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. This is what Matsumoto offers you! In this city you will find many people who cherish their castle and the town’s samurai past. Discover the history of Matsumoto Castle and the Samurai, then step into the shoes of an apprentice Samurai and experience this ancient art of combat for yourself!

A Feudal Castle where the History of the Samurai Endures

Matsumoto and its historic castle are nestled in the middle of the Japanese Alps. Due to this geography, the city strategically surrounds its castle, intrinsically linking the local culture to Samurai lore.

First take a tour of Matsumoto Castle, one of only five castles designated a “National Treasure” of Japan due to its well-preserved original structure! The castle walls contain the oldest five-tiered, six-story castle tower that still exists in Japan today.
During the tour, you will learn about the Matsumoto Samurai lords, the history of Matsumoto City, the different classes and residential areas and even some of the castle's defensive strategies.

Experience in katana sword techniques and the art of the combat

Then experience a live hands-on Samurai Sword Fighting activity! A Master Samurai will teach you some of these ancient fighting techniques. You will meet passionate people who will patiently guide you every step of the way, all the while emphasizing the importance of just having fun! Not only may you find the experience entertaining, but you might make some friends too.

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! After getting used to the basic movements of the Samurai, you will be ready to challenge real opponents!

Become the star of your own Samurai story

The stage and the atmosphere of the place is bound to take you on a realistic journey back in time. The building where your experience takes place was not chosen by chance and features authentic period Japanese architecture. The perfect setting for a complete immersion into this slice of Japanese history.

You will be filmed in action and a complete video will be made available of your experience. There will also be many opportunities to take photos and make great lasting memories!

Additional Information

Meeting Location: Tour begins at Matsumoto Station. Your guide will meet you at 9:00am or 1:30pm.

Group Type: Group Tour (Private Tour Option available)

Important information:  Please note that the stairs to reach the top of Matsumoto Castle’s tower are steep and narrow.

Cancellation Policy: To receive a full refund, cancel up to 24 hours before the experience start date in the local time zone. No refunds will be given after that time period.

Terms & Conditions: Please see our Terms & Conditions