Take leisurely stroll through the historic castle town of Matsumoto with a local guide, exploring its hidden alleys and charming old shopping streets.
Discover the everyday life beyond typical sightseeing.
The highlight of the trip is trekking on the Utsukushigahara Plateau at 2,000m elevation. Accessing quiet ridge routes only possible with a chartered vehicle, you’ll find luxurious trails with few other hikers. Weather permitting, a 360-degree panorama unfolds, stretching from the Northern Alps and Yatsugatake Mountains to distant Mount Fuji, with the cityscape of Matsumoto spread out below. Feel the breeze and savor blissful moments alone with the scenery.
After your hike, head to a local hot spring beloved by the locals. At this hot spring, where you can relax without worry even if you have tattoos, soak away your fatigue. Then, grab a post-bath drink at the local eatery “Kakesu”right next door. “Kakesu de Ippai”—it’s the perfect reward unique to Matsumoto to cap off this journey.
The city, the mountains, the hot springs, and the people —all come together naturally in this gentle yet deeply enriching soft adventure that begins in Matsumoto. Step beyond the bustle of the city center and discover a more authentic, slower side of Matsumoto waiting to be explored.
Highlights
- Explore Matsumoto Castle Town and Back Alleys with a Local Guide
- Hike the “Utsukushigahara Long Trail” from Mount Mitsumine to Mount Yagushidake: Enveloped in Spectacular Views and Serenity
- Locally Beloved Onsen and Post-Onsen “Kakesu de Ippai”
Itinerary
(Walking distance: Approximately 3 km)
Upon arrival at Matsumoto Station, check in to your accommodation.
The journey begins with a tasting of locally brewed sake, paired with a briefing for the days ahead.
Enjoy a leisurely walk through the castle town with your guide. Admire the commanding presence of Matsumoto Castle, explore traditional townhouses and craft shops, and pause by the pure spring waters and gentle streams that have long sustained in this historic town. Feel the harmony of nature and history, as if retracing the footsteps of those who lived and traveled through this town centuries ago.
For dinner, head to an izakaya frequented by locals. Experience the authentic bustle of Matsumoto.
*Accommodation: Downtown Matsumoto City / 4-star
(Walking distance: Approximately 13 km)
Depart Matsumoto city center at 6:00 AM by chartered vehicle and head to Utsukushigahara. We will hike a quiet and elegant section of the Utsukushigahara long Trail.The ridge stretching from Mt. Mitsumine to Mt. The trail from Futatsuyama to Mt.
Happo crosses two peaks and offers a stunning 360-degree panorama—stretching from the Northern Alps to the Yatsugatake Mountains, Mt. Norikura, and even Mt. Fuji. Along the way, we encountered only a handful of other hikers. The true charm of this course lies in its silence and sense of openness, as if you have the sky, mountains, and wind all to yourself.
The final stretch descends through forest to Tobira Onsen. This simple, locally loved by hot springs welcomes guests with tattoos. Anyone can relax and unwind here without hesitation.After the bath, head straight to the local eatery “Kakesu” next door. Raise a toast with warm food and cold beer. Truly, “a drink at Kakesu”—this is your reward for today
*Accommodation: Same as Day 1
We can arrange trekking, cycling, and other outdoor activities or cultural experiences in Matsumoto and surrounding areas according to your preferences.
We can also arrange transportation and accommodations when moving to the next area in the morning.
This itinerary is subject to change
