Explore Matsumoto: Castle, Sake & Taste of Local Life

5.0
(6 reviews)

3 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Embark on a captivating journey through Nagano, where history, culture, and culinary delights converge. After meeting your guide at Matsumoto Station, step into the past at Matsumoto Castle, a national treasure dating back to the 16th century. Ascend its wooden halls, absorb the ambiance of tatami mat floors, and relish panoramic views from the castle keep, unraveling the tales of feudal Japan.

Continue with a sake-tasting odyssey at a historic brewery run by seasoned owners. Immerse yourself in the nuances of local sake flavors.

Savor 2 street foods (e.g. sweet rice dumplings, taiyaki, oyaki) on the the lively Nawate Street affectionately known as Frog Street.

Delve into history at Nakamachi Shopping Street, an Edo-period avenue adorned with well-preserved merchant houses. Explore quaint shops and cafes, absorbing the echoes of Matsumoto's past.

Reflect on a day filled with Matsumoto's medieval grandeur and modernity as the tour concludes at Matsumoto Station.

What's Included

Premium sake tasting experience at a local brewery
Guided walk through Nakamachi and Nawate historic streets
Local snacks included (e.g. taiyaki or sweets from the brewery)
High quality photographs taken throughout the experience to be shared with you after the tour
Matsumoto castle entrance fees
Extra drinks and food (available to purchase)
Meal for infant
Transportation fee to meeting point
There are no mandatory in-destination costs.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
You can choose from multiple locations at checkout.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 3 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    Meet Up with our guide just in front of Starbucks in Matsumoto station and walk to get Matsumoto castle

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Arrival at Matsumoto castle. You go to enter Matsumoto castle and see inside of national treasure. It takes about 45min to 60min to look around.

    1 hour Admission ticket included
  • 3

    Your guide will introduce you retro town, favourite eateries and cafes on the way to Nawate Street.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4

    It’s like visiting to grandparents. The place is run by old owners. A lovely experience, delicious sake and enjoy having a look at inside of brewery.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5

    One of the highlights of Nawate Street is the abundance of frog-themed decorations and sculptures. The frog motif is prevalent throughout the street, and there are various frog-related items available for purchase in the shops. The street attracts both locals and tourists who come to enjoy the quaint atmosphere, explore the shops, and take in the artistic and whimsical elements.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6

    Nakamachi Street is another charming and historic street located in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, Japan. Like Nawate Street, Nakamachi is known for its well-preserved traditional buildings and offers visitors a glimpse into the Edo period (1603-1868) architecture. Nakamachi Street is lined with kurazukuri buildings, which are traditional merchant houses with distinctive white walls and black latticework. These buildings now house various shops, cafes, galleries, and museums. The street has a nostalgic and tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular destination for those interested in experiencing the historical aspects of Matsumoto. Visitors to Nakamachi Street can explore the unique shops selling local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional Japanese goods. The area is also known for its sake breweries and local food establishments, providing an opportunity to taste regional specialties.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    The tour concludes at Matsumoto station and your guide will say good-bye here. *If you want to explore more Matsumoto by yourself, you can stay in Nakamachi street area to wander around to continue your adventure*

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • 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
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by o8Experience

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Tags

Half-day Tours
Architecture Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Sake Tasting
Food & Drink

Cancellation Policy

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

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Rating

5.0 Based on 6 6 reviews
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