Matsumoto is a city that punches above its weight when it comes to cultural sights, historic landmarks, and natural beauty. Unlike some touristy spots that feel like they’ve been commercialized to death, Matsumoto keeps its authentic charm intact, making it a fantastic place to explore through guided tours. Whether you’re interested in feudal castles, samurai sword fighting, or scenic mountain hikes, the city offers a variety of options. We’re particularly fond of the $1, which combines the awe of Japan’s original feudal fortress with a hands-on samurai sword lesson—talk about immersive history.
If you’re short on time but want a good taste of Matsumoto’s art, shopping, and local flavor, the $1 is a perfect pick. Want to explore beyond the city? The $1 offers a stunning mountain adventure paired with the history of Japan’s treasured castle. Whatever your interests or schedule, this list will help you find a memorable tour that fits your needs.
1. Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience
Rating: 4.9/5 (82 reviews)
Price: $91 per person
Duration: 3 hours
If you want to live out your samurai fantasy while visiting Matsumoto Castle, this is the tour for you. It starts with a comprehensive exploration of Matsumoto’s most famous landmark, a castle built in 1594 that’s often called the “Crow Castle” because of its dark exterior. The tour then transitions into an interactive samurai experience, where you can learn about the traditional Katana sword techniques with a professional instructor. Tour guide Matt and others rave about the knowledgeable guides and the well-organized classes, which make the experience feel both authentic and fun.
Highlights include:
– Walking through the castle grounds and learning its strategic design
– Hands-on Katana sword training with a master
– Stories about samurai lifestyle and feudal Japan
This tour offers a rich, tactile way to understand the samurai culture that still influences Japan today. It’s perfect for history buffs or anyone wanting a memorable, active experience. With warm reviews praising the guides’ friendliness and expertise, it ranks high on value and authenticity.
Bottom Line: A superb choice if you want to combine castle history with a practical samurai lesson in a friendly, well-organized setting.
2. Matsumoto Discovery – Half Day Walking Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (39 reviews)
Price: $63.91 per person
Duration: Approx. 3 hours
For around $64, this half-day tour offers a flexible way to see Matsumoto’s top sights with a licensed local guide. You can customize the stops to include the famous Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, and the Japan Ukiyoe Museum—covering art, architecture, and local culture. Tour guides like Tom and Shin are praised for their detailed knowledge and personal touches that make the city’s stories come alive.
Highlights include:
– Walking through the Nawate Shopping District, with its frog-themed shops and street snacks
– Exploring Nakamachi Street, with traditional storehouses and crafts
– Optional visits to Daio Wasabi Farm just outside the city
This tour is particularly suited for travelers who prefer a personalized experience and want to explore at their own pace. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the guide can tailor the experience based on your interests.
Bottom Line: A great pick for those wanting a deep, flexible introduction to Matsumoto’s modern and traditional sides.
3. Matsumoto Castle Town Walking Tour
Rating: 4.8/5 (34 reviews)
Price: $66 per person
This guided walking tour focuses on the historic districts surrounding Matsumoto Castle. You’ll follow the footsteps of samurai and explore charming streets filled with old wooden buildings, shops, and cafes. The guide will share stories of the castle’s significance and its role in Japanese history.
Highlights include:
– Inside the castle grounds, including insights into its architecture
– A stroll through the Nawate Shopping District and Nakamachi Street, famed for Kura storehouses
– An overview of local life and the city’s heritage
Ideal for travelers who want a balanced tour that combines history, architecture, and local culture in a manageable timeframe. It’s a straightforward way to get a feel for the city’s authentic charm.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want to learn about Matsumoto’s historic core with a knowledgeable guide.
4. eTour de Matsumoto – Private Electric Bike Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (14 reviews)
Price: $99.62 per person
Duration: About 4 hours
For those who love cycling and outdoor scenery, this private electric bike tour unlocks a different side of Matsumoto. The guide takes you through countryside fields, historic shrines, and hot springs like Asama-Onsen, offering a relaxed yet active day. Highlights include visiting Fukashi Shrine, exploring Susuki-gawa River, and soaking in natural hot springs.
Guests rave about the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to discover hidden spots outside the city. The electric bikes make it accessible for all fitness levels, and the trip includes stops at local attractions like the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum.
Highlights:
– Scenic ride through plains and rice fields
– Learning about local shrine traditions
– Relaxing at hot springs and enjoying rural landscapes
This tour suits travelers wanting an off-the-beaten-path day with comfortable cycling. It’s well-suited for those seeking a combination of nature, culture, and leisure.
Bottom Line: Excellent for active travelers eager to see Matsumoto’s countryside with a knowledgeable guide.
5. From Matsumoto/Nagano: Nakasendo Trail Walking Tour
Rating: 4.8/5 (24 reviews)
Price: $206 per person
Duration: Full day
This full-day guided hike along the historic Nakasendo Trail takes you through rural Kiso Valley from Tsumago to Magome. It’s ideal for walkers who want to experience Japan’s ancient highway with stunning scenery, including waterfalls, restored post towns, and mountain views. The tour includes roundtrip transportation from Matsumoto or Nagano, making it a hassle-free way to explore Japan’s traditional routes.
Highlights include:
– Walking 8 km through picturesque villages with 100-year-old houses
– Visiting Tsumago-juku with its well-preserved historic buildings
– Stopping at Magome for a local lunch and souvenirs
Perfect for moderate hikers or anyone craving a day immersed in Japan’s historic countryside. The guide’s insights add depth, especially when discussing the region’s culture and scenes along the way.
Bottom Line: A must-do for walkers interested in history and scenic mountain trails.
6. Explore Matsumoto: Castle, Sake & Taste of Local Life
Rating: 5.0/5 (6 reviews)
Price: $113.67 per person
Duration: 3-5 hours
This experience combines a visit to Matsumoto Castle with a hands-on sake brewery tour, giving you a taste of local traditions and flavors. You’ll skip the long lines with included admission, explore the castle’s grounds, and then head to a local sake brewery for tastings and insights into the rice wine-making process. Along the way, enjoy street snacks like Taiyaki and Takoyaki.
Highlights:
– Walking through the castle and learning about its architecture
– Sampling sake at a centuries-old brewery
– Exploring local food stalls and shopping streets
This tour is ideal for foodies and culture lovers who want a relaxed, authentic experience of Matsumoto’s culinary scene. The photographs provided after the tour help preserve your memories.
Bottom Line: A delightful mix of heritage, gastronomy, and local life that’s perfect for those wanting a taste of Matsumoto’s culinary traditions.
7. Handmade Soba Making & Fresh Wasabi Lunch
Rating: 5.0/5 (4 reviews)
Price: $89.61 per person
Duration: 1.5 hours
For lovers of Japanese cuisine, this hands-on soba noodle making experience is a real treat. Matsumoto has a long tradition of buckwheat cultivation, and here you’ll learn how to prepare soba from scratch with a master. Afterwards, enjoy a fresh wasabi lunch—a regional specialty. The class is suitable for all skill levels, and you’ll get to taste your own noodles in various ways.
Highlights:
– Making soba noodles by hand with expert guidance
– Sampling freshly made soba hot and cold, with side dishes
– Learning about the regional importance of wasabi and soba
This experience is ideal for culinary adventurers and anyone curious about Japanese food traditions. It’s a fun way to take home a skill and a taste of Matsumoto.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies seeking an interactive, authentic meal experience.
8. Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle: A Perfect Nature & Heritage Day
Rating: 5.0/5 (4 reviews)
Price: $214.51 per person
Duration: About 8 hours
This full-day trip combines the stunning natural beauty of Kamikochi with the historic splendor of Matsumoto Castle. Starting early, you’ll journey to Kamikochi, where your guide leads a scenic walk along rivers and through alpine forests, with chances to spot wildlife and take photos. Afterward, you’ll visit Matsumoto Castle, explore its interiors, and stroll around the historic streets.
Highlights:
– A scenic hike from Kappa Bridge to Taisho Pond
– Learning about Kamikochi’s natural environment and history
– Free time to explore the castle and surrounding old town
This tour offers a balanced mix of nature and heritage—great for those who want a full day of diverse experiences in Japan’s mountains and castles.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a full immersion into mountain scenery and historic sites.
9. Matsumoto Castle Tour & Soba Noodle Experience
Rating: 4.5/5 (15 reviews)
Price: $97.49 per person
Duration: Around 3 hours
This tour pairs a visit to Matsumoto Castle with a hands-on soba noodle making workshop—a perfect combo for fans of history and food. You’ll start by exploring the castle, famously called the “Crow Castle,” then learn how to prepare authentic soba noodles from a master. The experience ends with tasting your own creations, making it a memorable way to connect with Japanese culinary tradition.
Highlights:
– Tour of the castle’s impressive grounds and interiors
– Learning soba-making techniques from an expert
– Sampling the earthy flavors of regional soba in different styles
Reviews mention how helpful and friendly the guides are, and how the experience makes Japanese culture tangible. It’s an excellent choice for families and culinary explorers.
Bottom Line: A delightful mix of cultural sightseeing and hands-on cooking that appeals to many.
10. Matsumoto: Castle and Samurai Sword Fighting Night Tour
Rating: 5/5 (3 reviews)
Price: $97 per person
Duration: 3 hours
Experience Japan’s samurai heritage during this night tour, which includes a guided visit to Matsumoto Castle lit up in the evening. The highlight is the sword-fighting workshop, where you’ll learn basic samurai techniques in a lively, interactive setting. Guides share fascinating stories behind the castle’s history and samurai culture, all under the glow of lights.
Highlights:
– Exploring Matsumoto Castle’s exterior at night
– Participating in samurai sword fighting with a trained instructor
– Learning about the cultural significance of the samurai era
This tour is perfect if you love history, action, or both. The reviews note the enthusiastic guide and the fun, engaging atmosphere. It’s a unique experience you won’t find elsewhere.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in Japanese martial traditions and nighttime castle sights.
11. Matsumoto Castle Tour & Soba Noodle Making Workshop
Rating: 5/5 (3 reviews)
Price: $96 per person
Duration: 3 hours
If you’re keen on both castle history and culinary arts, this tour offers the best of both worlds. Start with the tour of Matsumoto Castle, then roll up your sleeves to make soba noodles with a master. You’ll learn about traditional techniques and enjoy eating your own handmade noodles afterward. It’s a fun, interactive way to understand a major part of Japanese cuisine.
Highlights:
– Visiting one of Japan’s most complete castles
– Participating in a soba-making workshop with a professional
– Enjoying your own soba paired with local sides
Reviews mention it’s a great family activity and a memorable way to connect with Japan’s food culture. Suitable for those wanting an immersive, hands-on experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for culinary curious travelers wanting practical skills and cultural insights.
12. Matsumoto Discovery – Customizable Private Tour
Rating: 5/5 (3 reviews)
Price: $570.50 per group (up to 4)
Duration: 2-8 hours
Looking for a flexible, personalized experience? This full-day private tour tailors your itinerary to your specific interests. Whether you want to focus on historic sites, local art, or food, your guide will craft a unique adventure. Possible stops include Kasamori Inari Shrine, Matsumoto Castle, and local markets or galleries. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple.
Highlights:
– Fully customized to your preferences
– Exploring hidden spots and well-known landmarks
– Learning about Matsumoto’s culture from a dedicated guide
Ideal for travelers who want an intimate, tailored experience that covers exactly what interests them. It’s a bit pricier but offers unparalleled flexibility and personalization.
Bottom Line: Best suited for independent-minded travelers seeking a bespoke tour experience.
13. Nagano / Matsumoto / Takayama: Kamikochi Private Tour
Rating: 5/5 (2 reviews)
Price: $143 per person
Duration: Customizable
This private day trip to Kamikochi combines mountain scenery, wildlife viewing, and cultural insights. Starting from Matsumoto or Nagano, you’ll walk serene trails with your guide, crossing scenic bridges and enjoying top-quality photo opportunities. The trip is perfect for those wanting a quiet escape into nature while still experiencing a piece of Japan’s alpine beauty.
Highlights:
– Guided walks through Kamikochi’s pristine environment
– Spotting Japanese serow, monkeys, and other wildlife
– Learning about Kamikochi’s ecological importance
It’s ideal for nature lovers who want a peaceful, guided experience with personalized attention.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing mountain day with a private guide.
14. JDM Night Tour Daikoku PA with Japanese Local Guide by Lux Van
Rating: 5/5 (2 reviews)
Price: $260.60 per group (up to 5)
Duration: 3-4 hours
For car enthusiasts, this night tour from Tokyo to Yokohama is a must-do. It features a visit to the famous Daikoku PA car meet-up, where you can see and photograph JDM cars and meet passionate owners. The experience includes cruising the Metropolitan Expressway, passing Rainbow Bridge, and soaking in the car culture scene. The guide shares stories and insights about Japanese street racing and car modifications.
Highlights:
– Photos with JDM cars at Daikoku PA
– Scenic metropolitan expressway drives
– Meeting local car owners and learning about their passion
This tour is suited to automotive fans or adventure travelers interested in modern culture and nightlife. It’s a rare chance to see Japan’s car scene up close.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a unique, high-energy experience beyond traditional sightseeing.
15. Matsumoto Private Customizable Full Day Tour
Rating: 5/5 (1 review)
Price: $241.40 per person
Duration: About 8 hours
This fully flexible private day tour lets you pick from over 15 attractions, from hot springs and shrines to museums and local eateries. Whether you want to visit Hotaka Shrine, explore art galleries, or try local sake, your guide will craft an itinerary suited to your interests. It’s the best way to maximize your time and see hidden corners most visitors miss.
Highlights:
– Tailored itinerary based on your preferences
– Visit wasabi farms, buddhist temples, or local markets
– Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off
Ideal for travelers who want complete control over their day and prefer a personalized approach. This tour is perfect for families, couples, or groups with specific interests.
Bottom Line: The ultimate customizable experience for those who want to shape their own discovery of Matsumoto.
$241.40 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Matsumoto
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If you want a deep dive into samurai culture, the Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience is hard to beat. For a more relaxed, flexible overview of the city, the Half Day Walking Tour offers excellent value. Planning to explore the mountains? The Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle trip is ideal. If food and drink appeal to you, consider the Sake & Local Life tour or the Soba Making experience. Fancy a private, tailored day? The Full Day Private Tour will make you feel like a local host.
Remember to book early, especially for popular experiences like the Samurai Tour or the Private Custom Tours. Also, consider seasonality—spring and autumn offer the best scenery, while winter brings snowy landscapes and hot springs.
Final Thoughts
Matsumoto offers a surprising range of tours and experiences that cater to history lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, and culture seekers alike. For a classic highlight, the Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience provides a perfect mix of history and hands-on fun. Those wanting a scenic mountain escape should consider the Kamikochi & Castle day, while culinary travelers will enjoy the Sake & Soba workshops.
If you’re after customization, the Private Tours allow you to craft a day that fits your exact interests. Whichever you choose, early booking is wise to secure the best times and guides. These tours reveal the real Matsumoto—beyond the postcards—and turn your visit into a truly memorable adventure.