MATSUMOTO

Matsumoto is a historic city renowned for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture and rich cultural heritage. The city's centerpiece is Matsumoto Castle, a National Treasure and one of Japan's few remaining original castles, notable for its striking black exterior and unique flatland construction.

Matsumoto Castle Tour & Soba Noodle Experience

Meeting Place - directions 
Nearby Parking Lot - directions (only 1,000 yen and smaller notes are accepted - Cash Only - 1,200 yen per day)

Matsumoto is world-famous for its earthy soba noodles made from buckwheat flour. It is also known for its well-preserved feudal castle. Experience both on this unique tour of the city. After touring Matsumoto Castle—one of Japan's National Treasures—you will learn how to prepare a traditional soba dish and then taste its exquisite flavors! Both exciting and enriching, this hands-on experience gives you an unforgettable way to learn about Japanese history and culture.

• Tour a historic Japanese feudal-era castle

• Learn the art of soba noodle making from a soba-making master

• Gain hands-on experience on how to use various soba-making tools

• Taste the earthy flavors of this Matsumoto culinary icon several different ways (hot or chilled and with various side dishes)

Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $287.58 (for x2 people)
🚩 Prior Reservation is required - To be booked by Japan Junket

Explore Nakamachi-dori and ‘Frog Street’

550m / 7 minutes on foot from Matsumoto Castle - directions
5 minutes by car from Matsumoto Castle - Nearby Parking Lot - directions (300 yen per hour)

Nakamachi-dor is a preserved street with hundreds of years of history. Presently, Nakamachi has a variety of shops including folk art shops, craft shops and restaurants, and cafes.

Running parallel to Nakamachi across the river lies "Frog Street", a pedestrian-only lane of shops and cafes housed in small, traditional-style buildings. The street got its nickname in the Meiji Period after the construction of Yohashira Shrine for which it serves as the main approach.

• Torinoko - Folk Art

  40m / 1 minute on foot from Parking Lot - directions
  Open: 10:00am ~ 5:00pm
  Closed: No Closures

Torinoko is a delightful artisan shop near Ihara in Matsumoto, Japan, offering a curated selection of handmade goods and local crafts. Known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, Torinoko showcases a range of items, from textiles and ceramics to unique homewares, often featuring works by local artists.

• Ihara - Lacquerware

  42m/ 1 minute on foot from Torinoko - directions
  Open: 10:00am ~ 6:30pm
  Closed: Wednesdays

  Ihara is a renowned lacquerware shop in Matsumoto, Japan, celebrated for its exquisite craftsmanship and dedication to traditional Japanese artistry. The shop specializes in creating elegant and durable lacquerware, including tableware and decorative items, using time-honored techniques. Visitors can admire the intricate designs and high-quality finishes, making Ihara a must-visit destination for those seeking unique, handcrafted souvenirs or a deeper appreciation of Japanese craftsmanship.

• Nabeya - Japanese Home Decor and Tatami

  70m / 1 minute on foot from Ihara - directions
  Open: 10:00am ~ 6:00pm
  Closed: Wednesdays

• Nabeya specializes in traditional Japanese interior design elements. It offers a range of beautifully crafted tatami mats, shoji screens, and other home decor items that bring an authentic touch of Japan's aesthetic to any space. Known for its high-quality materials and attention to detail, Nabeya helps customers create serene, harmonious environments inspired by Japanese living.

• Sekiya - Stationary

  13m / 1 minute on foot from Nabeya - directions
  Open: 10:00am ~ 6:00pm
  Closed: Sundays

  Sekiya Stationery offers an exceptional selection of high-quality stationery and writing supplies. Known for its curated collection, the store features everything from elegant Japanese papers and handcrafted notebooks to exquisite pens and inks. Sekiya blends tradition with modern design, making it a haven for stationery enthusiasts and those seeking thoughtful gifts.

• 🍴GUSUKU - Okinawan Cuisine

  600m / 9 minutes on foot from Matsumoto City Museum of Art - directions
  Open: 11:00am ~ 10:00pm
  Closed: Tuesdays

  GUSUKU is a restaurant located in Matsumoto, Japan, known for its warm ambiance and traditional Okinawan cuisine. The restaurant specializes in dishes that highlight the flavors of Okinawa, using locally sourced ingredients to craft its unique meals.