Excursion Matsusaka beef and merchant town walk tour at Toba

This full-day tour from the pier immerses you in Matsusaka's rich merchant history, culture, and culinary traditions, featuring preserved historical residences and an unforgettable Matsusaka beef meal.

Matsusaka Merchant Town

Your tour begins at the pier, where you board a medium coach for a scenic 65-minute transfer to Matsusaka Merchant Town, a district known for its prosperous Edo-period merchants. After arrival, you will take a short walk to the Matsusaka Merchant Town Tourist Information Center, where you receive an introduction to the history, culture, and economic influence of the Matsusaka merchant families.

Former Ozu Seizaemon House and Former Hasegawa Jirobei House

Next, continue on foot to visit two beautifully preserved residences Former Ozu Seizaemon House – A traditional merchant estate showcasing refined Edo-period architecture and the lifestyle of one of the region’s most prominent merchant families and Former Hasegawa Jirobei House – Another meticulously preserved residence offering insight into Matsusaka’s wealthy merchant class, their trade networks, and domestic environment.

Matsusaka beef lunch

Following your historical exploration, enjoy a 90-minute Matsusaka beef lunch at a local restaurant. Matsusaka beef is one of Japan’s most renowned wagyu varieties, prized for its exquisite marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor. Your set menu includes a 150g steak, soup, rice, pickles, salad, appetizer, and dessert, along with two beverages (beer, wine, whisky, sake, or soft drink).

After this memorable culinary experience, walk back to the bus parking area and enjoy a relaxing 60-minute coach ride returning to the pier.

Note

Please Note: This tour involves approximately 1.1 km of walking (0.68 miles) and several small steps; it is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or wheelchair users. Lightweight clothing, flat closed-toe walking shoes, and sun protection are recommended. Alcoholic beverages are only available to guests aged 20 and over. Tour sequence may vary. Local guides may have strong accents, so flexibility is appreciated. No alternative meal menus are available. Photography and video are permitted; flash use is generally acceptable unless instructed otherwise. Restrooms are available at selected stops and at the lunch venue. Complimentary water is provided on the coach, which does not have a restroom. Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior the cruise.