Private Matsumoto Castle and Azumino Craft Immersive Culture Tour Discount Tickets

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Get your discount tickets for the Private Matsumoto Castle and Azumino Craft Immersive Culture Tour, save up to 9% !

Overview

Embark on an exclusive 8-hour journey through the scenic heritage and artisanal soul of the Japanese Alps. Relax in the ultimate comfort of a high-end luxury van as you travel seamlessly between the historic streets of Matsumoto and the tranquil landscapes of Azumino. This immersive tour offers a perfect balance of architectural history and hands-on artistry. Explore two National Treasures—the majestic Matsumoto Castle and the historic Former Kaichi School—before savoring a fresh lunch at Japan’s largest wasabi farm. The highlight of your afternoon is a personalized craft session where you can choose between traditional wooden chopstick making or professional glassblowing at The Art Studio 8. Follow this with a visit to either the Rokuzan Art Museum or the Chihiro Art Museum, based on your preference. Designed for discerning travelers, this private experience ensures a deep, mindful connection to local craftsmanship and the timeless beauty of Nagano’s alpine region.

Pickup Information

- Pickup Locations: Direct door-to-door service from your specified location (hotel or meeting spot) in Hakuba, Nagano City, Azumino, or Matsumoto. - Vehicle Features: Private luxury transport equipped with complimentary in-car Wi-Fi. - Arrival Time: Please be ready at the designated pickup point at least 10 minutes prior to the scheduled departure. - Tour Commencement: Your tour starts immediately upon meeting your guide at the designated pickup location. - Drop-off: Returns to the original pickup location or an alternative point agreed upon in advance.

Language Offered

English-GUIDE

Itinerary

1. Matsumoto Castle
Step back in time at Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s premier historic castles and a designated National Treasure.
Duration: 60 mins
2. Kaichi Gakko Primary School
The Former Kaichi School, a masterpiece of Meiji-era architecture that symbolizes the dawn of modern education in Japan
Duration: 45 mins
3. Daio Wasabi Farm
Explore Japan’s largest wasabi farm, fed by pristine Alpine springs. Admire the iconic historic watermills and enjoy a curated lunch featuring fresh local ingredients amidst the farm's serene scenery.
Duration: 60 mins
4. Azumino
Please choose one of the following two experiences for this part of your tour: [Option 1] Wooden Chopstick Making Engage in a mindful craft experience by carving your own personalized wooden chopsticks. [Option 2] Glassware Creation at The Art Studio 8 Join professional artists to craft custom tumblers through glassblowing, or try lampworking for delicate glass beads. Important Note: These workshops have specific closing days. If your first choice is unavailable, we will offer the other craft option. If both are closed, we will skip this stop and adjust the itinerary accordingly. We appreciate your understanding.
Duration: 60 mins
5. Rokuzan Art Museum
Discover a sanctuary of modern Japanese sculpture nestled in a forest at the foot of the Northern Alps. The museum’s unique Christian-inspired architecture and tranquil grounds offer a serene escape into Azumino’s artistic heritage.
Duration: 45 mins
6. Chihiro Art Museum Azumino
Azumino Chihiro Art Museum Located in serene Azumino, this is the world’s first museum dedicated to children's book illustrations. It celebrates Chihiro Iwasaki, one of Japan’s most beloved artists, famous for her delicate watercolor paintings of children and flowers. Why Visit? An architectural gem set within a 35,000sqm park, the museum blends art and nature perfectly against the stunning Northern Alps backdrop. It offers a soulful escape from the city. Key Highlights: - Gentle Art: Emotive works conveying "Peace and Happiness for Children." - Global Collection: Features renowned picture-book artists from around the globe. - Totto-chan Connection: Fans of the bestseller Totto-chan: The Little Girl at the Window will recognize Chihiro’s iconic illustrations. - Cafe with a View: Relax with local delicacies and mountain scenery. A tranquil, moving experience for art lovers and families alike.
Duration: 45 mins

Inclusion

Entrance Fees for Chihiro Art Museum Azumino

Experience Fees for Wooden Chopstick Making / Glassware Creation

Entrance Fees for Matsumoto Castle

Entrance Fees for Former Kaichi School

In-vehicle air conditioning

Entrance Fees for Rokuzan Art Museum

Exclusion

Duration Surcharge (over 8 hours) every 30 minutes

Lunch

Cancellation Policy

Check mark icon Refundable tickets

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

  • 100% refund if cancelled 1+ days before the start date
  • 0% refund if cancelled less than 1 day(s) before the start date

Additional Info

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Extension Surcharge: For any extension beyond 8 hours, a surcharge of ¥10,000 will be applied for every 30 minutes.

The tour duration includes all time from guide pickup to final drop-off at your accommodation or designated location.

If a scheduled site like a castle, museum, or workshop is closed or unavailable, we will offer the best available alternative or adjust the itinerary.

Supplied by LOCAL GUIDE JAPAN

Reviews

5.0

★★★★★ ★★★★★
Based on 2 reviews

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