Top Things to do in Matsumoto
Top Restaurants in Matsumoto
Things to do in Matsumoto, Chubu: The Best Cultural Tours
The proud black “crow castle” of Matsumoto keeps watch over a city that’s rapidly developing into an epicenter of food and culture. Slurp noodles made from local soba or taunt your taste buds with product from the Daio Wasabi Farm. Take a soothing soak in a local hot spring or spend a few minutes in the Timepiece Museum. Classical music fans should consider a visit during the Saito Kinen Festival Matsumoto, founded by famed conductor Seiji Ozawa.
Restaurants in Matsumoto
1. Matsumoto Private One Day Tour from Nagano with Tour Guide and Private Vehicle
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
On this full day private tour, visit the city of Matsumoto with your tour guide. Enjoy the historical Matsumoto Castle, the unique streets of Nawate and Nakamachi and see Daio Wasasbi Farm, the largest wasabi farm in Japan in the tranquil Hotaka Town.
Inclusions: Transportation within Matsumoto City (either public transportation or private chartered vehicle), Trip to Matsumoto Castle, Nawate Street, Daio Wasabi Farm and more, Flexibility to customize your itinerary according to your preferences.
Exclusions: Meals, snacks and drinks, Optional Activities in Matsumoto
Reviewed By 926maggieh
While we were sad to have to cancel our July trip to Japan due to the pandemic, we found the process of working with Japan Awaits to be easy and efficient. I can't speak to the full experience since we weren't able to go, but filling out the form and our communication with the company was no problem. And their prompt and courteous response to our request for a refund speaks to their professionalism. We will definitely come back to ask for their help in procuring tickets to the Studio Ghibli Museum when we do finally make it to Japan! Fingers crossed for next summer.
2. 2-Day Snow Monkey Tour: Nagano to Takayama via Matsumoto
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Situated between the popular destinations of Tokyo and Kyoto, the mountainous of region of Nagano is the literal heart of Japan and a road less travelled by many international visitors. This tour combines some of the region’s most iconic destinations - including the world-famous Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani, the 1400-year old Zenko-ji Temple, Matsumoto Castle, and the historic old town of Takayama - with the unforgettable experience of being driven through Japan’s Northern Alps, a place of high mountain peaks and rarefied beauty. With English-speaking guide, lunch, and full-service accommodation on Day 1 followed by hotel pick-up and transport to Matsumoto and Takayama, including hotel drop-off, on Day 2, this tour captures the history and beauty of central Japan with the convenience and comfort of one easy package.
Inclusions: Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Transportation from Nagano to all listed destinations, ending at Takayama, Snow Monkey Park entrance fee, Sake tasting, Accommodation at Hotel Kokusai 21 on Day 1 (inc. breakfast on Day 2), Matsumoto Castle entrance fee on Day 2, English-speaking guide & transport on Day 1, Driver & transport on Day 2
Exclusions: Dinner on Day 1 & Day 2, Accommodation in Takayama, Shinkansen/bullet train tickets, English-speaking guide on Day 2
Reviewed By LyceTherece
AMAZING Valentine's Day! Our guide (Peter, I believe) was absolutely fantastic, offering information, fun facts and history at every turn. He went above and beyond to make our experience wonderful, and it was, despite abnormally warm weather keeping the monkeys away from the onsen, and COVID precautions causing an early end to the lantern festival. Our guide was super knowledgeable and helpful, and went above and beyond to provide a memorable tour for us all. He was the epitome of the hospitality and kindness that I love so much about Japan!
3. Discover Japan Tour: 15-day Small Group
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
See the real Japan and experience its culture beyond the typical tourist sites. You'll walk through busy streets, ride the bullet train, and enjoy local foods. Each tour is customized to fit the preferences of the group.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Dinner, Dinner, Dinner
Exclusions:
Reviewed By 559janies
My 2 friends and I went on the beginners Spring Tour 2019 for our first trip to Japan. We loved it and can't wait to go back! Becky and Shawn are awesome. They were so down to earth, helpful and very knowledgeable. I also really liked that the tour group is small. It allows you to get to know your fellow group members and ensures personal attention from your guides. We saw so many large tour groups at tour sites and they looked a little chaotic, it made me happy we chose a small group. The accommodations were always clean and comfortable and located perfectly. Food was amazing!!! If you are willing to try new things you can have an amazing gourmet experience. The events and locations that Becky and Shawn chose were top notch and we got to experience all different modes of transportation while there.
4. Highlights of Japan Tour: 10-day Small Group
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
See the real Japan and experience its culture beyond the typical tourist sites. You'll walk through busy streets, ride the bullet train, and enjoy local foods. Each tour is customized to fit the preferences of the group.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast
Exclusions: Travel Insurance, Airfare
Reviewed By 559janies
My 2 friends and I went on the beginners Spring Tour 2019 for our first trip to Japan. We loved it and can't wait to go back! Becky and Shawn are awesome. They were so down to earth, helpful and very knowledgeable. I also really liked that the tour group is small. It allows you to get to know your fellow group members and ensures personal attention from your guides. We saw so many large tour groups at tour sites and they looked a little chaotic, it made me happy we chose a small group. The accommodations were always clean and comfortable and located perfectly. Food was amazing!!! If you are willing to try new things you can have an amazing gourmet experience. The events and locations that Becky and Shawn chose were top notch and we got to experience all different modes of transportation while there.
5. Matsumoto Private One Day Tour
Explore Matsumoto at your own pace and to your own interests on this full-day private guided tour. Visit Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's best-preserved castles, then explore surrounding streets, including quirky "Frog Street," known for its abundance of frog products. Afterward, visit tranquil Hotaka Town, home to Japan’s largest wasabi farm where you can try wasabi ice-cream and visit nearby Hotaka Shrine.
Inclusions: Transportation within Matsumoto City (either public transportation or private chartered vehicle), Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off within Matsumoto, Flexibility to customize your itinerary according to your preferences, Trip to Matsumoto Castle, Nawate Street, Daio Wasabi Farm and more
Exclusions: Meals, snacks and drinks, Optional Activities in Matsumoto
Reviewed By 926maggieh
While we were sad to have to cancel our July trip to Japan due to the pandemic, we found the process of working with Japan Awaits to be easy and efficient. I can't speak to the full experience since we weren't able to go, but filling out the form and our communication with the company was no problem. And their prompt and courteous response to our request for a refund speaks to their professionalism. We will definitely come back to ask for their help in procuring tickets to the Studio Ghibli Museum when we do finally make it to Japan! Fingers crossed for next summer.
6. Soba Noodle Making in Matsumoto, Nagano
With this tour you will be able to learn how to make your very own Soba noodles. You will be taught the basics of making soba, afterwards a professional soba chef will instruct you on making your soba. From creating the dough to cutting the dough into noodle slices, you will be able to experience what the soba chef does for a living. Of course after all your hard work, you will be able to eat your very own masterpiece. -What is Soba noodle?- Soba noodle is a popular noodle dish like ramen in Japan. However unlike ramen Soba noodle is made from buckwheat flour, although in some places and region they would add wheat flour as well. Soba noodle can be eaten either hot or cold, which makes a great dish for both cold season and warm seasons. When eating soba you will dip into a sauce called "Tsuyu," and you would slurp while eating with a chopsticks. Matsumoto where you would be visiting is very popular with Soba, try and make your very own soba and become a soba chef.
Inclusions: English speaking assistant, Soba noodle, Soba noodle making lessson
Exclusions: Drink, Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Reviewed By Glenn B
We cancelled the tour in advance and have NEVER been refunded the payment, my advice to anybody is to avoid at all costs this tour
7. Nagano 5-Day Pass
Nagano 5-Day Pass is a ticket that allows you to fully enjoy the trains in the surrounding area including Nagano, Shinano, Ueda, Matsumoto. Nagano Prefecture is located in the central part of Honshu, Japan, and is called the roof of Japan. Take a trip to Nagano, one of Japan's most precious spas and treasures of history and culture. You can also observe wild monkeys enjoying hot springs in Jikkudaniya Enkoen during the winter season. ----------------------- Coverage Area: ----------------------- [[Shinano Electric Railway (しなの鉄道)]] -- Karizawa Station (軽井沢駅) - Shino noi Station (篠ノ井駅) -- Nagano Station (長野駅) to Myogogo Kogen Station (妙高高原駅) [[Nagano Electric Railway (長野電鉄)]] -- Nagano Station (長野駅) - Yudanagawa Station (湯田中駅) -- Ueda Electric Railway (上田電鉄) [[Ueda Station (上田駅) - Bessho Onsen Station (別所温泉駅)]] -- Matsumoto Station (松本駅) - Shinshigashima Station (新島々駅)
Inclusions: Nagano 5-day Pass, Air-conditioned vehicle
Exclusions: Subway section not included, Personal expenses, Individual traveler insurance
Reviewed By lorrainechallenor
The tour guide was not needed if we were given a map of the theme park. I was looking forward to looking at the Winery but oh what a disappointment, Just a few empty barrels and at the end of the short walk through the walk way to the wine bar. No free samples and certainly did not have a french feel with a picture of St Marks Square Italy. Would have liked to look around the gardens but was hurried to the next cable car to the the top to the theme park not impressed. I had high hopes for this trip but felt let down., More toilet stops on the way there would have been good due to medication I struggled. More for families. Disney land and still building work being carried out. Would advise not to go but go to and spend more time at Hue, I did like the views on the cable cars going up and down.
8. Matsumoto Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
This value-packed trip with a nationally/state licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Matsumoto! Matsumoto is an attractive, cosmopolitan city featuring a superb castle, pretty streets, galleries, and cafes. Matsumoto is a great stepping stone on your way to the Northern Alps, or you can simply enjoy the city's fresh air and dramatic scenery of the nearby mountain peaks. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a four-hour tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: Nationally and State Licensed Tour Guide-Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.
Inclusions: Free Photos, Hotel Pick up and Drop-off, Licensed Local Guide
Exclusions: Other personal expenses, Lunch - Lunch (for yourself and your guide), Entrance fee (for yourself), Private Vehicle, Transportation fee (for yourself and your guide)
Reviewed By Cwshaman
The flexibility to chose locations that suited our wants and abilities was great. Hiro San was very quick to put together an itinerary that accommodated a family with a stroller-baby (no monkey park due to long unpacked walking paths). Taking in the beautiful temples and view of the Kyoto from the west was breath taking and the guide was able to explain many things we as new Japanese learners could not read or know through cultural knowledge. Overall a great experience, a wonderful and lively guide, and some great memories.
9. Matsumoto Full-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
This value-packed trip with a nationally/state licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Matsumoto! Matsumoto is an attractive, cosmopolitan city featuring a superb castle, pretty streets, galleries, and cafes. Matsumoto is a great stepping stone on your way to the Northern Alps, or you can simply enjoy the city's fresh air and dramatic scenery of the nearby mountain peaks. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a six-hour tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: Nationally and State Licensed Tour Guide-Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.
Inclusions: Free Photos, Hotel Pick up and Drop-off, Licensed Local Guide
Exclusions: Other personal expenses, Lunch - Lunch (for yourself and your guide), Entrance fee (for yourself), Private Vehicle, Transportation fee (for yourself and your guide)
Reviewed By Cwshaman
The flexibility to chose locations that suited our wants and abilities was great. Hiro San was very quick to put together an itinerary that accommodated a family with a stroller-baby (no monkey park due to long unpacked walking paths). Taking in the beautiful temples and view of the Kyoto from the west was breath taking and the guide was able to explain many things we as new Japanese learners could not read or know through cultural knowledge. Overall a great experience, a wonderful and lively guide, and some great memories.
10. Japan Alps Kamikochi Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
Kamikochi is a popular resort in the Northern Japan Alps, offering some of Japan's most spectacular mountain scenery. With one of the most famous hiking paths in all Japan, we set foot there on our quest for traditional Japan. Kamikochi hiking course along the Azusa River is well maintained and almost flat. This value-packed trail day hike with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Japan Alps! It is about 3.5 kilometres (2 miles) long and has only gentle elevation changes which takes around 2-4 hours to easy walk at a leisurely pace. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a four-hours tour that's best for you! Note*1: Nationally and State Licensed Tour Guide-Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.
Inclusions: Free Photos, Licensed Local Guide
Exclusions: Other personal expenses, Lunch - Lunch (for yourself and your guide), Entrance fee (for yourself), Private Vehicle, Transportation fee (for yourself and your guide)
Reviewed By Cwshaman
The flexibility to chose locations that suited our wants and abilities was great. Hiro San was very quick to put together an itinerary that accommodated a family with a stroller-baby (no monkey park due to long unpacked walking paths). Taking in the beautiful temples and view of the Kyoto from the west was breath taking and the guide was able to explain many things we as new Japanese learners could not read or know through cultural knowledge. Overall a great experience, a wonderful and lively guide, and some great memories.
