Matsumoto is a fantastic city for walking tours because it combines rich history, striking architecture, and lively street scenes that are best appreciated on foot. Whether you’re marveling at the ancient Matsumoto Castle or exploring traditional shopping streets, the city offers plenty of opportunities to experience genuine local flavor. We especially like the Matsumoto Discovery – Half Day Walking Tour because it offers flexible, personalized visits to key attractions, led by a licensed local guide who can tailor your experience. This tour is perfect if you want an in-depth look at Matsumoto’s feudal past and modern arts scene. For example, visiting the Matsumoto Castle and the Matsumoto City Museum of Art provides a comprehensive snapshot of the city’s cultural fabric, and the option to add the Daio Wasabi Farm makes it a well-rounded experience.
If you prefer a more casual, crowds-free exploration, the Matsumoto Castle Town Walking Tour is a wonderful choice, focusing on the castle, historic districts, and local neighborhoods. And for those interested in combining outdoor activity with cultural discovery, the From Matsumoto/Nagano: Nakasendo Trail Walking Tour takes you through scenic mountain paths, blending nature, history, and traditional villages.
Below, you’ll find detailed breakdowns of each of the best walking tours in Matsumoto, helping you choose the best fit for your trip.
1. Matsumoto Discovery – Half Day Walking Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Matsumoto Discovery – Half Day Walking Tour is a favorite for its highly personalized approach. With a 5.0/5 rating from 39 reviews, this tour offers an expertly guided look at Matsumoto’s top sights in just a few hours. You’ll have a local guide with a National Government License, ensuring deep insights into the city’s feudal history, arts, and local customs.
The tour is customizable, so you can select highlights like Matsumoto Castle, Japan’s oldest castle donjon, or the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, home to works by Yayoi Kusama. Beyond the castle, the tour often includes stops at the Nawate Shopping District, known for its frog-themed shops and cozy cafes, and Nakamachi Street, where traditional storehouses line the streets. The tour can also include a visit to the nearby Daio Wasabi Farm, offering a glimpse into local agriculture and scenery [].
Guests love the flexibility and personalized attention. One reviewer raved, “Tom tailored the trip perfectly to my interests and shared so much knowledge about the city’s stories and local life.” The price of around $64 makes it a good value considering the ability to customize and the level of expertise.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-timers and those wanting a tailored, in-depth tour with a local guide.
2. Matsumoto Castle Town Walking Tour
Ranked closely behind, the Matsumoto Castle Town Walking Tour scores a 4.8/5 from 34 reviews. For approximately $66, this tour offers a guided exploration of Matsumoto’s historic district, focusing on the castle, Nakamachi Street, and the Nawate Shopping District.
This guided walk is ideal if you want to follow the footsteps of samurai and explore well-preserved traditional architecture. The tour emphasizes the castle’s significance as a National Treasure and its surroundings, including the charming old streets and local artisan shops [].
Guests mention how engaging the guide was in sharing stories about the castle’s construction and the local samurai, making history accessible. The tour is suited for visitors who want a focused, culturally rich experience without the hassle of planning individual visits, perfect for a half-day outing.
Bottom Line: Great for history and architecture lovers wanting an efficient, guided experience of Matsumoto’s main sights.
3. From Matsumoto/Nagano: Nakasendo Trail Walking Tour
The Nakasendo Trail Walking Tour ranks at number 3, rated 4.8/5 from 24 reviews. For about $206, this full-day excursion offers a chance to walk one of Japan’s most famous ancient highways. It’s ideal if you’re craving nature, history, and scenic villages.
The tour includes transportation from Matsumoto or Nagano and takes you along the beautiful rural trails of the Kiso Valley. You’ll enjoy an 8-km hike from Magome to Tsumago, passing through restored post towns that exude a quiet, traditional charm. Along the way, you’ll experience rural farmhouses, waterfalls, and the sound of nature, with a guided tour of Tsumago’s well-preserved streets and historic sites.
This tour stands out for its moderate hiking, which is accessible but engaging, and for the opportunity to see restored wooden houses and learn stories about Japan’s old postal routes. Reviews mention the guide’s knowledge and how the hike was paced perfectly, with many appreciating the scenic vistas and cultural insights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers with an interest in scenic hikes and traditional villages, with a full-day commitment.
4. Matsumoto Sake Tasting Walking Tour
Number 4 is the Matsumoto Sake Tasting Walking Tour, rated 5.0/5 from 1 review. For just under $71, you can enjoy a delightful two-hour journey through Matsumoto’s historic sake breweries and local streets.
This tour begins at Matsumoto Station and includes visits to Nakamachi Street, where you’ll see well-preserved merchant houses from the Edo period. The highlight is the visit to a historic sake brewery, run by friendly owners, where you’ll taste different types of local sake and learn about the brewing process. The tour also includes a stop at Nawate Street, known as Frog Street, for some lively shopping and sightseeing.
Guests appreciate the friendly atmosphere and detailed explanations of sake brewing. The tour concludes at Nagano Station. It’s a perfect pick for foodies and culture seekers who want a relaxed, flavorful experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those interested in local food, sake culture, and a relaxed, social atmosphere.
$70.79 per person
5. 1-Day Walking Tour In Matsumoto: Matcha Tea and Local Art
This 1-day tour combines cultural highlights and art appreciation, with a focus on Yayoi Kusama and traditional tea. Priced at $160, it appeals to travelers wanting an immersive day exploring museums, local cafes, and historic sites.
The tour visits the Matsumoto City Museum to learn about local history and features the Yayoi Kusama exhibition at the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, famous for her colorful installations. You’ll also visit Matsumoto Castle and the Kaichi School, both designated National Treasures. The experience includes tasting Matcha and Wagashi at a local café, adding a sensory delight to the day.
Reviews mention how the guide makes the art and history accessible, making it perfect for culture lovers. The pace is leisurely, allowing for personal exploration afterward.
Bottom Line: Great for art enthusiasts and those wanting a balanced mix of history, art, and culinary experience.
$160 per person
6. Full Day Walking Tour in Matsumoto: Matcha Tea and Stunning Art
This full-day tour offers a comprehensive visit to Matsumoto for around $150. It covers the City Museum, Matsumoto Castle, and the Former Kaichi School—all national treasures—plus some hidden art gems.
The guide takes you through historical sites, local neighborhoods, and art spots. The walk is paced comfortably over approximately six and a half hours, making it suitable for travelers with good walking stamina. It’s a great way to get an in-depth snapshot of the city’s cultural landscape.
While there are no reviews listed, the itinerary suggests a well-rounded experience for those interested in history, culture, and local art.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting an immersive, all-encompassing day of sightseeing, especially if you have a full day to spare.
$150.48 per person
7. Private Enoshima and Kamakura Custom Walking Tour
Finally, at number 7, the Private Enoshima and Kamakura Custom Walking Tour offers a 9.5-hour personalized experience from Matsumoto, priced at $365 per person. This is ideal for travelers seeking a customized day trip combining natural scenery and cultural sites.
You’ll start at Enoshima Island, renowned for its shrines, scenic coastlines, and the Bell of Dragon’s Love. After exploring the island, the tour continues to Kamakura, famous for its Great Buddha, temples, and traditional streets. It’s a comprehensive experience blending nature, history, and local tradition, with ample flexibility to focus on your interests.
This tour is best suited for high-end travelers or those wanting a private guide to customize the itinerary, with the advantage of avoiding crowded groups and having a flexible schedule.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those with a larger budget seeking an exclusive, tailored day exploring Japan’s coastal cultural spots.
$365.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Matsumoto Walking Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interest in specific themes, and physical activity levels. For a short, flexible introduction to the city, the Matsumoto Discovery is excellent. If you love history and architecture, the Castle Town Tour hits the mark, while outdoor lovers should look at the Nakasendo Trail Hike for its scenic rural paths.
For a culinary focus, the Sake Tasting Tour combines culture and food. Art lovers will appreciate the Matcha and Art Tour, and those wanting a comprehensive day should consider the Full Day Tour. Finally, if you want a private, customizable experience, the Enoshima and Kamakura Tour offers exclusivity and flexibility.
Booking early is advisable, especially for tours with limited availability or those that include popular attractions.
Final Thoughts
Matsumoto offers an impressive array of walking tours suited for different interests and style of travel. If you’re after a personalized, deep dive into the city’s history and culture, the Matsumoto Discovery stands out. For a taste of traditional Japan paired with scenic beauty, the Nakasendo Trail is a superb choice. Art lovers and culinary enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy with the Matcha and Art Tour and the Sake Tasting Tour.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance will help you secure your spot and ensure a smooth experience. With its fascinating mix of historic sites, beautiful streets, and local flavors, Matsumoto is a city made for walking and exploring at your own pace.