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
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

12 Best Things to Do in Nagano

1

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Visit Jigokudani Monkey Park

Observe wild snow monkeys bathing in hot springs.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Matsumoto Castle

Discover Japan's most beautiful original castle.

No booking required
3

Est. 6 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Hike the Japanese Alps

Experience breathtaking views and stunning nature trails.

No booking required
4

Est. 5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Enjoy Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort

Skiing and relaxing in natural hot springs.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Zenko-ji Temple

A historic temple housing a sacred Buddha statue.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste Soba Noodles

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

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax in Shibu Onsen

Traditional hot spring resort with charming accommodations.

Booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Nagano Prefectural Art Museum

Explore contemporary art in a beautiful setting.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience Matsumoto's Nakamachi Street

Stroll through historic streets lined with traditional shops.

No booking required
10

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Participate in the Matsumoto Summer Festival

Enjoy vibrant parades and local culture in summer.

No booking required
11

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Togakushi Shrine

Discover ancient shrines amidst serene nature.

No booking required
12

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Obuse Town

Famous for chestnuts and Hokusai art museum.

No booking required

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)