Best Castle Day Trips in Japan — Our Top 4

1.Himeji Castle, Arima Onsen & Mt. Rokko Day Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 339 reviews · 10 hours · from $53Our pick

Review of the Osaka day tour to Himeji Castle, Koko-en, Arima Onsen, and Mt. Rokko, with practical advice on value, timing, lunch, and guides.

“Liu/Nick was very professional. He was informative and helpful to the guests. We learned a lot from him. He goes above and beyond to answer any questions you have and was the best tour guide we’ve had in Japan. Also, this tour allows sufficient free time and plenty of delicious food. We strongly recommend booking tours with Liu/Nick as your guide.”

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2.1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 105 reviews · from $201Top rated

See Matsumoto Castle and alpine Kamikochi in one guided day from Nagano, with transport, castle entry, walks, and free time included.

“We really enjoyed the day. Both the castle and the walk were great, and our guide made the trip especially memorable.”

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3.Full-Day Tour: Matsumoto Castle & Kamikochi Alpine Valley

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 78 reviews · 12 hours · from $180

Visit Matsumoto Castle, Frog Street, and Kamikochi on a long but rewarding English guided day trip from Nagano.

“Our guide was amazing, she made sure everybody had a great time. We got so much beautiful photos and this was definitely the highlight of our trip. Although the tour is a bit expensive, it is well worth as it is only a small group and you will be well taken care of”

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4.1 Day Tour From Nagano to Matsumoto Castle and Narai-Juku

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 37 reviews · from $201

Review of Nagano’s Matsumoto Castle and Narai-juku tour, with transport, costs, timing, highlights, drawbacks, and practical booking advice.

“i think for us the Narai-juku post town was the highlight of our tour. A cart came by and we ate the traditional sweet potato. A great experience to just stroll down the longest post office street. The Frog Street was ok ( I don't like frogs haRead more”

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