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Matsumoto Everything Tour: Castle, Miso, Wasabi, Wine & Ukiyo-e
Matsumoto Everything: Castle, Miso, Wasabi, Wine & Ukiyo-e
Explore the best of Matsumoto on this full-day cultural tour of heritage, food, nature, and art. Visit the iconic Matsumoto Castle, tour a miso brewery with an authentic onigiri lunch, and walk through Japan’s largest wasabi farm. Taste Japanese wine in scenic vineyards and end the day at the Ukiyo-e Museum with its world-class woodblock prints.
🚐 Start from Nagano (8:00 AM) or Matsumoto (9:30 AM) —pickup and drop-off available at both stations.
✅ Visit Matsumoto Castle – an original wooden fortress
✅ Tour a miso brewery & enjoy onigiri lunch
✅ Stroll Japan’s largest wasabi farm & taste treats
✅ Taste local wine in scenic countryside vineyards
✅ Explore the Ukiyo-e Museum’s print collection
✅ Start/finish at Nagano or Matsumoto (Luggage OK—please advise at booking.)
✅ Guided in English by a local expert (small group)
1️⃣ Explore the Iconic Matsumoto Castle
Step into samurai history at one of Japan’s most striking original castles.
Admire the black-walled “Crow Castle” and learn how its clever design shaped local legends.
Enjoy one of Japan’s most iconic castles.
Learn about its samurai-era design and legends, then take your time to explore and snap photos inside.
2️⃣ Discover the Craft of Traditional Miso
Visit a 150-year-old miso brewery and join a short insider tour with the local makers.
Learn how miso is fermented using time-honored techniques—and taste the deep, umami-rich results.
Enjoy a handmade onigiri lunch with miso soup: simple, hearty, and truly local.
3️⃣ Stroll Japan’s Largest Wasabi Farm
Wander scenic paths through Daio Wasabi Farm, flowing with clear spring water.
Shop for fresh wasabi and unique gifts, or try treats like wasabi croquettes and soft-serve.
Don’t forget to snap photos of the iconic waterwheels and green fields.
4️⃣ Taste Japanese Wine in Scenic Vineyards
Stop at a peaceful vineyard in Azumino for a tasting of locally crafted Japanese wines.
Surrounded by mountains and farmland, it’s a quiet countryside escape rarely seen by travelers.
5️⃣ Explore the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum
Wrap up your day with a visit to the world’s largest private ukiyo-e print collection.
View timeless works by masters like Hokusai and Hiroshige in a serene setting.
Note: Closed on Mondays and substitute holidays.
🤝 Personalized Local Experience
Led by a passionate local guide, this tour blends historical insight with cultural depth.
Whether you’re into food, art, stories, or photography, we’ll help you connect with Matsumoto in a meaningful way.
🍱 What’s Included
✅ Guided walk & entry to Matsumoto Castle
✅ Tour of a traditional miso brewery + onigiri lunch
✅ Free time at Daio Wasabi Farm
✅ Wine tasting at a local countryside vineyard
✅ Entry to the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum
✅ Transportation from/to Nagano or Matsumoto Station
✅ English-speaking guide (small-group format)
📸 Why Join This Tour?
This isn’t just a sightseeing tour—it’s a journey into the heart of central Japan.
From legendary castles to miso-making and scenic vineyards, it’s a rare cultural mix you won’t forget.
Ideal for travelers seeking authenticity, flavor, and story-rich experiences.
💡 Important Information
📍 Pickup Points:
- Nagano Station – 8:10 AM
Location: In front of Beck’s Coffee (inside station, just outside the Shinkansen gates) - Matsumoto Station – 9:30 AM
Location: Outside the Alps (West) Exit – look for our light yellow Toyota van
👥 Group Size: 2–12 guests
🥢 Lunch: Miso onigiri set (vegetarian-friendly)
🍷 Age Restriction: Wine tasting available for guests 20+
🌦 Weather: Tour runs rain or shine
💴 Extras: Bring yen for souvenirs/snacks at Daio Wasabi Farm
- Photo Friendly
- 6.5 to 8.5 Hours
- 2 to 12 People
- All weather
Trip Itinerary
08:00 – Depart from Nagano Station
Meet your guide in front of Beck’s Coffee, just outside the Shinkansen gates.
09:30 – Pickup at Matsumoto Station
Your guide will meet you at the Alps (West) Exit – look out for our light yellow Toyota van.
9:45–10:45 – Explore Matsumoto Castle
Enjoy a fully guided tour of one of Japan’s most iconic castles.
Learn about its samurai-era design and legends, then take your time to explore and snap photos inside.
11:00–12:00 – Visit Ishii Miso Brewery
Take a guided tour of a 150-year-old miso brewery and enjoy a traditional lunch of miso soup and handmade onigiri.
12:30–13:15 – Daio Wasabi Farm Walk
Wander through the lush grounds of Japan’s largest wasabi farm. You’ll have free time to explore, shop, or purchase optional snacks like wasabi soft-serve or croquettes.
13:45–14:30 – Wine Tasting at Azumino Winery
Enjoy a relaxed tasting of locally made Japanese wine while taking in views of the surrounding vineyards and mountain landscape. Feel free to stroll the grounds or browse the cozy winery shop.
14:50–15:35 – Visit Japan Ukiyo-e Museum
Explore timeless woodblock prints by masters like Hokusai and Hiroshige at the world’s largest private ukiyo-e collection.
15:45 – Drop-off at Matsumoto Station
This is the final stop for guests who joined from Matsumoto.
Guests who started from Nagano may also choose to end their tour in Matsumoto if staying locally.
17:00 – Return to Nagano Station
Return to Nagano Station (drop-off for Nagano starters and also available for Matsumoto starters).
Have a Question?
Contact us via email or WhatsApp. Please note that WhatsApp is only used for simple availability checks and post-booking communication.
¥25,800 (Adult+10)
✅ Free cancellation until 24h (local time)*
* A small processing fee may apply.
This tour offers two convenient pickup & drop-off locations:
Nagano Station at 08:00 AM – Meet your guide in front of Beck’s Coffee, just outside the Shinkansen gates.
Matsumoto Station at 09:30 AM – Meet outside the Alps West Exit, near the taxi stand.
Luggage OK—please advise at booking.
Info
🕒 Duration: 8.5 hrs (Nagano) / 6.25 hrs (Matsumoto)
👥 Group size: 2–12 guests
💴 Price: ¥25,800 (ages 10+), ¥18,800 (ages 3–9), Infants (0–2) free – no seat or meal included
✅ Includes:
🏯 Guided visit + entry to Matsumoto Castle
🍙 Miso brewery tour with onigiri & miso soup lunch
🌿 Free time at Daio Wasabi Farm
🍷 Japanese wine tasting in scenic vineyards
🖼️ Entry to Japan Ukiyo-e Museum
🗣️ English-speaking local guide
🚐 Round-trip transportation from either Nagano or Matsumoto Station
❌ Excludes:
🍧 Additional food & drinks (e.g. wasabi soft-serve, croquettes)
🚄 Bullet train tickets or travel before/after the tour
📍 Meeting Points:
- Nagano Station – 8:00 AM
Location: In front of Beck’s Coffee (inside station, just outside the Shinkansen gates) Matsumoto Station – 9:30 AM
Location: Outside the Alps (West) Exit – look for our light yellow Toyota van
- Nagano Station – 8:00 AM
Why Choose Our Matsumoto Everything Tour?
🧑🤝🧑 Exclusivity & Personal Attention
This full-day experience is designed for travelers who value depth, relaxed pacing, and genuine connection.
With just 2–12 guests per tour, you’ll enjoy a smooth, intimate journey led by a local guide who shares more than just facts — they share personal stories and local color. Perfect for both first-timers and seasoned Japan explorers.
🏯 A Rich, Multi-Sensory Journey
Step inside one of Japan’s few remaining original castles, Matsumoto Castle, and learn about its samurai legacy.
Then taste and feel Nagano’s culture: enjoy a rustic miso lunch at a 150-year-old brewery, wander Japan’s largest wasabi farm, and sip wine surrounded by mountain vineyards.
You’ll also visit the world-class Ukiyo-e Museum — home to works by Hokusai and Hiroshige.
🍱 A True Taste of Local Life
This tour moves at a human pace. You’ll meet real artisans, walk scenic farm paths, and explore small-town life in Matsumoto and Azumino.
It’s not about ticking boxes — it’s about connecting with the food, history, and quiet charm of Nagano’s countryside.
📸 Capture the Moments
From the striking black walls of Matsumoto Castle to the wooden waterwheels of the wasabi fields, we’ll guide you to the most scenic photo spots.
But more than snapshots, you’ll collect memories — stories, smiles, and the kind of insights that stay with you long after the tour ends.
Who Will Love This Tour?
🚐 Effortless Exploration — No Trains, No Transfers
Start directly from either Nagano or Matsumoto Station — no need to navigate local buses or change trains.
With private transportation between all locations, you’ll enjoy a seamless journey through castle towns, mountain farms, and scenic vineyards.
🏯 A Window into Samurai & Rural Japan
Perfect for those seeking more than temples or cities, this tour introduces you to the legacy of Matsumoto’s samurai, the flavor of its miso traditions, and the quiet beauty of rural Azumino.
It’s a glimpse into a less-traveled, deeply authentic side of Japan.
🧳 Ideal for Travelers with Flexible Plans
Whether you’re continuing to Takayama, hopping on the Shinkansen, or staying overnight, the tour ends in either Matsumoto or Nagano — whichever suits your next move best.
We’ve designed it to fit smoothly into a variety of travel routes.
👟 Comfortable, Small-Group Travel
With 2–12 guests per group and no rush, you’ll enjoy a relaxed pace and personal interaction.
It’s great for couples, friends, or even families looking for a culturally rich day out — minus the tourist crowds.
Q&A
Q: Where is the meeting point?
A:
You can start and end your tour at either station – pickup & drop-off are available at both.
Nagano Station – 8:10 AM
Meeting Point: In front of Beck’s Coffee (inside the station, just outside the Shinkansen gates)Matsumoto Station – 9:30 AM
Meeting Point: Outside the Alps (West) Exit – look for our light yellow Toyota van
Q: Can I join even if I’m coming from Tokyo or elsewhere?
A:
Yes! Both Nagano and Matsumoto are easily reachable:
From Tokyo to Nagano: Hokuriku Shinkansen (~90 min)
From Tokyo to Matsumoto: Azusa Limited Express (~2.5 hrs)
We’re happy to recommend train routes that match your tour schedule.
Q: How long is the tour?
A:
From Nagano: Approximately 8.5 hours (8:10 AM – ~4:45 PM)
From Matsumoto: Approximately 6.25 hours (9:30 AM – ~3:45 PM)
Includes guided visits, transport, and free time at some stops.
Q: Where does the tour end?
A:
You’ll be dropped off at either Matsumoto Station or Nagano Station, depending on your departure point.
This makes it easy to continue your travels toward Takayama, Tokyo, or other destinations.
Q: Is it better to stay overnight in Matsumoto?
A:
It’s a great idea! Matsumoto offers beautiful evening strolls, great local dining, and relaxed hotels.
Staying overnight also allows a smooth start if you choose the Matsumoto departure.
Q: What if it rains?
A:
The tour runs rain or shine. Some parts are indoors, and others (like the wasabi farm) remain beautiful even in wet weather. Please bring an umbrella or rain gear just in case.
Q: Can I bring luggage with me?
A:
Yes — we have space for suitcases in the vehicle.
Just let us know in advance so we can prepare accordingly.
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