Matsumoto: Castle Keep Highlights Express Walk

Matsumoto , Japan

Matsumoto: Castle Keep Highlights Express Walk

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About this experience

Matsumoto Castle stands as a testament to Japan’s architectural brilliance, with its iconic black façade and rich history. This guided tour provides an in-depth exploration of the castle, revealing its intricate design and the stories woven into its walls. Visitors will delve into the Honmaru area to discover the castle's defensive strategies and craftsmanship, while local legends breathe life into the experience. The journey culminates in breathtaking views from the main keep, intertwining architectural marvels with cultural significance. Perfect for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike, this tour offers a unique lens into the past.

- Explore Matsumoto Castle’s architectural details and history
- Learn about local legends and engineering innovations
- Experience stunning views from the top of the main keep
- Ideal for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike

Available options

Matsumoto: Castle Keep Highlights Express Walk

What's included

Guided tour of Matsumoto Castle

Detailed itinerary

Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan’s most iconic original castles and a National Treasure famous for its dramatic black exterior, beautiful moat scenery, and remarkably well-preserved wooden keep. Beyond its striking appearance, the castle offers a deeper story through its connected keep system and the details hidden inside the Honmaru grounds, where legends, stonework, and architectural ingenuity come together. Walking through the towers and reaching the top floor reveals both the power of the fortress and the refined craftsmanship that shaped it.

What's not included

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Please meet your guide in front of FamilyMart Matsumoto Castle-mae. Your guide will be waiting with a yellow sign. Please check the map for details.

About Matsumoto

Matsumoto is a charming city in Nagano Prefecture, known for its well-preserved Edo-period castle, the Matsumoto Castle, and its picturesque setting surrounded by mountains. The city offers a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and modern attractions, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking both culture and outdoor activities.

Top Attractions

Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto Castle, also known as the Crow Castle, is one of Japan's most iconic and well-preserved castles. Built in the late 16th century, it offers stunning architecture and panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥610

Nakamachi Street

Nakamachi Street is a charming, tree-lined street with well-preserved Edo-period merchant houses. Today, it's a bustling area filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a mix of traditional and modern experiences.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore (costs vary for shopping and dining)

Kaichi School

Kaichi School is Japan's oldest modern school, founded in 1873. It has been preserved as a museum, showcasing the history of education in Japan and offering a glimpse into the past.

Historical 30-60 minutes ¥500

Matsumoto City Museum of Art

This museum features a diverse collection of contemporary and traditional Japanese art, including works by local and international artists. The building itself is an architectural gem, designed by renowned architect Ryue Nishizawa.

Cultural 1-2 hours ¥1,000

Mount Yari

Mount Yari is a stunning mountain located near Matsumoto, known for its distinctive rocky peak and beautiful hiking trails. The mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps and is a popular spot for hiking and nature lovers.

Nature Full day (hiking) Free (parking fees may apply)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Matsumoto Ramen

A local ramen variety featuring a rich, soy-based broth, thin noodles, and toppings like chashu pork, green onions, and a soft-boiled egg.

Lunch/Dinner Contains gluten, pork

Soba Noodles

Buckwheat noodles served hot or cold, often with a dipping sauce or in a broth. A traditional Japanese dish with a unique, nutty flavor.

Lunch/Dinner Gluten-free (if made with 100% buckwheat flour), vegan options available

Hida Beef

A high-quality, melt-in-your-mouth beef from the Hida region, often served as sushi, steak, or hot pot. Known for its tenderness and marbling.

Dinner Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Northern Alps Skiing and snowboarding in Shiga Kogen Mountain biking and cycling Visiting hot springs and onsens Strolling through parks and gardens Enjoying local cuisine and dining Visiting Matsumoto Castle and other historic sites Exploring Nakamachi Street and local shops

Best Time to Visit

April to May, October to November

These months offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. Tourist attractions are in full swing, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Matsumoto is a very safe city with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime, such as pickpocketing or theft, is uncommon. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.
• Use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps to avoid overcharging.
• Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette to avoid unintentionally offending locals or drawing unwanted attention.

Getting there

By air

Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport • 150 km
Nagano Airport • 40 km

By train

Matsumoto Station

By bus

Matsumoto Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around, especially for tourists.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Matsumoto Asamizu Park Higashimatsumoto

Day trips

Togakushi

20 km from Matsumoto • Half day to full day

Togakushi is a picturesque village nestled in the mountains, known for its beautiful shrines, hiking trails, and traditional thatched-roof houses. The area is also famous for its Togakushi shrine, one of the most important shrines in Japan.

Shiga Kogen

40 km from Matsumoto • Full day or overnight

Shiga Kogen is a stunning mountainous area known for its hot springs, hiking trails, and skiing opportunities. The area is part of the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps.

Azumino

30 km from Matsumoto • Half day to full day

Azumino is a charming town known for its beautiful cherry blossoms, historic sites, and traditional crafts. The town is also home to the famous Kamikochi hiking area, offering stunning views of the Northern Alps.

Festivals

Matsumoto Cherry Blossom Festival • Early April Autumn Colors Festival • Mid to late November Matsumoto Summer Festival • Early August

Pro tips

Visit Matsumoto Castle early in the morning to see it in the mist, creating a magical and photogenic atmosphere.
Combine your visit to Matsumoto Castle with a stroll through the nearby Nakamachi Street for shopping, dining, and exploring the historic architecture.
Try local specialties like Matsumoto ramen, soba noodles, and Hida beef at the city's many restaurants and eateries.
Explore the city's natural beauty by visiting Asamizu Park, a beautiful green space with scenic views of Matsumoto Castle and the surrounding mountains.
Consider staying in a traditional ryokan for a unique cultural experience, complete with onsen baths and traditional Japanese cuisine.