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Nagano Prefecture is Japan’s second largest producer of ‘sake’ and as such, visiting a brewery while in the region is a great way to dive that little bit deeper into the local culture. Kametaya Sake ...

As a proud castle town, Matsumoto is the ideal place to try your hand at traditional ‘taiko’ drums. Originally used during warfare, taiko are now practiced purely for ceremony and entertainment, taki...

Known as ‘cha-do’ in Japanese, tea ceremonies were originally introduced to Japan from China and over the centuries have been refined into a uniquely experience – perhaps the most quintessential ‘Jap...

Famous of its iconic castle, of the story of Matsumoto is that of legendary samurai class, that ruled the city and country for hundreds of years. The legacy of the samurai is evident throughout Matsu...

Made from buckwheat, ‘soba’ noodles are one of the most popular dishes in Japan and nowhere more so than in Matsumoto. While in the city you will come across lots of soba restaurants with many promot...

A small town nestled up next to the mountains, Inami punches far above its weight. This town is famous for being the center of traditional woodcarving in Japan. There are over 100 workshops throughou...

Discover the charms and food culture of the Asama Onsen district of historic Matsumoto City, on this 5-hour guided walking tour. Led by a locally-based guide, you’ll delve into the tastes and tra...

Visitors to Matsumoto will enjoy one of Central Japan’s most historic city where the past lives on in the form of its famous castle and historic streets full of old merchant stores. Travelers wanting...

People in Japan sometimes say, ‘There are two types of towns here. Temple towns and castle towns’. Matsumoto is very much a castle town; a historic city boasting one of Japan’s best preserved cas...