Nagano Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Nagano, Japan with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, hike, bike, eat, and stay in Nagano. Learn about the local culture and customs, as well as transportation options and logistics.


Introduction to Nagano

Nagano is a city in the Nagano prefecture, located in the Chubu region of Japan. Known for its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and active outdoor scene, Nagano is a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Nagano

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Nagano is home to several culturally significant attractions worth a visit, including:

  • Zenko-ji Temple: One of Japan’s oldest and most visited temples, Zenko-ji is a must-see attraction in Nagano.
  • Matsushiro Castle Ruins: This former castle site offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal period with its impressive walls, gates, and moats.
  • Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum: This modern museum showcases both local and international art exhibitions.
  • Jigokudani Monkey Park: Home to the famous ‘snow monkeys,’ this park is a unique experience where visitors can observe Japanese macaques bathing in hot springs.

Natural Attractions of Nagano: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nagano’s natural beauty is a major draw for tourists. The following are the must-visit places that showcase Nagano’s natural beauty:

  • Kamikochi: Known for its spectacular mountain scenery and hiking trails, Kamikochi is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Lake Suwa: This beautiful lake is popular for its picturesque views, boating, and fishing.
  • Togakushi Shrine: Located in a tranquil forest, the shrine’s natural surroundings and peaceful atmosphere are a draw for many visitors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nagano

Nagano is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with breathtaking hiking and biking routes. Some of the popular routes are:

  • The Nakasendo Trail: This trail passes through picturesque mountain villages and historic sites, including the Nakasendo Postal towns of Magome and Tsumago.
  • Mount Togakushi: Home to several hiking trails, each route offers stunning views of the surrounding mountain range.
  • Lake Kawaguchi: A popular biking route that passes through several towns and offers beautiful views of Mount Fuji.

Best Things to Do in Nagano: Activities and Tours

There are several exciting activities and tours to do in Nagano, including:

  • Skiing and Snowboarding: Nagano hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics, and several ski resorts offer world-class snow sports opportunities.
  • River Rafting: Nagano is an excellent destination for river rafting, with several rivers offering challenging rapids.
  • Sake Brewery Tours: Nagano has a thriving sake industry, and visitors can enjoy brewery tours and tastings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nagano

For a week-long exploration of Nagano, the following itinerary is recommended:

Day 1: Visit Zenko-ji Temple and Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum Day 2: Tour Matsushiro Castle Ruins and Jigokudani Monkey Park Day 3-4: Hike and explore Kamikochi Day 5: Visit Lake Suwa and enjoy water sports Day 6: Bike around Lake Kawaguchi Day 7: Take a brewery tour and enjoy sake tasting

Food and Drink Scene of Nagano

Must-Try Dishes

Nagano’s regional cuisine includes several must-try dishes, including:

  • Soba Noodles: Nagano is famous for its soba noodles, made from locally grown buckwheat.
  • Oyaki Bread: A savory bread stuffed with vegetables or sweet red bean paste.
  • Hoba Miso: A regional specialty of Nagano, Hoba Miso is a dish made of soybean paste, mushrooms, and other ingredients served on a magnolia leaf.

Local Beverages

In addition to sake, Nagano offers several other local beverages to try, such as:

  • Shinshu Apple Juice: Nagano’s climate is known for its quality apples, making Shinshu apple juice one of the most popular drinks in the region.
  • Craft Beer: Nagano has a thriving craft beer industry, and several microbreweries offer unique flavors and styles.

Where to Stay in Nagano: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several options for accommodation in Nagano, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some recommended options include:

  • Hotel Metropolitan Nagano: A centrally located hotel offering comfortable rooms and excellent amenities.
  • Guesthouse Kreutzer: A traditional Japanese guesthouse with a serene atmosphere and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Nozaru Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel that offers a mix of Japanese and Western-style rooms.

What to Buy in Nagano: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Nagano has several local products and souvenirs worth buying, including:

  • Soba Noodles: Nagano’s famous soba noodles are available to purchase and take home.
  • Shinshu Apples: These delicious apples are a popular local product that can be found at markets and stores throughout Nagano.
  • Oyaki Bread: The regional specialty of Nagano, oyaki bread, is a delicious souvenir to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Nagano

Nagano has a unique culture and customs worth understanding before visiting. For example, it is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, and it is considered impolite to tip in restaurants and bars.

Best Time to Visit Nagano

The best time to visit Nagano depends on individual preferences. Winter is an excellent time for snow sports, while spring is ideal for viewing cherry blossoms. Autumn offers breathtaking foliage, and summer is pleasant for hiking and outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nagano

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Visit outdoor attractions like Kamikochi and Mount Togakushi.

Don’t:

  • Wear shoes inside someone’s home.
  • Be loud or disruptive in public places.
  • Leave trash in nature when exploring outside.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nagano

Nagano is generally safe for tourists. However, it is always advisable to keep an eye on one’s belongings, especially in crowded areas. Remember to exercise caution when participating in outdoor activities, and always adhere to warning signs and guidelines.

Health in Nagano

Nagano has excellent healthcare facilities, and visitors can access care if needed. Tap water is safe to drink in most parts of Nagano, but it’s always wise to check with your accommodation to be sure.

Getting to Nagano: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nagano

The closest airport to Nagano is Narita International Airport in Tokyo. From there, visitors can take a train or bus to Nagano.

Bus Stations Near Nagano

Several bus lines operate in and around Nagano, providing easy and affordable transport for tourists.

Other Options

Train and taxi services are also available in Nagano, making it easy to explore the city and the surrounding area on your own.

How to Get Around in Nagano

Visitors can get around by train, bus, or taxi, as well as by bike or foot. The city is easy to navigate, and most of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Where to Go Next from Nagano: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nagano provides an excellent base to explore the surrounding areas, including:

  • Matsumoto: Home to Matsumoto Castle, a stunning feudal-era structure, and several museums and art galleries.
  • Kanazawa: A charming city known for its traditional architecture, beautiful gardens, and old-world charm.
  • Tokyo: The bustling capital of Japan offers endless attractions, from museums and shopping to dining and nightlife.

Conclusion

Nagano offers a blend of cultural and natural attractions, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. Plan your visit to Nagano, Japan, and experience the best of what the region has to offer.

Zenkō-ji Temple Zenkō-ji Temple Togakushi soba Togakushi soba Oyaki Oyaki