1 Day Tour From Nagano to Matsumoto Castle and Narai-Juku

The tour will start with a walk through the famous Nawate Street, also known as Frog Street, in Downtown Matsumoto. Completely closed off to private cars, this street provides a relaxing area to window shop, try some local ice cream and snacks, or visit the adjacent Yohashira Shrine.

Next you will be led inside Matsumoto Castle after a short walk. One of only 12 original castles remaining in Japan and one of the largest and most impressive out of those 12, this castle is everything you need to see to understand more about the Samurai lifestyle and governance in Old Japan. Not just historical but also extremely beautiful, Matsumoto Castle is sure to win you over with its bold but delicate exterior design.

After leaving Matsumoto Castle, guests will board the dedicated tour bus and get out on the road to head for Narai-juku post town. Known as the longest post town in Japan, with over 1km of traditional wooden buildings lining its single main street, this town is everything you have dreamed about when it comes to possessing a traditional Japanese atmosphere. Here your guide will lead you through the town and explain the history and purpose of this town and why it was important. There will also be a seasonal activity, such as entering a preserved old home or making chopsticks by hand, the price of which is covered in the tour.