What is Nagano Prefecture?
The vast wilderness of Nagano presents new attractive features in each of the four seasons.
A place where you can play in the natural world and come in contact with the history.
It serves as a summer retreat where you seek coolness as well as a go-to place to bask in the fall foliage and enjoy winter activities, such as skiing and snowboarding.
“Feel” the spectacular scenery of the Japan Alps, and it will make you forget about your daily life for a moment. What’s more,
when you take a stroll around the castle town and post station where historical streetscape remains, you will feel as if you have traveled back in time. You can enjoy a trip to engross in the history of the Shinshu region.
Splendid nature, a rich history, and Shinshu’s specialty dishes crafted with local ingredients await you. Discover new, captivating features of Nagano through a journey packed with everything travelers look for in a trip!
Access from Osaka to NaganoApprox. 1 hour by plane Approx. 3 hours 30 minutes by train
Approx. 6 hours by car
Access from Osaka to NaganoApprox. 1 hour by plane Approx. 3 hours 30 minutes by train
Approx. 6 hours by car
A 3-Day Trip With Walks To
What Used to Be a Post Station in the Middle Ages, Magnificent Japan Alps,
And Spectacular Tenryukyo Gorge
Here is a way to experience nostalgic landscapes reminiscent of old Japan through a journey in Nagano. Take a stroll around Tsumago-juku where the atmosphere of the Edo Period (1603-1868) still lingers, and savor delicious local dishes.
Burn the majestic, beautiful scenery in your memory and have a trip to remember while immersing yourself in its history and nature.
A 4-Day Trip to
Admire Diverse Forms of Art, From the Artwork
Loved by the Feudal Warlords To Contemporary
Art
In fact, Nagano Prefecture is a treasure trove of works of art, dotted with art and history museums. Enjoy a drive with stunning views through the magnificent nature of Nagano while appreciating artworks by world-famous local artists and contemporary sculptures! Here is a way to travel around must-see spots for art lovers.
See model course
A 5-Day Trip to Enjoy
Winter Activities at Some of the Highest Mountains in Japan,
Including Hakuba and Okushiga Kogen
When you’re in Nagano in winter, you’ve got to try winter activities! Try skiing, snowboarding, or making snow domes, and enjoy quality snow to your heart’s content. Unwind and relax in the hot spring after playing in the vast field of snow. A perfect trip to truly enjoy winter.
See model courseRecommended sightseeing spots in Nagano Prefecture
- Sightseeing
- Dining
- Activities
- Stay
- Shopping
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Tsumago-juku
A post town where the medieval streetscape has been beautifully preserved. In 1976, it was designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. Even today, it retains the lively atmosphere of a historic post town.
Kiso -
Nagiso Town Museum
It consists of three facilities: Tsumago-juku Honjin, Wakihonjin Okuya (a nationally designated Important Cultural Property), and the Historical Museum. These sites are highly recommended for gaining a deeper understanding of Tsumago-juku, often referred to as a "living museum."
Kiso -
Shimosagaya, Kamisagaya
This is an inn located in the middle of Tsumago-juku and is the oldest house in the post town. Originally part of a row house, one unit was dismantled and restored in 1968. It is a Tangible Cultural Property of the town, preserving the architectural style of its time.
Kiso -
Tenryu Gorge
You can enjoy a landscape that looks like a traditional ink painting.
Southern Shinshu -
Sky Walk Tenryukyo
You can take a stroll along the promenade beneath the roadway of the Tenryukyo Bridge. It offers a panoramic view of the Tenryu River, the railway, and the surrounding scenery.
Southern Shinshu -
Senjojiki curl
The majestic and beautiful cirques make for stunning photo spots, perfect for capturing breathtaking shots.
Kamiina -
Matsumoto Castle
Stroll through Matsumoto Castle and the castle town that stretches north and south, filled with fascinating sights.
Matsumoto -
Matsumoto City Museum of Art
The museum primarily houses and exhibits works by Yayoi Kusama, a world-renowned artist from Matsumoto.
Matsumoto -
Venus Line
Embark on a scenic drive through breathtaking flower-filled landscapes. Enjoy a leisurely drive through the highlands.
Suwa -
Utsukushigahara Art Museum
A vast open-air sculpture museum spanning 40,000 tsubo (132,331 sqm), offering large-scale outdoor exhibitions.
Ueda -
Kirigamine
Explore Yashima Wetlands, Kurumayama Highlands, and Shirakaba Lake with a leisurely stroll.
Suwa -
Megami-no-Sora Terrace 1830
Enjoy the breathtaking views from Mount Tateshina. From the terrace, you can overlook Megami Lake below and a panoramic stretch of mountain ranges in the distance.
Saku -
Nunobikikannon
A cliffside Kannon Hall, the legendary site of "Pilgrimage to Zenkoji chasing after an ox." The temple hall is designated as an Important Cultural Property.
Saku -
Karuizawa New Art Museum
A chapel designed by Kengo Kuma, uniquely installed within a museum, alongside avant-garde art exhibitions.
Saku -
Sezon Museum of Modern Art
Experience a strolling-style exhibition set within the forest, offering an immersive art garden experience.
Saku -
Karuizawa Museum of Contemporary Art
Discover a collection of works by Japanese artists who have gained international acclaim.
Saku -
HAKUBA MOUNTAIN HARBOR
A scenic terrace offering a panoramic view of the Northern Alps. Enjoy a tea break with exclusive menu items from the on-site bakery.
Northern Alps -
Hakuba Ski Jumping Stadium (Hakuba Olympic Memorial Hall)
Visit the memorial museum dedicated to the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics and Paralympics, held in Hakuba.
Northern Alps -
Jigokudani Wild Monkey Park
The only place in the world where you can observe Japanese macaques soaking in a hot spring up close.
Hokushin -
Zenkoji / Monzencho
Zenkoji Temple, a spiritual sanctuary visited by over 7 million people annually, remains a cherished place of worship for the masses.
Nagano
-
Otokichi Tsumagojuku Yamaga Cuisine
Enjoy dishes crafted with carefully selected local ingredients from Tsumago, such as traditional regional cuisine, wild-caught sweetfish, and natural yam, served in a charming hinoki-wood interior. Savor the seasonal flavors and experience the gentle, heartwarming taste.
Kiso -
Hoshizora Shokudo
Travelers gather at Hoshizora Shokudo to relax, share their adventures, and reflect on their journey under the starlit sky.
Southern Shinshu -
Touemon, teahouse with footbath
Indulge in a local specialty set featuring sauce katsu-don and Shinshu soba, capturing the best of the region in one meal.
Kamiina -
2612 Cafe
From original house-blend coffee and sauce katsu-don to hot dogs, enjoy a variety of comforting menu options.
Kamiina -
Hikariya Higashi
Experience the finest farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on healthy Shinshu ingredients, emphasizing a commitment to local production and onsumption.
Matsumoto -
Restaurant Seppo
A chef personally connects with farmers and producers in Hakuba and the surrounding areas, showcasing fresh ingredients and the charm of the region.
Northern Alps -
Hakuba Deli
Savor Shinshu-grown vegetables in a DELI-style dining experience at a scenic mountain resort.
Northern Alps -
Yokoteyama Rest House Akari, a restaurant in the ski area
A convenient base lodge for skiing at Yokote Mountain and Shibutoge Ski Resort.
Hokushin -
Yokote Summit Hutte, a restaurant high in the ski area
Warm up with a comforting bowl of soup after a chilly day outdoors.
Hokushin -
Monzen Saryo Yayoiza
Enjoy creative regional cuisine that blends the essence of regional cuisine, traditional Zenkoji temple cuisine and home-cooked flavors.
Nagano -
Keyakiya Bikura
Delight in seasonal seafood while taking in a breathtaking panoramic night view.
Nagano
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Hirugami Onsen
A hot spring area in Achi Village, Nagano Prefecture. Known for its highly alkaline waters, earning the reputation as one of Japan's top "Bijin no Yu" (Beauty Hot Springs). With its vast size, it’s perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Southern Shinshu -
Achi Village: Night tour of the sky
Ride a gondola admiring the starry sky or gaze at the universe from atop the mountain where city lights do not reach. The installed lights will be turned off all at once, enabling an magnificent view. There are also talks by the guide and events that can be enjoyed even in the rain.
Southern Shinshu -
Tenryukyo line down
Experience Tenryu Gorge in a way that can only be seen from a boat, offering an exclusive scenic adventure.
Southern Shinshu -
Utsukushigahara Plateau Hiking
A vast open-air sculpture museum spanning 40,000 tsubo (132,331 sqm), offering large-scale outdoor exhibitions.
Ueda -
Karuizawa Garden Farm Strawberry Farm
Enjoy strawberry picking year-round in the Karuizawa Highlands, where a variety of seasonal strawberry types await.
Saku -
IWATAKE WHITE PARK
At an elevation of 1,289 meters, the mountaintop offers an exceptional winter sightseeing experience.
Northern Alps -
HAKUBA IWATAKE SNOW FIELD
On the second day, dive into various activities at Hakuba Iwatake Snowfield— not just skiing and snowboarding, but a wide range of thrilling experiences to enjoy to the fullest.
Northern Alps -
Yudanaka Onsen Yorozuya
Relax in six distinctive baths filled with longevity-enhancing hot spring waters, rich in character and tradition.
Hokushin -
Okushiga Kogen
A snow resort nestled deep in the heart of Shiga Kogen, offering a serene winter escape.
Hokushin -
Yokoteyama Shibutoge Ski Resort Snow Monster Night Tour
Witness massive frost-covered trees, resembling monstrous ice formations, creating an awe-inspiring natural spectacle.
Hokushin
-
Ryokan Fujioto
A serene inn preserving the nostalgic atmosphere of Tsumago-juku. Relax in a traditional Japanese room and soak in a cypress bath, surrounded by a meticulously maintained Japanese garden, offering both physical and mental rejuvenation.
Kiso -
Sekitaitei Ishida
A hidden retreat nestled in the foothills, where you can experience the ultimate slow-life getaway.
Southern Shinshu -
Hoshino Resorts KAI Matsumoto (Asama Onsen)
Enjoy a glass of wine while listening to beautiful acoustics resonating within a dome.
Matsumoto -
Ougatou Hotel
Spend a special moment in a resort above the clouds, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Matsumoto -
Karuizawa Mampei Hotel
A heritage hotel representing Japan, where nature, history, and heartfelt hospitality harmonize beautifully. Immerse yourself in its grand and timeless atmosphere.
Saku -
Karuizawa Longing House
A vegetable-focused auberge restaurant, offering not only exquisite local vegetables but also carefully selected farm-to-table ingredients.
Saku -
Hotel Sierra Resort Hakuba
Hotel Sierra Resort Hakuba—an eco-conscious resort designed to coexist with nature, offering a tranquil and sustainable retreat.
Northern Alps -
Hotel Grand Phenix Okushiga
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the majestic nature of Oku-Shiga.
Hokushin
-
Hirugami Onsen Morning Market
A morning market where local producers sell seasonal vegetables, processed goods, and more. You can also find a variety of souvenirs to take home.
Southern Shinshu -
Yamabe Winery / Farmers Garden
Enjoy Yamabe Red, Yamabe White, and Yamabe Rosé— find your favorite local wine.
Matsumoto -
Manns Wines Komoro Winery
As a pioneer of the Chikuma River Wine Valley, the winery is dedicated to crafting Japanese wine from Japanese grapes, producing world-class wines. Winery tours are also available.
Saku