Kiso Ontake in Winter
Winter brings deep cold and snow to the region, with many of its popular walking trails snowbound and inaccessible. Imbuing the landscape with an atmosphere of magic, winter sees the welcome return of following activities to the Kiso Ontake Mouintain Range each year:
Shirakawa Ice Pillar
Located on the road from Kiso to Takayama, the Shirakawa Ice Pillars are a striking natural phenomena that occurs every winter when freezing temperatures create a huge ice pillar waterfall. Measuring 50 metres in height and an amazing 250 metres in width, this truly unique sight can only be seen from January to mid-February – best experienced with a private charter or tour.
Narai-juku Ice Candle Festival
Taking place during the first week of February each year, the Narai-juku Ice Candle Festival brings warmth and a quiet beauty into the cold winter night, as locals line the streets of Narai with numerous candles and ice sculptures. Climaxing with a beautiful fireworks display, this somewhat undiscovered festival won’t stay secret for long.
Kaida Plateau Kamakura Snow Festival
Also taking place in the first week of February, the Kaido Kogen Kamakura Snow Festival is enjoyed by local families. Large ‘kamakura’ (snow huts) are created from the local snow and ice, with activities including a ‘kiso-uma’ (horse-drawn) sled, snowshoe walking, snowmobiling, and of course, the chance to help make a snow hut.
Want to visit Narai-juku Post Town and Matsumoto Castle on a group tour?
Based in Central Japan and operating all year round, we offer a highly entertaining group-tour of Matsumoto Castle and Narai-juku that is sure to please. All tours are led by locally-based guides and include a visit to the faithfully preserved Matsumoto castle with a walk and seasonal activity in the charming town of Narai-juku. Our tours are fun, interactive and family-friendly. For more information, or to book a tour, click on the banner or button below.
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Experience Matsumoto Castle and Narai-juku | |
| Period | All Year Round |
| Time | 08:15 – 18:15 |
| Meeting Place | Nagano Station Matsumoto Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥23,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥11,900 |
Of course, we also offer private tours and transport in and around the Matsumoto and Kiso Valley area, as well as other regional destinations. Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations in combination with any activity that suits your schedule. All vehicles are well-maintained and in good condition, allowing you to relax and enjoy your ride to wherever you are going.
We can arrange both private tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter, including a private vehicle and driver but without a guide. We’d love to be part of your adventure in Central Japan and help you discover even more!
Got a question about visiting Matsumoto or the Nakasendo? Click the ‘INQUIRY’ button below or contact us and let’s get planning together!
