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Explore Matsumoto: Castle, Sake & Taste of Local Life

Location Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
Location Nagano, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
$225.90
This is an experience gift voucher. The recipient will book the experience after they redeem the gift voucher.

Overview

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.
Explore Matsumoto
Tour guide
Language: English
Human tour guide
Duration: 3 hours

Availability depends on seasonality and number of participants. Bookings can not be made for the same day. Please read our TnC’s.

When giving as a gift, your recipient can choose a date at their convenience during a booking process. Otherwise, you can choose one after checkout and voucher redemption.
Check available dates by emailing us at [email protected]
  • Matsumoto castle entrance fees
  • High quality photographs taken throughout the experience to be shared with you after the tour
  • Local snacks included (e.g. taiyaki or sweets from the brewery)
  • Guided walk through Nakamachi and Nawate historic streets
  • Premium sake tasting experience at a local brewery
  • Transportation fee to meeting point
  • Meal for infant
  • Extra drinks and food (available to purchase)

Meeting point
In front of Beck’s Coffee inside Nagano Station (just outside the Shinkansen ticket gates)
You will meet your guide infront of Starbucks at Matsumoto station
Return details
In front of Beck’s Coffee inside Nagano Station (just outside the Shinkansen ticket gates)
You will meet your guide infront of Starbucks at Matsumoto station

  • Meet Up with our guide just in front of Starbucks in Matsumoto station and walk to get Matsumoto castle
  • Matsumoto Castle
    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.
  • Matsumoto
    Your guide will introduce you retro town, favourite eateries and cafes on the way to Nawate Street.
  • Matsumoto
    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.
  • Nawate Shopping District
    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.
  • Nakamachi Street
    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.
  • 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* (pass by)

  • 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
  • Sometimes it takes more than 30 min to enter Matsumoto castle
  • Walking shoes are recommended
  • Minimum alcahol drinking age is 20 years. So we offer another drink for under 20.
  • In case of late arrival, the tour cannot be extended.
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
  • This experience requires good weather.
    If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers.
    If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met,
    you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
  • How it works?
    01 You choose from 10,000+ experience gifts
    02 We deliver the eVoucher or the Physical box to the recipient
    03 Recipient books the experience and creates unforgettable memories!

    Explore Matsumoto: Castle, Sake & Taste of Local Life

    Location Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
    Location Nagano, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
    $225.90
    This is an experience gift voucher. The recipient will book the experience after they redeem the gift voucher.
    How it works?
    01 You choose from 10,000+ experience gifts
    02 We deliver the eVoucher or the Physical box to the recipient
    03 Recipient books the experience and creates unforgettable memories!
    Delivery options
    eVoucher
    • Free
    • Instant delivery
    • Environmentally friendly
    Physical Gift Box
    • $10.00 fee
    • 2-5 business days
    • Shipping Worldwide

    No expiration date
    Easy refund
    Free exchange
    Easy booking
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