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Offered languages
- English
Discover the unique flavors and traditions of Azumino and Matsumoto on this private car tour. Highlights include hands-on wasabi harvesting at Juuichiya, a wasabi-grating and soba lunch at Goho-den, a visit to Daio Wasabi Farm, and the iconic Matsumoto Castle. This tour blends food, culture, and history into one journey.
By joining, you gain exclusive access to wasabi fields normally open only to local farmers, guided by experts who share the traditions of water-grown wasabi cultivation. Savor freshly grated wasabi with handmade soba, stroll among watermills, and step inside a National Treasure castle. It’s a deeper way to connect with Japanese culture beyond typical sightseeing.
This tour is ideal for food lovers, families with children curious about farming and nature, and anyone interested in tasting and learning about Japan’s wasabi culture. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking a memorable day in Nagano, this experience offers something unforgettable.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Please wait at the gate of the station. There is only one ticket gate at JR Matsumoto Station. You guide will be waiting for you at the gate with a welcome board which your name is written on.
Itinerary
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(Pass by)
You will meet your guide and driver at Matsumoto Station.
Admission ticket free -
1
From there, you will head to a wasabi field in Azumino City. This special wasabi field is normally accessible only to local farmers, but on this tour you will be able to enter the field yourself. Rubber boots will be provided, so please wear comfortable clothing. Please note that there are no restrooms near the wasabi fields, so we recommend using the facilities at the Tourist Information Center before departure. At the end of the experience, you can take home one fresh wasabi root as a souvenir.
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
2
After harvesting, you will bring your wasabi to “Soba-dokoro Goho-den.” Here, you will grate the wasabi you picked and enjoy it with handmade soba noodles. The menu is a special set prepared exclusively for this experience, including soba, kakiage tempura, and traditional tools for grating wasabi. You can also compare the freshly grated wasabi with the regular wasabi provided as condiments. Discover the clear difference in flavor and spiciness, and savor the harmony of freshly grated wasabi with authentic Shinshu soba.
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
3
The last stop of the Wasabi Tourism experience is Daio Wasabi Farm, the largest wasabi farm in Japan. Here, precious water-grown wasabi is cultivated with the pure spring water of Azumino. While you cannot enter the wasabi fields, you can stroll through the vast grounds, enjoy the sound of the river and the movement of waterwheels, and try unique treats such as wasabi ice cream or shop for wasabi-related souvenirs at this popular sightseeing spot.
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
4
Finally, visit Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful and original castles, designated as a National Treasure. Known as the “Crow Castle” for its striking black exterior, it offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. You can walk through the wooden interior, climb its steep stairs, and enjoy panoramic views of Matsumoto city and the surrounding Japanese Alps.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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