Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience
At a glance
Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience is a 3h small-group experience in Matsumoto, Japan, operated by Welcome Matsumoto. Travellers rate it 4.9 out of 5 across 89 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $88.55 per person, and free cancellation is available. Included: Samurai outfits and swords rental during the activity, Entry/Admission – Matsumoto Castle, Entry/Admission – Samurai Experience Activity.
Highlights
- Small group of up to 15 people for a more personal experience
- Free cancellation for flexible planning
Quick facts
- Duration
- 3h
- Group
- Small group, up to 15 travellers
- Languages
- English
- Pickup
- Meet at the start point
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (see policy)
Overview
Your chance to become a Samurai while visiting Matsumoto Castle!
What better place to have your samurai experience than in a city with an authentic castle from the feudal era?
First take a tour of Matsumoto Castle designated a “National Treasure” of Japan due to its well-preserved original structure! During the tour, you will learn about the Matsumoto Samurai lords, the history of Matsumoto City and even some of the castle's defensive strategies.
Then experience a live hands-on Samurai Sword Fighting activity! A Master Samurai will teach you some of these ancient fighting techniques. You can choose your own colors for your outfit which consists of a yukata (light kimono), hakama (wide-leg pants), and obi (belt). You can even select your swords!
The stage and the atmosphere of the place is bound to take you on a realistic journey back in time. The perfect setting for a complete immersion into this slice of Japanese history!
What's included
What's included
- Samurai outfits and swords rental during the activity
- Entry/Admission – Matsumoto Castle
- Entry/Admission – Samurai Experience Activity
- English Speaking Guide
Not included
- Miscellaneous fees during the activity (meals, snacks, souvenirs etc.)
- Insurance (Travel Insurance, Private Insurance, etc...)
Itinerary
-
Stop 1 · 1h 30m
Matsumoto Castle is one of five castles designated as ‘National Treasures of Japan’ and the oldest castle donjon remaining in Japan. Construction began in 1592 of the elegant black and white structure with its three turrets. Because of the elegant black walls, Matsumoto Castle is sometimes called ‘Crow Castle’.
Please note that the stairs to reach the top of Matsumoto Castle’s tower are steep and narrow. -
Stop 2 · 1h
Here is the Samurai Experience Activity! Learn how to handle the sword (Katana) as well as some basic samurai movement (Kamae).
Meeting point
Tour begins at Matsumoto Station at the front of the JR Line ticket office / Starbucks Coffee inside the station (2F)
Good to know
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please note that the stairs to reach the top of Matsumoto Castle’s tower are steep and narrow.
- In Japan, authentic katanas are classified as illegal weapons under strict licensing laws. Tourists can see them in museums or specialty shops, but theatrical swords are widely used in performances, training, and during our samurai experience.
- This activity focuses on proper sword techniques and kata accessible to all including families. It does not involve any type of slicing or cutting of objects.
- There is no minimum age requirements
- Children less than 6 years old can participate for free (kid’s outfits and foam swords are included at no additional fees)
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Matsumoto Castle Tour & Samurai Experience take?
The experience lasts about 3h.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from $88.55 per person. The final price depends on the date, time and number of travellers, and is confirmed on Viator before you pay.
What's included?
Samurai outfits and swords rental during the activity; Entry/Admission – Matsumoto Castle; Entry/Admission – Samurai Experience Activity; English Speaking Guide.
Where does it start?
Tour begins at Matsumoto Station at the front of the JR Line ticket office / Starbucks Coffee inside the station (2F)
Can I cancel?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is guided in English.
Is it worth it?
Travellers rate it 4.9 out of 5 across 89 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, which places it among the top-rated experiences in Matsumoto.
