nostalgic feeling. Even on rainy days, the wet stone paths and soft mist create a peaceful and photogenic scene. You will have free time to explore at your own pace, discover small local shops, and enjoy the slow rhythm of this preserved town.

  1 hour 40 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 3
  Daio Wasabi Farm

  After Narai-juku, the bus travels for about 75 minutes to Daio Wasabi Farm, known as one of Japan’s largest and most well-known wasabi farms. Surrounded by nature, this area features clear flowing spring water that supports the careful cultivation of wasabi. Visitors can walk along paths that pass through neatly arranged fields and waterways, creating a unique landscape that reflects both agriculture and natural beauty. The setting provides a calm and refreshing atmosphere where you can observe traditional farming methods and enjoy the open surroundings far from urban environments.

  50 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 4
  Matsumoto Castle

  Next, the bus travels about 35 minutes to Matsumoto Castle, an officially designated national treasure and one of Japan’s most significant original castles. The castle is known for its striking black exterior and well-preserved wooden structure. You will enter the main tower, where you can explore the interior and experience historical architecture from the samurai era, including steep stairways and defensive features. Walking through the castle offers insight into Japan’s feudal past, making it both a cultural and historical highlight of the tour.

  1 hour 10 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 5
  Ishii Miso

  After a short bus ride of about 10 minutes, you will visit a traditional miso brewery known for its long history and dedication to craftsmanship. Inside, large wooden barrels are used to ferment miso using methods that have been passed down over time. You will learn about the production process and understand the importance of miso in Japanese cuisine. This visit offers a deeper appreciation of local food culture and the role of traditional fermentation in everyday life.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 6

  You will then transfer to Matsumoto Station to board the limited express Azusa train for your return journey to Tokyo. With standard reserved seating, you can relax as the train takes you back comfortably after a full day of exploration. You will arrive at Shinjuku Station in the evening, between approximately 20:09 and 21:17, where the tour concludes.

  20 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• This tour is operated for both Japanese and foreign customers. An English-speaking tour conductor will accompany the group and provide key information. Please note that the tour conductor is not a tour guide and will focus on sharing essential information during the tour.
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be contacted 5 days prior to your travel date and offered an alternative or full refund.

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