Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Your chance to become a Samurai while visiting Matsumoto Castle!
What better place to have your samurai experience than in a city with an authentic castle from the feudal era?
First take a tour of Matsumoto Castle designated a “National Treasure” of Japan due to its well-preserved original structure! During the tour, you will learn about the Matsumoto Samurai lords, the history of Matsumoto City and even some of the castle's defensive strategies.
Then experience a live hands-on Samurai Sword Fighting activity! A Master Samurai will teach you some of these ancient fighting techniques. You can choose your own colors for your outfit which consists of a yukata (light kimono), hakama (wide-leg pants), and obi (belt). You can even select your swords!
The stage and the atmosphere of the place is bound to take you on a realistic journey back in time. The perfect setting for a complete immersion into this slice of Japanese history!
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please note that the stairs to reach the top of Matsumoto Castle’s tower are steep and narrow.
In Japan, authentic katanas are classified as illegal weapons under strict licensing laws. Tourists can see them in museums or specialty shops, but theatrical swords are widely used in performances, training, and during our samurai experience.
This activity focuses on proper sword techniques and kata accessible to all including families. It does not involve any type of slicing or cutting of objects.
There is no minimum age requirements
Children less than 6 years old can participate for free (kid’s outfits and foam swords are included at no additional fees)
What To Expect
Matsumoto Castle
Matsumoto Castle is one of five castles designated as ‘National Treasures of Japan’ and the oldest castle donjon remaining in Japan. Construction began in 1592 of the elegant black and white structure with its three turrets. Because of the elegant black walls, Matsumoto Castle is sometimes called ‘Crow Castle’. Please note that the stairs to reach the top of Matsumoto Castle’s tower are steep and narrow.
Nakamachi Kurassic-kan
Here is the Samurai Experience Activity! Learn how to handle the sword (Katana) as well as some basic samurai movement (Kamae).
Options
Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience
What‘s Included
Samurai outfits and swords rental during the activity
Entry/Admission – Matsumoto Castle
Entry/Admission – Samurai Experience Activity
English Speaking Guide
Miscellaneous fees during the activity (meals, snacks, souvenirs etc.)
Insurance (Travel Insurance, Private Insurance, etc...)
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
83 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Matsumoto tour
Jana D,Jun 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent tour, learned a ton about Japanese history. Samari experience was fantastic and very authentic. Excellent tour
Great time!
Lois B,Jun 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Lots of fun. Our guide did a great job. The castle was incredible and the Samurai experience was so much fun.
Matsumoto castle and samurai experience
Tim H,Jun 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Akiko took us on a walking tour of Matsumoto, explaining various landmarks on the way to the castle. The castle itself was incredible and, as someone who was in the military, had a great appreciation for the tactics used in the building of this castle. The stairs are no joke! As someone who is currently overweight, I found them challenging at times, especially the 40 cm stairs, but still doable. The samurai experience is definitely the main draw! It is easy to lose track of time there. My son and I would have easily stayed all day training. However, Akiko was very aware of our train schedule and she took great care to ensure we not only got back to the station on time but to make sure we were headed for the right line and platform. Akiko was very easy to talk to and I wish we didn’t have to go as quickly as we did. This is a must do!
Great experience
John H,May 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We both really enjoyed this trip immensely. Our knowledgable guide showed us round Matsumoto Castle. The highlight of the trip though was being able to dress up as and practice various sword moves. Highly recommended.
We had a great time...
Eliana C,May 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a great time touring the castle and practicing samurai moves. Our tour guide was very informative and happily answered all our questions. We learned much about the city on our way walking to the castle and then to the samurai experience. He also gave us great local restaurant and hike recommendations. We learned a lot and had fun!
Excellent
Andrew R,May 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The first part of the experience was a walking tour of part of the town and then the castle. Colin, our guide, was knowledgeable and amusing. The castle was a true highlight of our entire trip. The second half, the samurai experience was a huge amount of fun. Our teacher was engaging and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend recommend
A Top Day In Matsumoto
lesleycG4670DM,May 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a magic day visiting the Matsumoto castle with an excellent tour guide from Snow Monkey Resorts.He was incredibly knowledgeable,friendly and understanding. We had a fantastic hour wandering down Frog Street and then the magnificent alpine scenery of Kamikochi.Loved walking along the Azusa River .We highly recommend our guide from Snow Monkey Resorts also his choice of restaurant was perfect a delicious meal to complete an awesome day.
Excellent Experience
Bret F,Apr 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a great time exploring Matsumoto Castle with Colin. We learned a lot about the city of Matsumoto on the way to the castle also. Colin did a fantastic job delving into the pertinent details and keeping the group interested throughout the castle tour. Afterwards we did the samurai experience and it was a highlight of our trip! The instructor was patient and truly interested in the art and teaching it to others. We would definitely recommend!
Black crow castle tour with samurai experience
shannon w,Apr 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Be prepared to climb a lot of stairs in the castle. Our guide was great and explained everything, and the lady that was hosting the summer I experience was an expert and a great teacher!
Fabulous experience for the whole family
sleepy24,Apr 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing! Tom was a brilliant guide, knowledgeable and kept our 14 and eleven year old entertained with lots of stories. The samurai instructors were so skilful. Thoroughly enjoyed it
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