Matsumoto , Japan

Heritage Walk of Matsumoto

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Fed by pure spring water, Matsumoto is a city where the nature of the Northern Alps, refined craft traditions, and the quiet dignity of an old castle town come together in harmony. This gentle walking route from Matsumoto Castle to Yohashira Shrine, then onward to Nakamachi Street and Nawate Street, offers an unhurried immersion into landscapes shaped by history and aesthetics. Visits to a long-established sake brewery and a famous local spring invite you to taste the flavors born from Matsumoto’s exceptional water—a refined urban stroll that reveals the city’s true character.

Available options

Heritage Walk of Matsumoto

What's included

Guide fee

insurance

sake tasting

Matsumoto Castle admission

snacks

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

Meet your dedicated guide at the meeting point for sign-up and tour orientation (5 minutes)

Tour starts. Head to Matsumoto Castle, a National Treasure, and take a commemorative photo with the jet-black keep as your backdrop. Feel the weight of history stretching back to the Sengoku period.

Stroll through Nawate shopping street. Enjoy exchanges with local artisans and merchants in a streetscape that honors history while maintaining a playful spirit.

Visit and pray at Shihashira Shrine. Surrounded by a serene atmosphere, receive a lecture on Matsumoto's faith culture and the town's spiritual essence.

Visit the historic sake brewery, Zenzai Sake Brewery. Tour the natural spring source and experience how snowmelt from the Northern Japanese Alps cultivates the delicate flavors of sake.

Arrive at Genchi no Ido (Genchi Well). Reach out to the clear spring water and quietly come to understand why this town has lived in harmony with nature.

Stroll through Nakamachi Street. Feel Matsumoto's aesthetic sensibility and artisan culture in a space where traditional white-walled storehouses coexist with contemporary craft shops.
Rest at a café. Deepen your insights and learnings from the journey through dialogue with your guide.

GOAL. Carrying with you an experience where Matsumoto's aesthetics and philosophy of nature are integrated.

What's not included

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

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

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The guide will be waiting for you at the ticket gates of Matsumoto Station holding a signboard.

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.