• Kasamori Inari Shrine - Nestled among the towering modern buildings in downtown Matsumoto City, Kasamori Inari Shrine is dedicated to Inari, the deity of rice harvest and business prosperity. The shrine is adjacent to Jorinji Temple and features a wooden gate from the Edo period, over 200 years old, which is the oldest wooden gate in Matsumoto.

On your way to Matsumoto Castle, take a moment to visit the hidden Kasamori Inari Shrine and witness the harmonious coexistence of Shinto and Buddhism.

• Matsumoto Castle - Matsumoto Castle is one of five castles designated as ‘National Treasures of Japan’ and is the oldest surviving castle donjon in the country. Construction of the elegant black and white structure with its three turrets began in 1592. Due to its striking black walls, Matsumoto Castle is also known as ‘Crow Castle’.

Please be aware that the stairs leading to the top of Matsumoto Castle’s tower are steep and narrow.

• Ishii Miso - As one of the few remaining traditional miso paste makers in Japan, this local miso brewery is a must-visit for those interested in Japanese cuisine and culinary traditions.

During a tour of the Japanese miso brewery, you will first encounter rows of 100-year-old cedar fermenting barrels. A brewery worker will then guide you through the entire miso-making process, showcasing the vast varieties of miso found in Japan.

After the tour, enjoy a delicious miso lunch featuring the best miso-inspired dishes, such as miso rice balls, miso pickles, and tonjiru (pork miso soup).

• Matsumoto City Museum of Art - The Matsumoto City Museum of Art displays works by many Japanese artists inspired by the city and its surroundings and features a permanent exhibition of the world-renowned avant-garde artist, Yayoi Kusama.

The museum welcomes you with Kusama’s “Maboroshi no Hana” (The Visionary Flowers), an impressive open-air sculpture. Inside, you will find many captivating and immersive works of art by Kusama and other artists.

• Nakamachi Street - Nakamachi Street is a historic shopping area known for its traditional storehouses called “Kura,” characterized by their black-and-white, criss-cross patterned walls. This charming street is also a popular shopping destination for locals, offering a variety of shops and restaurants.

Here, you can find many Japanese handicrafts, such as pottery, lacquerware, and wooden crafts. Nakamachi retains its mercantile spirit, exemplified by the old “Kurassic-kan,” a fully restored sake warehouse open to the public and hosting various cultural activities.

• Yohashira Shrine - Built during the Meiji Period (1868-1912), Yohashira Shrine is dedicated to four Shinto deities, a unique feature in Japan. Because so many deities are enshrined together, it is commonly believed that this shrine has special wish-granting properties.
• Nawate Shopping District - Nawate Street is lined with small shops featuring a subtle frog theme. In addition to various snack shops, the street offers numerous shops selling knick-knacks and souvenirs. Yohashira Shrine is also located on Nawate Street and is a lovely spot to relax while enjoying taiyaki or rice crackers.

Take a leisurely stroll along Nawate Street to experience a relaxed rural village atmosphere in the heart of the city. Here, you will find warm culture and hospitality, and perhaps a souvenir or two!

• Nakamachi Kurassic-kan - Kurassic-kan is one of the city’s most famous buildings. This former sake brewery is a prime example of Japanese architecture, with remnants of the past still visible.

• Entry/Admission – Matsumoto Castle + 2 other venues/activities
• Lunch (at an agreed restaurant)
• Private English speaking Guide
• The preparation of your personalized itinerary according to your interest
• Meals, entrance tickets, etc. for your guide

• Transportation, miscellaneous fees during the activity (snacks, souvenirs, etc.)
• Insurance (Travel Insurance, Private Insurance, etc…)
• Entry for additional venues / activities

Discover the True Character of Matsumoto on a Personalized Tour!

From our famous castle, to our historic shopping streets and enticing food and art scene, Matsumoto is best experienced on a private tour customized to suit your needs and interests!

Let us share our knowledge and passion for Matsumoto by crafting a private tour that matches your interests and travel itinerary. More than just a guided experience, we design private tours to reveal both the history and contemporary character of Matsumoto – in a way only a local can do!

We will create an itinerary based on your interests, our recommendations or a combination of both. Accompanied by a locally-based, English-speaking guide you will then explore the city with your guide enhancing all aspects of your visit through their knowledge of Matsumoto and in any way that is of assistance.

The provided tour details is our recommended itinerary.

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