Nagano
Chubu
Hosts the Snow Monkey hot springs, Matsumoto Castle, and ski resort of Hakuba.
Capital
Nagano
Best Time to Visit
Winter (December–March) for skiing and Snow Monkey visits; spring for Matsumoto Castle cherry blossoms; autumn for Jigokudani foliage.
Getting There
Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano (1h 30min via Hokuriku Shinkansen, ~¥9,000). Buses and local trains connect to ski resorts and rural areas.
Top Highlights
Jigokudani Snow Monkeys
Wild Japanese macaques bathing in natural hot spring pools surrounded by snow and steam — one of Japan's most beloved wildlife experiences.
Matsumoto Castle
Japan's finest original castle, nicknamed the "Crow Castle" for its dramatic black exterior, reflected in a surrounding moat.
Zenko-ji Temple
Important Buddhist pilgrimage temple in Nagano city founded in the 7th century, housing Japan's oldest Buddha image.
Hakuba & Shiga Kogen
Hakuba hosted 1998 Winter Olympics alpine events; Shiga Kogen is one of Japan's largest ski areas with 22 resorts.
Local Cuisine
Soba
Nagano is Japan's top soba producing prefecture. Local "togakushi" soba uses 100% buckwheat (juwari soba) with a pronounced nutty flavor.
Oyaki
Traditional Nagano wheat dumplings stuffed with seasonal fillings — pickled nozawana greens, red bean paste, or mushrooms.
Nozawana Pickles
Peppery leaves of Nozawa turnip pickled in salt and brine — a Nagano winter staple with a distinctive sharp flavor.
Stay Connected in Nagano
Yesim eSIMs activate on arrival — no SIM swap needed. Japan data plans from $5.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a car for Snow Monkey Park?+
No. Take the Shinkansen to Nagano, then a bus to Yudanaka, and walk 30 minutes through the forest to Jigokudani. The entire trip without a car is straightforward.
Things to Do in Nagano
12 sustainable experiences
Karuizawa Private Vehicle Service with Restaurant Reservation
Discover Karuizawa (located in Nagano Prefecture) in comfort and style with a private chartered vehicle tour designed just for you. Whether you’re interested in exploring cultural landmarks, browsing vibrant local markets, or venturing off the beaten path, you can create a fully customized itinerary
From US$206.11
Karuizawa Private Vehicle Service with Restaurant Reservation
Discover Karuizawa (located in Nagano Prefecture) in comfort and style with a private chartered vehicle tour designed just for you. Whether you’re interested in exploring cultural landmarks, browsing vibrant local markets, or venturing off the beaten path, you can create a fully customized itinerary
From US$204.75
Trekking on the Mt. Asama with a great view
It is a trekking tour with an exclusive guide to the summit of the small Asama mountain of the Asama mountain foot. Koasayama is a parasitic volcano on the eastern foot of Mt. Asama at an altitude of 1,655 m. A guide will guide you through the formation and vegetation of Mt. Asama and aim at the sum
From US$54.92
Old Nakasendo trekking from Karuizawa-Beyond Sugahi Pass to Sakamoto Hotel-
Walk past Karuizawa inn from the former Nakayama Road to the Sakamoto inn. Sui Hui is a place that was once said to be the most difficult place in Zhongshan Road. At the top of the Usui Pass, you can see the view point of the Kanto plains panoramic view and the Kumano Imperial Shrine, which is famou
From US$82.83
Karuizawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Karuizawa! Karuizawa is a quaint mountain resort that’s rich in nature and a prime leisure destination. From stunning natural landscapes to fun filled man made attra
From US$106.64
Karuizawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Karuizawa! Karuizawa is a quaint mountain resort that’s rich in nature and a prime leisure destination. From stunning natural landscapes to fun filled man made attra
From US$106.61
Karuizawa Private Customizable Full Day Tour
This private and customizable tour for Karuizawa city (in Nagano Prefecture) is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace. Discover 4-5 attractions in Karuizawa City at yo
From US$288.16
Experience Local Soba Making in Karuizawa
Lesson will be given by a professional Soba chef with an English translator. Young and old can enjoy it at ease.
From US$49.7
Visit the amazing views and power spots of ...
Tour highlights: A long time ago, it was said that it was the most difficult place on Nakasendo. In this tour, we will aim for a scenic spot from the former Karuizawa Ginza through the boardwalk of the Suigaki Pass. The trail through the wooded villa has a promenade, and it takes about 1 hour to ar
From US$16.57
Private Photoshoot Experience in Karuizawa
We’re a husband-and-wife team based in Nagano prefecture, offering relaxed, natural photo sessions for international travelers. With two cameras and one shared passion, we capture your journey with warmth and authenticity—real smiles, candid moments, and the beauty of Japan. Let’s make your trip u
From US$387.66
Karuizawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Karuizawa! Karuizawa is a quaint mountain resort that’s rich in nature and a prime leisure destination. From stunning natural landscapes to fun filled man made attra
From US$142.14
Tour with a dedicated car! Visiting the basic tourist spots in Karuizawa (half day course / Japanese guide)
We recommend visiting Karuizawa sightseeing spots for those who want to go around sightseeing spots in Karuizawa efficiently in a short time, or for the first time in Karuizawa. A local taxi driver guides you through the sights. Karuizawa is a course where you can experience the history, culture, an
From US$87.22