1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle

Overview

Available languages

English

9 hours

Mobile ticket

Defined by its mountains and natural landscapes, Central Japan is the literal heartland of this beautiful country and a road less travelled by many international visitors. This engaging one-day tour takes you to Matsumoto Castle - one of the few remaining original castles in Japan and a registered National Treasure - before heading high into the grandeur of the North Alps and onto the protected alpine oasis of Kamikochi. Led by a locally-based guide and including lunch and direct transport to and from Kamikochi, this tour captures the essence of Central Japan by combining two of its most iconic destinations.

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

This tour is scheduled to conclude at Matsumoto Station by 18:30 and return to Nagano Station by 20:00-20:15. However, we cannot guarantee the end time as traffic could cause delays. For guests booking onward tickets to other destinations, we recommend doing so for times of 19:00 or later from Matsumoto, and 20:45 or later from Nagano Station.

Cancellation Policy

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

What‘s Included

Transportation to all listed destinations inc. direct access to/from Kamikochi

English-speaking guide

Entry to Matsumoto Castle & guided tour

Guided walk followed by free-time at Kamikochi

Lunch

Shinkansen or other onward travel tickets

Accommodation

What To Expect

Matsumoto Castle

Your guide will lead you around the historic grounds of the castle while introducing you to its history, legends and secrets. Should you wish to, you can enter the castle itself and climb all the way to the top-floor of its six storeys or simply take the time to relax outside.

1 hour 15 minutes•Admission Included

Nawate Shopping District

Stroll through the streets of Nawate-dori, also known as “Frog Street”, which is home to more than 50 shops, restaurants, and cafes most famous for selling all things frog-related.

30 minutes•Admission Not Applicable

Options

Join & end in Nagano/Matsumoto

Pickup included

Join fm Nagano end in Takayama

Pickup included

Reviews

4.95

60 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Matsumoto was fine, but...
Joshua C,
Oct 21, 2024
- Viator
3.00
Matsumoto was fine, but the the majority of the day is spent in the bus. The itinerary should be reversed and Kamikochi should be first and given more time. However regardless of this and even if you get a clear day to see the mountains the price does not Justify the experience.
A great day exploring the area
Jonathan S,
Aug 26, 2024
- Viator
5.00
We really enjoyed the day. Both the castle and the walk were great, and our guide made the trip especially memorable.
Excellent Tour
Bert W,
Jul 25, 2024
- Viator
5.00
Travel guide Shin was excellent. Explained the highlights of the locations visited. Very patient. Kamikochi is a very nice place. Just as expected.
Your experience
Hannah M,
Jul 2, 2024
- Viator
5.00
Devin and his two trainees did an excellent job! They made us feel welcomed and comfortable and gave us an experience that will never be forgotten! The castle tour was filled with in-depth historical knowledge and the subsequent tour of frog street was a lovely unexpected surprise! The Japanese alpes were breathtaking, the insider information on the hiking trails have convinced us to return and dedicate more days to the exploration of the surrounding area! Thankyou for making today as amazing as it was 🙏🏻
Great way to experience areas outside of the city.
Oscar G,
Jul 12, 2023
- Viator
5.00
The ride up to the castle and National Park were fun and made that much more interesting by the guide provided to us. The random wildlife made it feel like you were one with nature...at least as close you can get within a controlled environment. The national park is not something I would have done outside of the tour given the logistics and this was a great way to experience it in a short amount of time.