Matsumoto Private One Day Tour From Nagano

Exploring the historic town of Matsumoto is a must-do for visitors to Nagano. The Matsumoto Private One Day Tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the region’s rich culture and natural wonders. From the iconic Matsumoto Castle to the quirky Frog Street and the renowned Hotaka wasabi farm, this customizable tour promises an unforgettable experience. With round-trip transportation, knowledgeable guidance, and a focus on accessibility, it’s the perfect way to discover the heart of Japan. But what makes this tour truly special is the chance to…

This experience made our article of Best Tours in Nagano: Our 20 Top Picks.

Key Points

1. A private guided tour from Nagano to Matsumoto, exploring Matsumoto Castle, Frog Street, and Japan’s largest wasabi farm in Hotaka Town.
2. Round-trip transportation options, including train or private vehicle, with an English-speaking guide accompanying the tour.
3. Customizable itinerary with flexible options to spend more time at Matsumoto Castle or explore Frog Street and other activities.
4. Wheelchair accessibility, reasonable cancellation policy, and non-refundable booking with a licensed tour company.
5. Tour includes entrance fees, meals, snacks, and drinks, with the option to add additional activities in Matsumoto.

Tour Overview

This private guided tour takes travelers from Nagano to the historic city of Matsumoto.

Guests will explore Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s best-preserved castles. They’ll also visit Frog Street, known for its frog-themed products.

The tour then ventures to Hotaka Town, home to Japan’s largest wasabi farm. Visitors can try wasabi ice cream and tour Hotaka Shrine.

The tour includes round-trip transportation options, an English-speaking guide, castle entrance fees, and meals.

The itinerary can be customized to suit individual preferences, with optional activities available in Matsumoto.

Inclusion Details

The tour includes round-trip transfer options, allowing guests to choose between train or private vehicle transportation.

Within Matsumoto City, the tour provides transportation via public transit or private vehicle. An English-speaking guide accompanies guests throughout the day.

The tour includes the following:

1. Entrance fee to Matsumoto Castle
2. Meals, snacks, and drinks
3. Optional activities available in Matsumoto

Guests can customize the itinerary to suit their preferences. The tour is wheelchair accessible and near public transportation.

Certain policies, such as the cancellation policy, apply.

Itinerary Customization

One of the key features of this private tour is the flexibility to customize the itinerary according to the preferences of guests.

The tour guide is happy to make adjustments based on your interests, whether that means spending more time at Matsumoto Castle, exploring Frog Street, or visiting the wasabi farm.

Optional activities are also available in Matsumoto, allowing you to further personalize your experience.

The meeting point is at Nagano Station, and the tour starts at 9:00 AM, but the guide can accommodate reasonable changes to the schedule and pickup location if needed.

Accessibility and Policies

Wheelchair users can access the tour, as it’s near public transportation.

The tour operator follows a moderate cancellation policy:

1. 100% fee if cancelled 14 days or less.
2. 50% fee if cancelled 21 days or less.
3. 25% fee if cancelled 30 days or less.

Guests should dress for all weather conditions.

Passports may be required for age verification.

This private tour is operated by a licensed provider with vetted guides in Japan.

Guests should contact the tour guide if running late, as the wait time is up to 30 minutes before cancellation.

Booking is non-refundable, and the tour is likely to sell out, so guests should check availability for desired dates.

Booking Information

Booking for this private tour is non-refundable. The price starts from $267.44 per person and varies based on group size.

This tour is operated by a licensed tour company with vetted guides in Japan. Visitors should contact the tour guide if they’re running late, as the guide will wait up to 30 minutes before cancelling the tour.

Since this tour is likely to sell out, travelers should check availability for their desired dates. Flexibility is available to customize the itinerary according to preferences, and optional activities can be added in Matsumoto.

Exploring Matsumoto Castle

As visitors explore Matsumoto Castle, they’ll discover one of Japan’s best-preserved historical fortresses.

This iconic 16th-century castle features:

1. A distinctive, black-lacquered exterior that stands in sharp contrast to the surrounding mountains.
2. Intricate architectural details, including curved roof lines and ornate interiors.
3. Commanding views from the castle’s upper floors, providing a panoramic perspective of the city below.

Wandering through the castle’s halls and navigating its maze-like layout offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past, making it a must-see attraction on this Matsumoto tour.

Discovering Frog Street

After exploring the impressive Matsumoto Castle, visitors can wander down Frog Street, a charming alley known for its abundance of frog-themed products.

This unique destination offers a delightful shopping experience, with stores selling frog-shaped souvenirs, pottery, and even frog-flavored snacks.

Visitors can browse the quaint shops, sip on frog-inspired drinks, and enjoy the whimsical atmosphere.

The street’s vibrant murals and decorations add to the playful ambiance, making it a captivating and memorable part of the Matsumoto tour experience.

Hotaka Town and Wasabi Experiences

From Frog Street, the tour journeys onward to the charming town of Hotaka, home to Japan’s largest wasabi farm. Visitors can explore the verdant fields and learn about the cultivation of this iconic Japanese ingredient.

The highlight of the visit is the opportunity to:

1. Try wasabi ice cream, a unique local specialty that offers a flavorful twist on the traditional treat.
2. Visit the Hotaka Shrine, a peaceful and picturesque shrine that provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
3. Discover the impressive Hotaka Shrine, which features stunning architecture and serene gardens.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for the Tour?

The tour group size is flexible, with the price per person varying based on the total number of participants. Larger groups may enjoy a more affordable rate compared to smaller groups.

Can We Request Special Dietary Requirements?

Special dietary requirements can be accommodated, as the tour includes meals and snacks. Travelers should simply notify the tour guide of any dietary needs when booking the tour.

Are Child Discounts Available for the Tour?

Yes, child discounts are available for this tour. Children under 12 years old receive a reduced rate. Specific pricing details can be discussed with the tour operator when booking the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Guests can customize the itinerary to extend the tour and explore additional attractions in Matsumoto or surrounding areas, based on their interests and preferences.

Do the Tour Guides Provide Historical Context During the Visits?

Yes, the tour guides provide historical context during the visits. They share insights and interesting facts about the sites, enhancing the overall tour experience for participants.

The Sum Up

This Matsumoto Private One Day Tour from Nagano offers a captivating blend of cultural, natural, and culinary experiences. Explore the iconic Matsumoto Castle, discover the quirky charms of Frog Street, and explore the world of Japan’s largest wasabi farm. With a customizable itinerary, round-trip transportation, and an English-speaking guide, this tour provides a seamless and accessible way to take in the heart of Japan.