Day 01
Matsumoto Castle and Daio Wasabi Farm Discovery
- Pick-up - Nagano Station or your hotel in Nagano City.
- Your bilingual driver will meet you at Nagano Station or your hotel in Nagano City to begin your journey to Matsumoto. Enjoy a comfortable ride through scenic landscapes on the way to your first destination.
- Drive to Matsumoto Castle (approx. 1 hr 30 min).
- Matsumoto Castle (approx. 1 hour).
- Explore one of Japan's most well-preserved and stunning original castles. Step inside to experience its historic wooden interiors, steep staircases, and breathtaking views from the top. Your driver can share insights into the castle's history and cultural significance. Your driver will wait for you outside while you explore the castle and will be ready to assist when you finish your visit.
- Nakamachi Street (approx. 30 minutes).
- Take a stroll along Nakamachi Street, known for its traditional kura storehouses with black-and-white crisscross-patterned walls. This beautiful street is a great place to browse and shop for Japanese handicrafts such as pottery, lacquerware, and wooden crafts.
Optional Stop - Nawate Street (approx. 20 minutes)
- If you'd like, take a short detour to Nawate Street, a charming 200-meter-long brick road along the Metoba River. Dating back to the 1500s, this historic street is famous for its unique frog-themed decorations, quaint shops, and local snacks.
Optional Stop - Matsumoto Old High School (approx. 30 minutes)
- For a taste of Japan's educational history, visit Matsumoto Old High School, a beautifully preserved Meiji-era school building. This architectural gem offers a glimpse into Japan's past and makes for great photos.
Optional Stop - Matsumoto City Museum of Art (approx. 45 minutes)
- Art enthusiasts will enjoy the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, where you can explore various exhibits, including works by the renowned artist Yayoi Kusama, a Matsumoto native. Her colorful and imaginative art is a highlight of the museum.
- Drive to Daio Wasabi Farm (approx. 30 minutes).
- Daio Wasabi Farm & Lunch Experience (approx. 1.5-2 hours).
- Arrive at Japan's largest wasabi farm, where you can explore vast wasabi fields, clear streams, and historic watermills.
Lunch Experience
- Enjoy a unique wasabi-infused meal at the farm's restaurant. You'll receive a fresh whole wasabi root and grate it yourself using a traditional grater, adding its freshly ground flavor to your dish. This hands-on experience lets you fully appreciate the fresh, authentic taste of Japanese wasabi.
- After lunch, take a relaxing walk through the farm, visit the watermills, and try wasabi-themed treats like wasabi ice cream.
- Drive back to Nagano (approx. 1 hr 30 min).
- Drop-off - Nagano Station or your hotel in Nagano City.
- Your tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel or Nagano Station, ensuring a smooth and comfortable end to your day.
