Explore Nagano
A Haven of Nature, History, and Outdoor Adventures

Nagano Prefecture, nestled in the heart of Japan’s mountainous region, is a premier destination known for its breathtaking alpine scenery, rich cultural heritage, and world-class outdoor activities. Whether you're seeking ski resorts, historic temples, or traditional hot springs, Nagano offers something for every traveler.

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Best Food in Nagano: Must-Try Local Dishes

Nagano is famous for its hearty mountain cuisine, fresh produce, and unique delicacies.

  • Shinshu Soba: High-quality buckwheat noodles served cold with dipping sauce or in a warm broth.
  • Oyaki: A delicious dumpling filled with vegetables, miso, or sweet red bean paste.
  • Nozawana Pickles: A signature pickled green vegetable, commonly enjoyed with rice or in onigiri.
  • Shinshu Apple Products: Nagano’s apples are among Japan’s best, available fresh, as juice, or in desserts.
  • Basashi (Horse Sashimi): A delicacy often served in traditional izakayas, offering a lean and flavorful experience.

Nagano Festivals & Events: Seasonal Highlights

Nagano hosts a variety of vibrant festivals celebrating history, tradition, and nature.

  • Zenkoji Temple Gokaicho (Every 7 Years): A rare event where the hidden Buddha statue at Zenkoji Temple is revealed to the public.
  • Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival (January): A dramatic festival featuring massive wooden structures set ablaze in a ritual for good fortune.
  • Suwa Onbashira Festival (April-May, Every 6 Years): A daring event where men ride massive logs down steep slopes to renew Suwa Shrine.
  • Kiso Ontake Ice Festival (February): A winter wonderland featuring illuminated ice sculptures and traditional performances.
  • Shinano Omachi Snow Festival (February): A celebration of Nagano’s deep snow, featuring snow lanterns, fireworks, and cultural performances.

Outdoor Activities in Nagano: Things to Do Year-Round

Nagano’s diverse landscapes offer an array of outdoor adventures for all seasons.

  • Skiing & Snowboarding in Hakuba: A world-class ski destination with deep powder and excellent facilities.
  • Hiking in Kamikochi: A stunning highland valley with crystal-clear rivers, lush forests, and breathtaking mountain views.
  • Snow Monkey Watching in Jigokudani: Observe wild Japanese macaques soaking in natural hot springs during winter.
  • Cycling the Nakasendo Trail: Ride through preserved Edo-period post towns, including Narai and Tsumago.
  • Hot Spring Bathing in Nozawa Onsen: Experience one of Japan’s most famous onsen towns with free public baths.

Must-Visit Places in Nagano: Top Attractions

Nagano is home to numerous cultural landmarks, natural wonders, and historic sites.

  • Zenkoji Temple: One of Japan’s most important Buddhist temples, attracting pilgrims for over 1,400 years.
  • Matsumoto Castle: A beautifully preserved "Black Crow" castle, offering incredible history and scenic views.
  • Togakushi Shrine: A sacred site linked to Japanese mythology, surrounded by ancient cedar trees.
  • Kiso Valley & Nakasendo Trail: A historic route with well-preserved Edo-era post towns.
  • Lake Suwa: A picturesque lake known for its natural hot springs and breathtaking seasonal views.

Getting Around Nagano: Public Transportation Guide

Nagano’s efficient transportation system makes exploring the region easy.

  • Hokuriku Shinkansen: Connects Tokyo to Nagano in under 90 minutes.
  • Alpico Express Buses: Provide access to popular destinations like Kamikochi, Hakuba, and Matsumoto.
  • Nagano Electric Railway: Offers easy access to Jigokudani Monkey Park and Yudanaka Onsen.
  • Matsumoto Dentetsu Line: Connects Matsumoto with the beautiful alpine areas of Norikura and Kamikochi.
  • Car Rentals: Recommended for visiting remote areas and scenic mountain routes.

Best Hotels in Nagano: Where to Stay

From luxury resorts to cozy mountain lodges, Nagano offers accommodations for all travelers.

  • Luxury Hotels: Stay at KAI Alps, a premium onsen resort surrounded by nature.
  • Traditional Ryokan: Experience Japanese hospitality at Yudanaka Seifuso Ryokan, featuring natural hot springs.
  • Hot Spring Resorts: Unwind at Nozawa Grand Hotel, offering scenic onsen baths.
  • Budget-Friendly Hotels: Enjoy affordable stays at Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu, located near Matsumoto Castle.
  • Ski Resorts: Stay at Hakuba Tokyu Hotel, providing ski-in/ski-out access and stunning alpine views.

Nagano’s Cultural Heritage: Experience Unique Traditions

Nagano preserves its deep cultural roots through temples, samurai history, and traditional crafts.

  • Togakushi Ninja Village: Learn about Japan’s ninja heritage in this interactive museum and training center.
  • Zen Meditation at Zenkoji Temple: Participate in a traditional meditation session led by Buddhist monks.
  • Miso Brewing Experience: Discover the art of miso-making in Nagano, one of Japan’s top miso-producing regions.
  • Traditional Woodworking in Kiso Valley: Try your hand at crafting wooden items in this historic region.
  • Washi Paper Making in Uchiyama: Learn how to create beautiful handmade paper, a centuries-old craft in Nagano.

Best Souvenirs from Nagano: What to Buy

Take home a piece of Nagano with these locally crafted souvenirs.

  • Shinshu Miso: Aged miso with a rich and savory taste, perfect for home cooking.
  • Nagano Apples & Cider: Enjoy Japan’s best apples in fresh, dried, or cider form.
  • Kiso Lacquerware: Exquisite handcrafted wooden bowls, trays, and chopsticks.
  • Nozawana Pickles: A traditional Nagano specialty, ideal for pairing with rice.
  • Soba Noodles & Flour: High-quality handmade soba, perfect for recreating authentic Nagano flavors at home.

Plan Your Nagano Adventure Today!

From historic temples and scenic hiking trails to relaxing hot springs and world-class ski resorts, Nagano offers a perfect mix of adventure and culture. Whether you're exploring ancient samurai paths or soaking in a natural onsen, Nagano is a must-visit destination in Japan.

For more travel inspiration, check out our Japan travel guides and start planning your trip to Nagano today!