Full-Day Tour: Matsumoto Castle & Kamikochi Alpine Valley

About This Experience

The tour begins at JR Nagano Station at 8:15 AM. Your guide will greet all guests and quickly have you on your way toward the historic city of Matsumoto. Arriving around 09:45 AM, your guide will lead you to Matsumoto Castle one of Nagano’s most impressive cultural sites, known for its structural beauty set against a splendid mountain backdrop. Before making your way to the castle, explore the famous 'Frog Street,' Nawate-Dori, home to more than 50 shops, restaurants, and cafes famous for selling all things frog-related.

At the castle you will be guided into the castle grounds as your guide reveals the history and features which make it so lauded, before giving you time to explore for yourself.

It’s then time to head high into the mountains, as you are transported into the Northern Alps and onto Kamikochi. Situated 1500 meters above sea level deep within the Chubu Sangaku National Park, Kamikochi is famous for its pristine natural state, beautiful rivers and ponds, lush forests, and dramatic mountain peaks rising to over 3000 meters.

The next few hours are yours to enjoy as you choose. You can choose to stroll further along the river or sit at a café or restaurant, and simply take in the view. At 5:30 PM the tour bus will depart and begin the journey back toward Nagano.

Highlights

• Visit the famous Matsumoto Castle
• Stroll Matsumoto’s quaint ‘Frog Street’
• Explore the stunning alpine valley of Kamikochi

What's Included

• ✓ Transportation to all listed destinations and activities
• ✓ Guide
• ✓ Entry ticket to Matsumoto Castle
• ✓ Guided tour of Matsumoto Castle
• ✓ Guided walk at Kamikochi

Not Included

• Lunch and additional travel costs including train tickets
• Accommodation (unless requested)

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Weather-appropriate clothing

Good to Know & Caveats

• Please wear suitable shoes and clothing for alpine walking in Kamikochi
• This tour includes a considerable amount of walking. Guests have the option of entering Matsumoto Castle and climbing to the sixth floor using internal staircases. The staircases are steep and should not be attempted by guests who are mobility impaired
• This tour is scheduled to conclude at Matsumoto Station by 18:30 and return to Nagano Station by 20:00-20:15
• Due to traffic, delays may occur
• All listed events, activities, and experiences are subject to availability. Availability may vary depending on the date and other factors
• If any part of your booked itinerary becomes unavailable, we will contact you as soon as possible to offer a suitable alternative where possible. If a booked itinerary component is unavailable or requires a critical change and you do not wish to accept the proposed alternative, you may cancel the affected booking and receive a full refund

Meeting Point

JR Nagano Station (8:15 AM departure); Matsumoto Station is a later pickup stop on the same route.