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Nagano

Japan, Asia

Nestled in the Japanese Alps, Nagano is renowned for its stunning mountain scenery, outdoor activities, and historical temples. It's famous for the 1998 Winter Olympics and offers excellent skiing in winter, beautiful hiking trails in summer, and the serene Zenko-ji Temple. The region's rich culture, hot springs, and iconic snow monkeys make it an ideal spot for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation in a picturesque setting.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Active

Airport

Toyama

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

12 Best Things to Do in Nagano

1. Visit Jigokudani Monkey Park

Observe wild snow monkeys bathing in hot springs.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

2. Explore Matsumoto Castle

Discover Japan's most beautiful original castle.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

3. Hike the Japanese Alps

Experience breathtaking views and stunning nature trails.

Seasonal

Adults only

No booking required

6 hrs

4. Enjoy Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort

Skiing and relaxing in natural hot springs.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

5 hrs

5. Visit Zenko-ji Temple

A historic temple housing a sacred Buddha statue.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

6. Taste Soba Noodles

Indulge in Nagano's famous hand-made soba noodles.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

7. Relax in Shibu Onsen

Traditional hot spring resort with charming accommodations.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

8. Visit the Nagano Prefectural Art Museum

Explore contemporary art in a beautiful setting.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

9. Experience Matsumoto's Nakamachi Street

Stroll through historic streets lined with traditional shops.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

10. Participate in the Matsumoto Summer Festival

Enjoy vibrant parades and local culture in summer.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

11. Visit the Togakushi Shrine

Discover ancient shrines amidst serene nature.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2.5 hrs

12. Explore the Obuse Town

Famous for chestnuts and Hokusai art museum.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-3 (#70 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Yen

Majority religion

Unaffiliated

Language

Japanese

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Curry Rice

Rice served with Japanese curry sauce. (National dish)

Sushi

Vinegared rice with raw fish or vegetables.

Ramen

Noodles in broth, often with meat or vegetables.

Tempura

Battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables.

Okonomiyaki

V

Savory pancake with various fillings and toppings.

Phrases to learn

English

Japanese

Hello

Konnichiwa

(Koh-nee-chee-wah)

Yes/No

Hai / Iie

(Hai / Ee-eh)

Thank you

Arigatou

(Ah-ree-gah-toh)

Excuse me

Sumimasen

(Soo-mee-mah-sen)

How much?

Ikura?

(Ee-koo-rah)