nagano winter travel

5 Things to Do in Nagano in Winter

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Nagano is a prefecture—an administrative jurisdiction traditionally known for being governed by a prefect— located in the Chubu Region, two hours north and west of Tokyo.

If you were to label Nagano, in terms of what it is as a prefecture, it’s one of the most subtly beautiful regions in the world.

The beauty of Nagano is intrinsic and almost secretive – Odds are, you’ve probably never heard of Nagano, although it’s a popular holiday terminus.

The town is quite literally a scene from an artist’s portfolio; the kind of place that you only see in fantasy movies.

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What to Expect from Nagano in Winter

In the winter, the region experiences a lavish amount of snow, turning the flaming reds, oranges, yellows, and gentle breezes of the fall season into an icy wonderland of subdued and finespun elegance.

In short, it’s the perfect spot to intertwine yourself with the wonderment of nature, find some peace and relaxation, and just absorb the natural beauty of this serene location.

If you already have your bags packed and ready to go, you may want to take a moment and look over all of the things that you can do while visiting Nagano.

With That Being Said: Here is a list of the five, best things to do and visit while on vacation to Nagano. 

1. Matsumoto Castle

If you’re interested in Japanese architecture, visiting Matsumoto Castle exemplifies Asuka and Nara architecture.

Also known as the Crow Castle, it is the oldest castle in the entire country, dating back to the 16th century. It’s designated as a national treasure and it’s not difficult to see why. 

The astounding nature of its pristine location, with five stories, towering over the water, which reflects this ancient castle from the Momoyama and Edo era with almost perfect clarity.

It is nestled amongst the Northern Japan Alps and is a must-stop for anyone who is interested in Japanese history and the arrival of Buddhism into the country.

It is one of only 12, original castles in Japan and it earned the nickname “Crow Castle” because of its black walls.

Over its long existence, the castle exchanged hands through violent sieges and it even survived an attempt to have it razed to the ground in the 1800s. 

Some believe that the curse of Tada Kasuke hovers over the castle like a thick fog and is primarily responsible for the degradation and eventual leaning of the Tenshu, during the Meiji period.

There is a lot of history to be found here and it only adds to the inherent and lasting beauty of the place and its surroundings.

It is strategically located, practically on a peninsula, and what was once the architectural result of war and combat, directly resulted in the stunning view and gorgeous landscape that serves as the castle’s backdrop today.

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2. Nosawa Onsen Hot Springs

Warmth is always what one seeks in the middle of a cold and relentless winter.

Nothing provides a better and more tranquil warmth than submerging into the soul-fulfilling depths of the hot springs at Nosawa Onsen.

Despite the fact that it is a ski town, outside of Nagano, it is well within even the most limited travel constraints and belongs on your list of places to visit while in Nagano. 

When you are on location in Nosawa Onsen, the hot baths are all within walking distance of one another and won’t be hard to find, seeing as they are a primary attraction for tourists in the area. 

Better Yet – The springs lie at the foot of Mount Kenashi, so you will be afforded breathtaking views wherever you go within this sleepy little town’s parameters. 

The waters of the Nosawa Onsen hot springs are drawn directly from the famous Ogama Spring and some are housed within the interior of several wooden facilities, while others are outside.

Of course, the hot springs are what makes Nosawa Onsen a popular destination and they have been there—at least in the historical record—since the Edo Period from the early 1600s to the mid to late 19th century.

The springs are freely open to the public, so unlike many tourist destinations in the area, you don’t have to pay to access them. 

3. Kamakura no Sato

Kamakura no Sato are snow huts that are obviously only available during the cold winter months. They are located in Iiyama City, which itself is located within Nagano.

While the huts don’t resemble anything extraordinary, in terms of architectural complexity, they are wonderful on the inside.

Touring these minuscule snow huts is an exercise in fine dining, where you can even try that local favorite, “hot pot” which is made from all-natural and locally gathered ingredients and includes pork and vegetables.

It’s the perfect meal for draining the cold from your bones after a long day in the cold. 

If you plan your visit for mid-February, you’ll have the opportunity to catch the Kamakura Festival.

Kamakura stands for igloo and the festival that shares its moniker is an entertaining event with a ton of activities for the kids and a fireworks show.

Amazing Experience: For all of the other nights of the year, the Kamajua no Sato are lit up at night, presenting awe-struck tourists with a landscape of frozen, snowy color as the lights reflect off of the snow. It’s like an icy village of Hobbits come to life, straight out of a fantasy fairytale.

4. Togakushi Shrine

If you’re looking for a little magic on your journey to this striking and beautiful destination, you have to visit the Togakushi Shrine at the base of Mount Togakushi.

There are five shrines at this location and their mystical properties are only heightened when their tops are covered in a fine layer of white snow. 

Before you start your hike over miles of territory that is covered in ancient cedar trees, you can stop at the shrine’s tourist center for a hot meal of Togakushi Soba Noodles.

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The best part about this area is the snow caps.

You’ll Love It – Coming here in the winter will give you a heart-stopping view of an entire world that goes back for several millennia, all covered in blankets of crisp, white snow.

If the historical wonderment and shrouded mystique of these historic shrines fail to impress, the view certainly will. 

5. Nakasendo Trail

One of the best reasons to travel to Nagano is the jaw-dropping wonderment of the scenery.

It’s quite literally breathtaking in its subtle beauty and you can only, truly appreciate it through quiet contemplation. 

The Nakasendo Trail is the perfect excuse to get out and try to take in all of the wonderful sites and sounds of Nagano. 

You had better prepare yourself before you set out. These trails are numerous and were originally designed to connect Tokyo and Kyoto.

What to Expect: While you will be impressed with massive and open views of the local town and scenery, there is a ton of real estate to cover, so it’s important to pack well for the journey.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for things to do in Nagano in winter, it is one of the most beautiful locations in Japan and well worth your time.

You will want to explore everything and, indeed, this geographical location is full of places to see and things to view.

In fact, a list of five doesn’t even begin to cover the entirety of this historic and gorgeous slice of heaven on earth. 

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The 15 Best Things To Do & Places to Visit in Nagano Japan in Winter

August 18, 2022 12 min read

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The 15 Best Things To Do & Places to Visit in Nagano Japan in Winter

Written for Auski by Pink Lemonade Social

Among the many countries in Asia, Japan is one of the most abundantly endowed with breathtaking landscapes and tourist attractions and is loved by Aussie travellers. Although Japan is beautiful in all four seasons due to its varied landscape, winter in Nagano is particularly stunning. Nagano, in Japan's Chubu region, is home to beautiful mountains and landscapes, and is known as a popular destination for winter sports thanks to its mild climate and abundance of snow. During the warmer months of the year (summer, spring, and fall), Nagano becomes a mecca for the many hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who flock there for the thrill of its beautiful mountains and landscapes. In winter it is a mecca for those seeking deep powder snow and an adrenaline rush and offers some of the best slopes in the country because of the area's powdery mountains. Nagano is home to the northern Japanese Alps, many of which stand taller than 10,000 feet (3,048 metres) in elevation. The large ski resorts of Hakuba and Nozawa in Nagano prefecture are always bustling with visitors. There are plenty of snow resorts in the mountains, as well as opportunities for backcountry snowshoeing and skiing.

However, that's not the only reason to travel to Nagano in the winter; the city is also known for its delicious mountain cuisine, seasonal festivals, and onsen, the pinnacle of après-ski relaxation. Below are the best things to do in Nagano in winter.

The 15 Best Things to Do in Winter in Nagano

Visit the historical kiso valley.

Kiso Valley, located in southwestern Nagano, is an enchanted place and one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. Visit the valley's sacred Mt. Ontake, charming historic towns, and the well-preserved section of the ancient Nakasendo merchant trail for a fascinating journey back in time. There are a few post towns along the Kiso Valley that have been preserved to look as they did when they served Nakasendo travellers, and three of these towns stand out in particular: Magome, Tsumago, and Narai. The wooden structures and cobblestone streets transport guests to a time gone by. The Kiso Valley, a mountain valley in Nagano Prefecture that borders the Central Alps features the Kisoji, a 70-kilometer-long ancient trade route, established along the valley and played a crucial role in the region's economic development.

Beginning in the Edo period, when the Kisoji was combined with other routes to form the 500 km long Nakasendo, it assumed even greater significance. The Nakasendo (which literally means "path through mountains") was one of the two main roads that linked Edo and Kyoto.

All over the valley are breathtaking gorges, rivers, waterfalls, and mountain trails that will captivate your imagination and calm your spirit. If you love being transported back in time, you should definitely check out the ancient towns of Kiso Valley that have been preserved so well under a blanket of snow.

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Experience the Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival

The Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival is one of the best three fire festivals in all of Japan. The celebration is held annually in the middle of winter on January 15th. As night falls in Nozawa Onsen, men light up the night with their fierce battles in celebration of the festival. The story focuses on a group of unfortunate Japanese men between the ages of 25 and 42 who live in a rural village. Many residents of Nozawa Onsen attempt to destroy a temporary shrine known as a shaden by lighting torches and storming the structure, but a group of 42-year-olds and 25-year-olds stand guard at its top and bottom, respectively. The festival's goals are twofold: to rid the unlucky men of their misfortune and to pray for their health and success. Despite the mayhem and fierce competition, the festival is a good time and a great addition to any trip to Japan.

Enjoy the Iiyama Snow Festival

Iiyama City, located in northern Nagano Prefecture, is one of Japan's regions that receives significant snowfall every winter. In the middle of February, during the snowy winter season, this city hosts the Iiyama Snow Festival, drawing in thousands of visitors from all over the world. At this winter festival, enormous snow sculptures serve as the showpiece, while smaller ones line the streets of the city centre. The competition and evaluation of sculptures is a central part of this festival. Wonderful snow sculptures depicting a wide variety of Japanese themes will be on display here.

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Soak up the Culture at Nagano Tomyo Festival

As a commemoration of the city's Buddhist heritage and the 1998 Winter Olympics, Nagano Tomyo has been celebrated annually for a full week in the middle of February since 2004. One of the most well-attended events in Nagano involves lighting the city in the five Olympic colours and adorning the main street leading to the temple with hundreds of gorgeous handmade paper lanterns. Besides the lighting ceremony, there will be other events going on, such as a sake tasting, live music, and an art show. This is a great festival to enjoy if you are in the region in February.

Enjoy a Magical Meal at Restaurant Kamakura Village

What is Restaurant Kamakura Village? Well in Nagano, it’s an intimate igloo village which is actually a restaurant with all the enchantment of a snowy landscape. Eat a nabe hot pot in the comfort of your own igloo at the temporary Restaurant Kamakura Village in Iiyama. The magical Restaurant Kamakura Village, comprised of more than 20 pop-up igloos, is not to be missed if you like to plan your trips around meals. Located in the picturesque town of Iiyama in the prefecture of Nagano, Japan, the restaurant boasts a picturesque setting amidst the snowy Japanese Alps. The seasonal restaurant opens every winter for a little over a month. Visitors can warm their bodies and minds with hot-pot dishes and Liyama specialities cooked over portable clay stoves. The village becomes a romantic dreamscape as night falls and the lights come on. Noroshi nabe, a hot pot made with miso, pork, and local vegetables, will be served to groups of up to four in each of the igloos. The igloos are perfect for enjoying a hearty meal for lunch or dinner, or a quick snack like amazake or soup. You'll find a chilly Shinto shrine in an igloo behind a tiny red torii gate. The area immediately outside the restaurant is ideal for sledding, and those visiting the area's ski resorts might want to stop in for a bite to eat before or after their runs. The cost of lunch in Kamakura Village is 3,700 yen (2,400 yen for children), while dinner for two with noroshi nabe, onigiri rice balls, and exclusive use of an igloo is 4,200 yen (2,800 yen for children). For 1,800 yen (1,200 for kids), you can rent a private igloo between 3 and 4 p.m., enjoy a cup of amazake or soup, and ride in a snow car.

Image: Instagram/@visitjapan.ru

Discover Zenko-ji Omotesando

Over 1400 years have passed since Zenkoji's original construction, and it has since become a true temple of the common people, welcoming all visitors from across the nation and around the world, regardless of their religious affiliation.

The Zenko-ji Omotesando Illumination takes place every winter and transforms the road leading to the temple, known as the Omotesando or 'Pilgrims Path,' into a dazzling spectacle. Beginning in early November and continuing through mid-February, the Omotesando will be lit up to create a glowing path to the temple. Then, beginning in the middle of December, the temple's precinct will be illuminated with lighting and projections that will transform the building into a phantasmal Buddhist paradise of purple and violet, silver and gold.

There is no admission fee to enter any part of the temple, including the holy inner sanctuary. Despite its popularity, the festival is not overrun with people, so attendees can take in the sights without being squished and get great photos without waiting in long lines. Many shops along the Nakamise, the historic street within the temple complex, will extend their hours during the festival. This is a great way to see the city after dark, especially in the brightly lit up Omotesando district.

See the Great Ho-O at Ganshoin Temple

The ancient Ganshoin Temple can be found hidden away in Obuse, located in northern Nagano Prefecture, and hosts one of the finest examples of Japanese art can. In 1848, at the age of 89, a painter by the name of Hokusai created a masterpiece that is still widely recognised and appreciated today. The ceiling of the temple is still covered with his final masterpiece, which has been carefully preserved over the years.

About thirty years after the last reconstruction of Ganshoin, one of Japan's greatest artists, Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849), painted a beautiful ceiling picture called "The Great Ho-O" (Phoenix Staring in eight Directions). Since the bird appears to stare directly at the viewer from any angle, the painting is also known as "Ho-O Staring in eight directions."

There have been nearly three reconstructions of this ancient temple, the most recent of which was 180 years ago. The artwork measures a massive 584 by 636 cm. Twelve panels of cypress wood were painted directly, then raised and mounted to the ceiling. Colours of red, green, blue, brown, and gold shine brightly in this high-calibre masterpiece.

Image: Instagram/ayako2190

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Go Snowshoeing in the Japanese Alps

Travellers looking for an off-the-beaten-track winter experience should take a snowshoeing tour around Kamikochi, Nagano's most well-known national park. On these walks, you’ll wear snow shoes, which allow access to areas of Kamikochi’s dusted slopes that you might otherwise miss. The tours are led by informative guides. There is a chance to see winter wildlife that is only found in the Nagano Alps and take in the stunning alpine scenery, which includes mountainside ranch trails, frozen ponds, and icefalls. The city of Nagano undergoes a dramatic transformation in the winter. Many people find this season to be one of the most beautiful despite the fact that it can feel particularly cold and harsh. This untouched valley at the foot of the Japanese Alps offers breathtaking views of the Hotaka Mountains. There are no buses to Kamikochi and no facilities open in the winter at the park, but the beautiful scenery is still there if you're willing to walk. Walking two kilometres through the Kama Tunnel and then snowshoeing along the riverbank is the only way to see the mountains and the crystal clear Azusa River. Having the lakes, forests, and mountains of Kamikochi to yourself is a challenge, but it is well worth it.

Watch Climbers Scale Frozen Waterfalls

One of Nagano Prefecture's most popular tourist attractions is Norikura Kogen, a nature preserve in Matsumoto known for its stunning waterfalls. Zengorou and Sanbon waterfalls are two that you absolutely must see, and they both freeze over in the winter. Take a trip to the falls and marvel at the enchanting scenery, as well as the possibility of viewing some icy entertainment. The falls themselves are a picturesque sight, and the icy landscape adds a sense of mystery to the scene. If you're lucky, though, you might catch a glimpse of a professional climber making their way up the frozen cascade in spite of the fact that only they are allowed to do so. You can also partake in a snowshoe tour to Sanbon waterfall (7,000 yen per adult / 5,000 yen per child for a half-day tour).

Image: Instagram/guesthouse_raicho

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Soak it up at Shibu Onsen

Shibu Onsen is a mountainous town in Nagano known for its traditional onsens. Going to Shibu Onsen is like taking a time machine back in history. Historic buildings and a laid-back vibe characterise this charming hot springs community. You can feel like you've stepped back in time as you stroll along the cobblestone streets lined with traditional wooden Japanese inns and dotted with shrines. Shibu Onsen is a well-known hot springs resort that has been around for more than a thousand years. There are nine sotoyu, or public baths, in Shibu Onsen, and if you're staying at one of them, you can use any of the baths for free. There are a wide variety of therapeutic and preventative baths available. Staying at one of these establishments will allow you to take a soothing dip in the cloudy, milky-white waters of a natural hot spring. You will also have the opportunity to sample some of the regional specialities. You can relax your body and mind by taking a dip in a cloudy hot spring after a day of exploring the town. Evenings are best spent wandering the narrow streets in a yukata robe and geta wooden sandals, hopping from onsen to izakaya. The Tamamura Brewery, located close to Shibu Onsen, produces some excellent local sake which is worth a stop.

See the Snow Monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park

Jigokudani Monkey Park, one of Nagano's most popular tourist destinations, is located not far from Shibu Onsen. Tourists from all over the world visit this park specifically to see the nearly one hundred Japanese macaques that call it home that enjoy soaking in hot springs. There are no fences separating the monkeys and the visitors, so it's easy to get a good look at them as they soak in the hot tub in the middle of a snowy park. Japanese onsen bathing has a long and storied history, with the earliest records dating back to around AD 600. It is not just humans who enjoy soaking in the hot springs of Nagano; local wildlife does as well. The reserve is also a great place to go walking or hiking, but the trails can get muddy, so be sure to bring a pair of waterproof boots.

Image: Instagram/nirro04

Image: Instagram/nagano_japan

Visit Togakushi Shrine in the Snow

Togakushi is a Shinto site with five shrines that can be reached by walking along a path lined with Japanese cedar trees, making it a tranquil getaway for those who enjoy being one with nature. Visitng Togakushi Shrine in the winter is stunning, though you might need snowshoes to get there. Relax in the mystical atmosphere of the ancient forest surrounding the Shinto shrine, where the cedar trees are over 500 years old. Following the cedar-lined path, you might be able to spot the frozen waterfall not far away.

Go Skiing at Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort

When visiting Nagano in the winter, skiing is a must, and the best place to do it is at what is widely considered to be the city's finest ski resort. The Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort is fully stocked with everything a family or serious skier could need, including beginner and advanced slopes, rental equipment, the Escal Plaza, which is adjacent to the resort and is home to numerous dining and drinking establishments, and convenient lifts and slopes. Families can take advantage of the resort's indoor play area inspired by a forest setting, as well as the outdoor sledding hills and small slopes, during their stay at Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort.

Skiers in Nagano often recommend Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort as the best spot to hit the slopes. Hakuba, tucked away in northern Nagano, is a popular winter sports destination thanks to its high-quality snow and world-famous ski resorts. As a matter of fact, the 1998 Winter Olympics in Japan were held there. In just under three hours, you can take the train from Tokyo to this location. Some of the best ski resorts in Japan can be found in the Hakuba Valley, where both novices and experts can enjoy snowshoeing, snow biking, snowboarding , and heli-skiing. You can also find a wide variety of bars, restaurants, and shops in this picturesque ski town.

Image: Instagram/anni3ban

Image: Instagram/kamizoh2568

Visit Nozawa Onsen Village

After skiing all day on Nagano's excellent powder and getting your joints stiff from the exercise and the cold, a soak in a bubbling hot natural spring is just what the doctor ordered. If you're looking for a place to relax in a hot spring while in Nagano, then there is no better than Nozawa, a town with a long history of onsen bathing in Japan. In this village, where there are more than 30 onsens to choose from, the culture centres on taking a relaxing soak. One of the most well-known free onsen is the Yu Hot Spring, which can be found in the heart of Nozawa and is housed in a traditional wooden bath house in the Edo style. During the Edo period (1603-1867), Nozawa Onsen was a popular destination for those seeking both natural hot spring baths and skiing. Be wary of jumping straight into the onsen, as the temperature of these alkaline waters can reach levels suitable for cooking eggs (seriously!). Public baths, or sotoyu, are usually between 45 and 49 degrees Celsius, but there are special stations in the middle of town where you can boil eggs in spring water that reaches up to 90 degrees Celsius to make your own onsen tamago.

Visit Matsumoto Castle & the Ice Sculpture Festival

If you're lucky enough to see Matsumoto Castle when it's covered in snow, it's absolutely stunning, which is why it should be on your list of things to do in winter. The keep of Matsumoto Castle has been meticulously maintained and looks largely as it did when it was built in the 16th century. The grounds of the castle can be explored at no cost at any time of the year, but they look especially magical when blanketed in fresh snow. The locals offer free guided tours of Matsumoto Castle in various languages, and if you happen to visit during a busy time, you might just get lucky and get on one.

Matsumoto Ice Sculpture Festival is an annual event that takes place in January and is surrounded by the majestic backdrop of Matsumoto Castle. From Friday through Sunday, festivalgoers can watch ice sculptors at work, sample local fare and Japanese sake, and take part in a variety of kid- and adult-friendly events. Keep your eyes open for imaginative sculptures of dragons, mermaids, and horsemen. Visit at dusk to see the sculptures illuminated in vibrant colours, which makes them even more beautiful.

Image: Instagram/images_and_words_by_petra

Take A Vacation, Stay Warm, And Recharge

Nagano is not only a wonderful getaway in summer and autumn, but also in the winter. There is no way a visitor wouldn't fall in love at first sight with all the breathtaking views and amazing activities available. Visiting Nagano in the winter is not discouraged, so get ready to experience the awesomeness of the city for yourself by packing your bags.

Know another great place to visit in Nagano? Leave a comment below!

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• Photography

The Land of the Rising Sun remains closed off to foreigners, but that doesn’t mean we can’t dream of a getaway. Nagano is the capital city of Nagano Prefecture, and it also happens to be a popular winter destination in Japan. Its snow-covered mountains make it a top location for snow sports, but those aren’t the only things to do in Nagano. There are also delicious mountain cuisine, seasonal festivals and of course – onsen! Here are the six best things to do in Nagano during winter.

1. Visit Zenkoji

Zenkoji is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Japan. In fact, the development of Nagano revolved around the temple. No matter the season, a visit to Zenkoji is a must. The temple was founded in the 7th century and it houses the very first Buddhist statue brought into Japan. The original statue is kept away, while a copy of it is displayed to the public every six years. The next showing was supposed to be in 2021, but due to Covid-19 it’s been postponed to 2022. At the temple, you can also stroll within the grounds, and explore different parts of the temple such as the pagoda that serves as the Zenkoji History Museum.

2. See the snow monkeys at Jigokudani

In Nagano, not only the humans take dips in hot springs. Perhaps the most famous thing about Nagano are the snow monkeys at Jigokudani. These monkeys come to soak in natural hot springs to keep themselves warm on the cold winter days! It is a unique sight only available in winter, so it’s no surprise that many people visit during this time. You can take pictures with them, but make sure to keep a safe distance as they are still wild animals. And also make sure to wear good shoes – the area provides ample hiking opportunities!

3. Go skiing, snowboarding or snowshoeing

Hit the slopes and experience winter sports! There are a number of ski resorts that will keep you occupied with things to do in Nagano. One of them is Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort , which offers both beginner and advanced slopes. Not big on skiing or snowboarding? Snowshoeing is one of the most popular activities here! The resort is also very family-friendly, and those visiting with children will enjoy both the indoor and outdoor areas for kids to enjoy. There are also tons of dining options available.

4. Take a dip at Nozawa Onsen

After a full day of Nagano’s powder, warm up your bones with a hot dip. One of the best onsen spots is Nozawa, a traditional Japanese onsen village. It dates back to the 8th century and it’s renowned for its hot springs and traditional ryokan since the Edo period. Life still revolves around the bathing culture here with over 30 onsen to choose from! You can stay at one of the ryokan or at Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort to hit the slopes the next day. If you’re here in January, make sure to check out the annual Nozawa Fire Festival (more about this next!)

5. Attend a winter festival

In winter, the landscape of Nagano turns white. As snow falls steadily in the mountains, it’s that time of year for winter sports, hot springs and winter festivals. Why stay inside when you could warm up in a magnificent fire festival? Nozawa Fire Festival is one of the biggest fire festivals in Japan . 25 and 42 are considered “unlucky” ages, and men in the village of this age have to prepare and defend a large wooden shrine. As the sun sets, the older men will climb up the shrine, while the younger men approach below. The madness begins when the men attempt to throw flaming torches at the structure and struggle with its “defenders”. The shrine eventually catches fire, but don’t worry, by this time the defenders have moved away to safety. 

6. Hike the Nakasendo Trail

The Nakasendo Trail is a historic route that connected Tokyo – then Edo – and Kyoto during the Edo Period (1603-1868). Though much of the original route is gone now, several sections can still be hiked. This includes the picturesque Kisoji in Kiso Valley. Several post towns here particularly Magome, Tsumago and Narai have been preserved to look the way they did centuries ago. Today, visitors come from all over Japan and the world to explore the stone paths and wooden buildings of a bygone era.

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Mountain adventures at Japan's Alps

Top attractions in nagano.

Jigokudani Monkey Park

Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto City Museum of Art

Zenkoji Temple

Around nagano.

Many people think of Matsumoto in Nagano prefecture as an overnight spot before heading to the Japan Alps or Utsukushigahara Heights. If not for my wife having a good friend who is a resident,..

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Kamikochi is a popular resort and often associated with some of the best natural beauty that the central Japanese Alps—and indeed Japan—have to offer. Go for a hike on one of the many trails..

About Nagano

The mountainous prefecture of Nagano Prefecture (長野県, Nagano - ken ) is the perfect summer resort to avoid the heat, with the town of Karuizawa being one of the most popular summer getaway spots in Japan.

Take advantage of the relatively cool weather to explore the famous Matsumoto Castle , one of Japan’s oldest shrines in Suwa Taisha, and Zenko-ji , a major pilgrimage site. Nagano’s many tall mountains serve as challenging but beautiful hiking trails, especially those of Kamikochi .

That being said, Nagano is also a great destination in the winter, and it was the host of the 1998 Winter Olympics. The prefecture’s mountains are some of the largest ski resorts in Japan, most notably Shika Kogen and Mount Hakuba . After being out in the cold, seek warmth in one of Nagano’s many famous hot springs. 

• Things to Do in Nagano

Nagano Top 10

• Recommended

Glamping Workations at Hakuba's Mominoki Hotel

ROKA Luxury Apartments

The Bathhouses of Shibu Onsen

Straddling the Skyline in Shibu Toge Pass

Blades of Shinanomachi

Hotel Housei in Yudanaka

Komagane's Cedar Shrines

Takato Castle Park Sakura Festival

The Top Four Snowy Slopes of Nagano, Niigata

Wellness Travel in Japan’s Northern Alps

Matsumoto Grand Taiko Festival

Snow Machine Hakuba

Nagaoka Festival

Achi Village Peach Blossom Festival

Takamori Kannon-do Sakura Festival

Spring Festa at Alps Azumino National Park

Frog Street in Matsumoto

Matsumoto Frog Festival

Nagano Ebisukō Fireworks Festival

Upcoming nagano events.

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Where to eat in Nagano

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Singing Norwegian Wood at "Rizanbo"

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Latest Nagano Reports

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• An Insiders Guide To The...

Skiing, Shrines and Snow Monkeys: The Best Things To Do in Nagano in Winter

When the weather turns cold, the powder-covered mountains around Nagano make it a top location for snow sports in Japan. But that isn’t the only reason to visit Nagano in winter – there are also delicious mountain cuisine, seasonal festivals and the ultimate in après-ski relaxation: onsen. Culture Trip spoke to regional expert Phil Yarbrough for his take on the best things to do in Nagano in the winter.

“Nagano is home to the northern Japanese Alps, many of which stand taller than 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) in elevation,” says Phil, an employee of Northstar Lodge , one of Nagano’s winter lodging locations. “The mountainsides are dotted with snow resorts aplenty and enough backcountry snowshoeing and skiing opportunities to keep you busy all winter.”

In the spring and summer months, Nagano’s natural surroundings are characterised by wildflower meadows and clear alpine lakes. Phil explains, in winter, the landscape completely changes. “When winter hits, the mountains transform dramatically from fiery autumn foliage to mountains blanketed in snow.” At this time of year, Nagano prefecture’s large ski resort areas, such as Hakuba and Nozawa, are particularly popular. “Nagano’s focus is on winter tourism and sport so wherever you decide to stay you won’t be far from access to the slopes, good soba and steamy onsen,” he says.

Go snowshoeing in the Japanese Alps

Phil suggests that travellers looking for an off-the-beaten-track winter experience should take a Little Peaks snowshoeing tour around Kamikochi. On these walks, you’ll wear snow shoes, which allow access to areas of Kamikochi’s dusted slopes that you might otherwise miss. The tours are led by an informative guide, with the opportunity to see winter wildlife unique to Nagano’s Alps along the way.

Take in the beautiful alpine scenery as you wander the slopes, including mountainside ranch trails, frozen ponds and icefalls – it’s a great way to spend a winter afternoon in Nagano.

Watch expert climbers scale a frozen waterfall

Norikura Kogen is a nature preserve in Matsumoto, Nagano, that is famous for its gorgeous waterfalls. Two must-visit falls are Zengorou and Sanbon – both of which freeze during the winter months. Make a trip out to the falls to take in the magical view – and perhaps admire some icy entertainment. The falls alone are a picturesque sight, with the icy surroundings creating a mystical atmosphere. But while only professional climbers are permitted to scale the falls, if you’re lucky, you might see a pro climber scrambling up the frozen cascade.

See the snow monkeys bathe at Jigokudani

Onsen bathing is a centuries-old tradition in Japanese culture, with the earliest written records of it dating back to AD 600. In Nagano, it’s not only the people who bathe in the area’s hot springs, but also the wildlife.

Phil recommends a visit to Jigokudani during your visit to Nagano, home to the most hygienic and health-conscious monkeys in the world. Here, peaceful, snow-dusted landscapes provide a spectacular backdrop to watch the humorous monkeys freely taking part in communal hot-spring bathing. The reserve also offers good walking or hiking, but make sure that you wear waterproof boots as the trails can get really muddy.

Attend an ice sculpture festival

Set against the majestic sight of Matsumoto Castle, Matsumoto Ice Sculpture Festival is an annual event that usually occurs in January. The festival lasts Friday through Sunday, during which time you can watch sculptors create pristine ice creations, eat regional snacks, drink local Japanese sake and take part in family-friendly activities. Look out for creative sculptures of dragons, mermaids and horsemen.

Pro tip: Time your visit as the sun is setting to watch the sculptures light up with colourful illuminations.

Visit Togakushi Shrine in the snow

A Shinto site that consists of five shrines (all of which may be reached by a path lined with Japanese cedar trees), Togakushi offers a serene escape for nature lovers. “Visiting Togakushi Shrine is especially beautiful in the snow – though you may need snowshoes for the trek,” says Phil. Enjoy the reverent ambience of the sacred Shinto site and bask in the elven-like forest that surrounds it, among cedar trees that are more than 500 years old. From here, walk along a cedar-lined trail to see if you can spot the frozen waterfall nearby.

Go skiing at Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort

One of the most popular sports to try in Nagano during the winter is skiing – and what place better to do this than at arguably the best ski area in Nagano? Equipped with every convenience for families and serious skiers alike, Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort offers both beginner and advanced slopes, rental gear, an adjacent Escal Plaza filled with food and drink options and well-groomed slopes and lifts that make access around the resort a breeze. For families who are visiting the resort with children, Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort has both indoor and outdoor areas for kids to enjoy, and there’s also the opportunity to sled down the small slopes or play indoors in a woodland-inspired play area.

Visit Nozawa Onsen Village

After a long day of skiing on Nagano’s excellent powder, making your joints stiff from both the exercise and the cold, a bubbly-hot dip in a natural spring is in order. For a hot bath in Nagano, Phil suggests a trip to Nozawa – a traditional Japanese onsen village. With over 30 onsen to choose from, life in this village revolves around bathing culture. There are even a variety of free onsen to choose from, including Ōyu Hot Spring, which is located in central Nozawa, and is famous for being housed in a wooden, Edo-style bath house. On the way there, stop by one of the village’s many street vendors selling fresh oyaki (steamed buns filled with veggies and cooked with onsen water). A word of warning from Phil, “be careful with the onsen in Nozawa as many of them have very hot water!”

Visit a snow-covered Matsumoto Castle

“If you can catch Matsumoto Castle with snow on it, it’s amazingly beautiful,” Phil says. Matsumoto Castle has been well preserved, with much of its keep being in its original, 16th-century form. The castle grounds are free to wander year-round, but they make a particularly picture-perfect location to explore in the snow. If you visit Matsumoto Castle during a popular time, you might be lucky enough to jump on a free guided tour – which local experts offer in different languages. The castle’s surrounding area is worth exploring too, as Phil adds, “on top of that, Matsumoto has its own brewery and a bar in the downtown area – meaning that after a day of sightseeing and admiring the castle, you can take to the brewery and socialise with other travellers.”

Cosy up at Enza Cafe

If you’ve visited Shigakigen to see the onsen bathing snow monkeys, Phil suggests that travellers stop at Enza Café for a bite to eat surrounded by gorgeous views of the surrounding snow-covered forest. Sit on the terrace or by a window to soak up the natural scene while enjoying a hot drink or meal. A mix between a cosy café and an intimate restaurant , Enza Café is the perfect place to warm yourself up from the winter cold with a bowl of chicken ramen, a salmon avocado sushi roll or a miso broth – or perhaps splurge on a piece of the café’s popular apple pie.

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Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, 5-days nagano itinerary: what to do in nagano prefecture in japan.

This past October, I went on my twice-yearly pilgrimage to Tokyo . I was determined to see something new this time. My husband suggested to do a road trip out Nagano, so I did a quick research and realized it’s the perfect choice for my criteria! I wanted to visit a place outside Tokyo and I also wanted to be in nature, which I can’t really find back home in Singapore. Nagano ticks both of those boxes perfectly.

How to get around Nagano prefecture

Self Driving – Nagano prefecture is a large area to explore. If you have an international driver’s license and are comfortable with driving in a foreign country, this is the most convenient and flexible option since you won’t have to be dependent on public transport. You can book a car rental from Tokyo here, which you can pick up from the airport or the city:

• Car Rental Pick up from Narita Airport
• Car Rental Pick up from Haneda Airport
• Car Rental Pick up in Tokyo

By Train – If you can’t / don’t want to drive, then getting a JR Pass is still a great option. You can use the unlimited JR Pass , or if you’re only planning to visit Nagano then you can opt for the cheaper 5-day JR East Nagano pass , which will cover most of the itineraries below. Keep in mind JR Pass MUST be bought from outside of Japan, so get this before your trip!

The price of Unlimited JR Pass has increased by 70% since 1 Oct 2023 . Even though you’ll see many recommendations for buying a JR Pass to save some costs, it could be outdated. Since the price hike, it has become harder to justify the cost of the JR Pass, however regional passes like the JR West Kansai Pass might still be worth it. I am working on updating my blog post to reflect this change.

Tips for Roadtripping in Nagano Prefecture

Nagano prefecture is a mountainous area . If you are self-driving, make sure you know how to drive in the mountains. And, if you’re visiting in the winter, please be prepared to drive in icy conditions.

It’s worth noting most restaurants seem to close rather early here (8-8:30 pm) so make sure you’re well-fed by then unless you don’t mind eating at an Izakaya or meals from the Konbini (convenience store), which is really not that bad.

What to eat in Nagano Prefecture

1. soba noodles.

Due to the mountainous terrain of Nagano prefecture, it is difficult to successfully grow rice. Instead, soba (buckwheat) became the main produce of Nagano.

The most popular form of buckwheat is, of course, Soba noodles! I’m sure most of us are already familiar with this noodle – but in Nagano, you definitely can’t miss it. It’s served in almost every traditional restaurant. You can have Soba noodles in a hot soup or served cold with a broth on the side, and with various toppings.

2. Oyaki (Savory or Sweet Dumpling)

Oyaki is a Japanese savory dumpling, traditionally stuffed with roasted local vegetables. Oyaki is super popular and widely available in Nagano. Like Soba noodles, It’s a great representation of the prefecture – Oyaki skin is made from buckwheat flour. I tried one near Matsumoto Castle which had leek, mushrooms, and potatoes. Apples and other fruits are also commonly used to make the sweet version!

My 5-day Nagano Prefecture Itinerary

Here is my five-day itinerary when I went to Nagano. I think it’s a great itinerary as it combines both city exploration and nature! You can easily stretch this to more days too if you have more time than I did. I’ll include other places worthy of visiting that I didn’t get to go to.

Day 1: Karuizawa

Day 2: matsumoto.

• Day 3: Kamikochi (Japanese Alps)
• Day 4: Omachi – Lake Kisaki and Kurobe Dam
• Day 5: Kusatsu Onsen town
• What else can you see in Nagano?

And now without further ado, here’s what you can expect from each stop in my Nagano Itinerary:

Our first stop is a small town called Karuizawa. Although small, Karuizawa is hardly unknown to Japanese people. And especially to people from Tokyo, Karuizawa is known as an idyllic mountain town and an escape from the summer heat.

So what makes Karuizawa a worthy stop? Well, Karuizawa is the perfect mountain town that has everything: nature, hiking, good food, and shopping. I’ve written a separate blog post on Karuizawa which will tell you all about this town.

Tip! Find out more about what to do, where to stay, and what to eat in Karuizawa: Read my blog post on Karuizawa here

Where to eat in Karuizawa

• Cheesecake from Izumiya Saku at Harunire Terrace
• Sonmin-Shokudo at Hoshino Onsen
• Kumobatei next to Kumoba Pond
• SASA Japanese Cuisine – famous as the curry shop of one of the Terrace House participant
• Hamy’s

Where to stay in Karuizawa

• Karuizawa Pension Sato is where we stayed in Karuizawa. It’s a super cute 2-story house, located deep inside the foresty streets of Karuizawa, where you can pick rooms with either shared bathroom or private bathroom ensuite. Their price is the most affordable I could find in Karuizawa.
• Hotel Wellies – a cute british style cabin hotel located in the resort area of Karuizawa
• APA Hotel Karuizawa Ekimae – If convenience is what you’re after, this hotel is only 2 mins walk from the station with easy access to Karuizawa tourist spots.

From Karuizawa, we drove approximately 2 hours to Matsumoto. Honestly, the only reason why we made a stop here is because it is the closest point to Kamikochi, which is next on our itinerary.

1. Matsumoto Castle & Matsumoto City Museum

Matsumoto Castle is difficult to avoid when you are in Matsumoto. It’s definitely a must-do. Unlike the rest of the castles in Japan, Matsumoto Castle is unique due to its black exterior, which has earned its nickname “Crow Castle”. It is said the cost of the maintenance for this castle is high due to the material and man hours needed to keep up the black paint exterior.

At the castle, you can opt to go inside and explore all 5 floors which I totally recommend. The castle gets more and more narrow as you reach the top and the stairs get steeper, but you get a nice view at the top where you can really see how this area is surrounded by mountains.

Next to the entrance to the castle is the city museum, which you can explore after the castle.

2. Matsumoto City Museum of Art

Matsumoto City Museum of Art is a must-stop if you’re a fan of the works of Yayoi Kusama, arguably one of Japan’s most famous contemporary artists who was born and raised in Matsumoto. Heck, even if you have no idea who Yayoi Kusama is, I still think the permanent exhibition is worth a visit! It only costs 400 yen to enter and you can go through it in less than an hour. Keep in mind the museum is closed on Mondays.

In this museum, you can see permanent collection of her works. While you won’t see the famous “Infinity Mirrored Rooms” (which has gone viral thanks to Instagram and commanded hours of queue at The Broad in Los Angeles ) you’ll get to see many of her early works and an insight into her quirky mind.

3. Former Kaichi School

Kaichi School was one of the first schools in Japan. If you are interested in seeing how schooling was done, I suggest visiting this place. However, if you are out of time you can give it a miss.

4. Nawate Dori

Nawate Dori is a shopping strip where the style of the shops is preserved to look like how it would back when Matsumoto was a castle town. You can find souvenir shops, vintage goods shops, and most importantly, please stop by Furusato for a delicious treat of Taiyaki!

5. Asama Onsen

What is Nagano without a daily visit to the onsen? Okay, fine, maybe it’s not normal to go to Onsen every day, but we made a point to try an Onsen in each of the places we stopped by. Asama Onsen is out of the way from the city, so you don’t have to stop by here if you’ve done / planning to do onsen elsewhere (Kusatsu might have been the better choice).

Anyway, compared to Hoshino Onsen from Karuizawa, Asama Onsen is much more simple. Their price is very simple too – more than half of Hoshino at 600 yen per adult. Inside, you can find one cold pool, one hot pool, and one outdoor pool. I suggest trying the hot/cold bathing method – first, take a shower and then dip yourself into the hot pool. Once you feel that your body temperature is high enough, go to the cold pool and dip yourself. Then go back to the hot pool. It sounds crazy, but I’ve been told this builds immunity!

Where and where to eat in Matsumoto

• Miyota Soba
• Matsumoto Fried Chicken at Matsumoto Karaage Center
• Furusato Taiyaki at Nawate-dori

Where to stay in Matsumoto

• We stayed at L-BASE Fuchian Mura , and got one of their mountain lodge/holiday home. It’s a super small yet cozy wooden lodge with a bed located on the second floor. I posted this on Instagram and got so many requests to reveal the location, so here you go! L-BASE isn’t located in the city itself though, so it might be a bit inconvenient if you aren’t driving – but it’s still within walking distance to one of the train stations.
• Premier Hotel Cabin Matsumoto – If you need to stay close to the train station, this hotel is a great choice. It’s close to the Matsumoto castle and city center.
• Dormy Inn Matsumoto – Also a great option for staying near the city center.

Day 3: Kamikochi

Kamikochi is part of the Chubu Sangaku National Park, also known as the Northern Japanese Alps . It has also been referred to as the “Japanese Yosemite Valley”, due to the similarity of the terrains found in Kamikochi.

I gotta admit – this entire itinerary was built around our plan to hike in Kamikochi! I saw one photo of Kappabashi (below) and I was sold.

As there is a lot to say about this place, I’ve written a separate guide on hiking in Kamikochi . This includes what to expect and places to stay, as well as day trip options if you’re not in the mood to hike.

Keep in mind though, Kamikochi is only open from  April 15 – November 15 . You need to check their official website at  kamikochi.org  for exact dates, as it may change on a yearly basis. The park closes down for winter and you cannot visit, so it’s best to skip if you’re here during the winter months.

Day 4: Omachi – Lake Kisaki & Kurobe Dam

I designated this day as our rest day after the insane 10 hours hike / walk we did in Kamikochi , but we still ended up walking around plenty!

1. Lake Kisaki & Kizakiko Camping Ground

If you did the same hike as we did and stayed in Kamikochi, then you have the option to go straight to Lake Kisaki once you’ve left Kamikochi. It’s about 2 hours drive from Kamikochi.

Lake Kisaki is a fairly small lake – walking the perimeter of this lake takes about an hour, and it’s mostly lined by holiday houses and farms. There isn’t much to do here, but relax. That’s the main reason why we came here! To stay at one of the lake side lodge and rest after our Kamikochi trek.

If you feel like going to an onsen, there’s (of course) one nearby the camping ground called Yupuru. This one is the most basic out of all the onsen I’ve visited so far, with only one indoor pool and a washing area. It costs 700 yen per adult to enter.

2. Kurobe Dam

Kurobe Dam is one of the marvel of Japanese engineering, built in the post-WWII era to resolve drought and power shortage in the area. It is the tallest dam in Japan at 186m high, completed in 1963 after an arduous 7 years of construction which claimed the lives of 171 workers.

Kurobe Dam station is only about 30 minutes drive from Lake Kisaki. From the station, you need to take one of their electric buses through Kanden Tunnel to continue your way up to the dam itself. You get to pass through the famed “fracture zone” which made the construction of this dam so difficult. The temperature in this tunnel is very cold regarding the outside temperature – it always remains around 10C.

If you happen to be here on a beautiful day, a visit to the dam is totally worth it. It’s also part of the Japanese Alpine hiking route (the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route to be exact), so you might see hikers in their gear and bear bells walking across the dam!

What and where to eat

• Kurobe Dam Curry – This dish is technically just a Japanese curry dish, which is already delicious on its own, what makes the dish an Omachi specialty is the way it’s served. The Japanese white rice is moulded to the shape of Kurobe Dam, and the sauce is green (from Spinach) to represent the color of the water in Kurobe dam. Two pieces of nuggets are also served to represent the boats that you can take during certain months in Kurobe Dam. You can have this dish at the Kurobe Dam restaurant or at Yupuru onsen restaurant near Lake Kisaki.

Where to stay

• Kizakiko Camping Ground – We booked a lake-side bungalow at this camping ground. It was not cheap by any means (8000 yen a night!), especially for how simple the bungalow is, but the location couldn’t be better. It’s literally by the lakeside! The only issue is that booking needs to be done in Japanese.
• Hotel Yume-no-yu – A ryokan with a private bathroom and its own onsen in the vicinity.
• Nanakuraso – This ryokan is located conveniently in Omachi town.

Day 5: Kusatsu

Kusatsu is such a charming little town. The entire vibe of the city reminds me of Spirited Away, and it’s made extra whimsical on cold nights since the natural hot spring would occasionally stir up steam into the air. Many visitors would dress up in a Yukata (Japanese summer wear) and Geta (wooden slipper) while going to an onsen.

Read more: If you’re visiting Kusatsu, take the time to read my Kusatsu travel guide

Where to stay in Kusatsu

• Ryokan Tamura – If staying near the town center is your priority, then this Ryokan fits the bill. It’s a cute Japanese-style inn located minutes from the town center.
• Hananigen – Similar to Tamura, Hananigen is also a ryokan located within minutes of Kusatsu town center.
• Kusatsu Onsen Eidaya – Slightly cheaper ryokan as the location is a bit further away from the town center, but still within walking distance!

What else you can see in Nagano Prefecture

If you have more time in Nagano and wondering what else to do, here are some recommendations you can check out.

• Jigokudani Monkey Park – You’ve probably seen photos of Japanese Macaque (monkeys) taking a bath in an onsen.
• Mount Kusatsu-Shirane – I really wanted to check out this mountain, but unfortunately, it was closed during the time I visited as it is an active volcano and there were a lot of activities observed around the mountain.
• Nagano City – Nagano City is the capital of Nagano prefecture. Most famous for hosting the 1998 Winter Olympics, you can still see the remnants of Olympics architecture around town.
• Hakuba – Most famous as a ski resort, Hakuba is best visited during winter.

So that’s all my itinerary for Nagano prefecture! After leaving Kusatsu, we drove straight back to Tokyo.

A little trivia: I was actually there right on the day before Typhoon Hagibis was set to hit the center of Tokyo. It was rated as the biggest Typhoon of the year, and we could already see the weather being affected by the incoming typhoon – it started to rain, whereas the previous days were clear sunny days. It was also my first time hunkering down for a typhoon. Thankfully for us, the typhoon did not cause too much damage in Tokyo itself. However, we heard Nagano prefecture was flooded and we were lucky to have gotten out just in time.

As usual, feel free to leave comments if you have any questions! I will always reply 🙂

• November 1, 2023

Great info and beautiful photos. Details will come in handy. Planning a trip with family next fall. Thanks a lot!

• May 30, 2023

Wonderful tips! I used a lot of them on my one week Nagano trip. Thank you for posting and your incredible work.

• November 13, 2022

Hi … is parking easy on your trip ? Are the charges expensive ? Does the lodging provide free parking ?

• November 15, 2022

Hey Alvin, parking was pretty easy when we went. Some lodging provides parking, it depends where you book. Usually if its city center they probably don’t have parking. Parking cost was ok, less expensive than Tokyo.

• May 7, 2022

Nagano is one of my favourite areas for travel in Japan. I recently explored Kumamoto as well. Maybe you already know it? anyway, thanks for reading my comment.

• January 6, 2020

Its seems like perfect place where we can enjoy and see natural beauty of nature. I love Japanese Food and I will try to visit their with my best ones.

• December 11, 2019

Love following your blog. It is most informative with useful and relevant detail. Also sharing a common interest of travel, food ,culture and dive experiences. Have you looked into Shikoku island, Japan or had been there already! Thank you for sharing your experiences.

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Adventure in the Japanese Alps

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

Kamikochi: The Crown Jewel of the Japanese Alps

Matsumoto Castle

Walking the Nakasendo

The Jigokudani Wild Monkey Park

The Hakuba Valley

Beyond the Nakasendo

Looking Forward to Spring

Nagano’s Top Cherry Blossom Spots

Cherry Blossoms and the Japanese Alps

Where to See Flowering Fields in Nagano

A Beautiful Spring Day in Ueda

Snowy Spring in the Ina Valley

Nagano by Category

The Many Sides of Nagano

Nature and Outdoors

History and Culture

Food and Drink

Hot Springs and Relaxation

Accommodations

Warm Up with Hot Springs

The Highest Hot Springs in Japan

Nozawa Onsen: Nagano's Not-So-Secret Hot Spring Village

Enjoying Onsen Hot Springs in Nagano

An Ode to Nagano’s Grandest Ryokans (Traditional Japanese Inns)

Five Unique and Memorable Hot Springs

Hot Springs and Waterfalls in Matsukawa Gorge

15 of the Best Places to Visit in Nagano

The Best of Nagano in Three Days

9 of Nagano's Best Local Foods

Explore Nagano Model Courses

Explore Nagano’s Castle Towns and Ninja Hideout

A Three-Day Trip along the Nakasendo

Experience Winter Wonders in Snowy Nagano

A Foodie's Three Day Trip through Nagano

Take a Trip Along the Nakasendo

Walk the Nakasendo to Narai of a Thousand Houses

Walking the Nakasendo: Through Usui Pass to Karuizawa

Exploring the Longest Stretch of the Nakasendo

Nagano's Ski Resorts

Shiga Kogen Ski Resort

8 Peaks Ski Resort: Fair Weather Skiing – With Fresh Snow Guaranteed

Nagano’s Hidden Ski Resorts

News Letter

Nagano City (����) is the capital of Nagano Prefecture . It evolved as a temple town around Zenkoji , one of Japan's most popular temples . In 1998, the city hosted the Winter Olympic Games , and some former olympic facilities can still be viewed around town.

In the forested mountains northwest of the city center lies the Togakushi area which attracts tourists with its popular shrines and as the legendary home of the Togakure Ninja School. The Togakushi Ninpo Museum and the Kids Ninja Village provide good entertainment and a glimpse of the area's ninja past.

Top attractions in Nagano

Togakushi Shrine •

Zenkoji Temple •

Ninpo Museum •

Nagano Art Museum

Kids Ninja Village

Olympic Facilities

Yamanouchi ••

Matsumoto •

Nozawa Onsen

Bessho Onsen

Getting there and around.

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Nagano city, hotels around nagano.

Experiences around Nagano

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Illuminations

• Shiraito Midwinter Light Up

Kitasaku-gun, Nagano-ken

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A harmony of snow, water and light at Shiraito Falls

Shiraito Falls is located just north of the town of Karuizawa, a popular destination for its greenery and cooler summer temperatures. A visit in winter offers a completely different atmosphere, as the lush greenery is hidden under pillows of white snow.

Shiraito Falls is just three meters tall, but its 70-meter width is impressive. The white water continues to flow even in below-freezing temperatures as the falls are fed by the underwater flow of nearby volcanic Mt. Asama.

The Shiraito Midwinter Light Up event is held from late December to early March. This winter display highlights the illuminated falls' contrast with the starry night sky on crisp winter evenings.

How to get there

Karuizawa Station is a stop on the Hokuriku Shinkansen and is the closest major station to Shiraito Falls. From there, take a Karuizawa-Kusatsu Line bus for 20 minutes to the Shiraito Falls stop.

Held between late December to early March. For more information, visit: https://visitkaruizawa.com/en/  

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