Top Tours & Activities in Nagano

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way toexplore both of the ancient post towns! You can travel between Magome and Tsumago by infrequent direct bus. Nakasendo was one of the two highways during the Edo period connecting Tokyo with Kyoto, running through the Kiso Valley. Travelers at that time walked along the highway, stopping at "post towns" for rest. Some of those post towns have been well preserved and show tourists today exactly what Japan was like hundreds of years ago. Stunning forests, beautiful villages and traditions, we would love to recommend it to everyone interested in Japanese nature and history. This private tour is a walking day tour. A private vehicle is not included. Public transportation or local taxis may be used. Exact transportation costs can be discussed with the guide after a reservation is finalized. Please have Japanese Yen on hand for your transportation costs.

Sitting just outside Nagano City, the forests of Togakushi are home to some of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines, sacred places that are linked to the myths of the creation of Japan itself, and the mountain refuge of the Togakure Ninja. This engaging tour gives insight into the daily lives of the ninja, taking you along short sections of the pilgrimage trails of the ‘Togakushi Kodo,’ and deep into culture, myth, and legend. This tour includes a hands-on soba making experience, visits to two of the most important Shinto shrines, the Togakushi Ninja Museum, and ends with a stroll through the grand avenue of giant cedar trees.

We’ll begin with a visit to the famous Snow Monkey Park, where you can watch wild Japanese macaques enjoying a soak in the hot springs—set in the peaceful mountains of Nagano. After the walk, we’ll head over to the nearby Shibu Onsen area, a beautiful historic hot spring town. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant here, featuring freshly made soba noodles and other regional specialties. After lunch, you’ll have time to unwind in one of Shibu Onsen’s public baths. The mineral-rich waters are said to have healing properties and offer the perfect way to relax. And for a bit of extra fun, there’s the chance to collect stamps from different hot springs using a special towel—a local tradition that adds a playful touch to your visit. Whether you're here to relax, explore, or enjoy good food and drink, this tour offers a great mix of what makes Nagano special. Optional free pick-up support available upon request. Our tours start from April 15, 2025.Join us for an amazing experience

Discover the spiritual side of Nagano on a guided tour of Zenkoji Temple. Enjoy a tasting of sake at a local brewery, savor the flavors of 'oyaki' dumplings, and take part in a tea experience.

Walking along the 400-year-old lined cedar trees and walking on the frozen lake experience are special experiences that can only be found here. Let's explore the winter of Togakushi, where mountain ascetic have been practicing the mountain worship since ancient times. The experience of walking along a row of 400-year-old cedar trees and a frozen lake is a special experience that cannot be found anywhere else. Let's explore the winter of Togakushi, where the trainees have practiced rigorously since ancient times, wearing snowshoes!

Home to more than eighty ski resorts such as Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, Hakuba, and many more, as well as featuring some of the country’s best powder and terrain – all within easy access of Tokyo and its airports – we consider Nagano to be Japan’s best ski destination. Perfect as a day trip from Tokyo, or just to enhance an already amazing Japan vacation, we’re here to offer a stress free all-inclusive day ski package featuring everything you need to enjoy your day. From transport to the ski resort, rental equipment (including skis or snowboard, poles and boots and bindings, top and bottom wear, gloves, and goggles), lift passes, and even optional lessons, this package is perfect for those who wish to try skiing or snowboarding for the first time or those experienced who want to challenge Japan’s slopes themselves without the hassle of carrying all of their equipment!

Enjoy a premium small-group tour (typically 6–8 guests, maximum 12), blending nature, culture, and food. Start your day at Nagano Station and visit the iconic Snow Monkey Park, walking through serene forests to see wild monkeys soaking in natural hot springs. Next, explore the charming town of Obuse, enjoying a local lunch and a sake tasting at a historic brewery, sampling two premium sakes. Discover the Hokusai Museum, showcasing masterpieces by Japan’s ukiyo-e legend, and stroll through picturesque streets lined with traditional shops. For those seeking more, an optional visit to the historic Zenkoji Temple—one of Japan’s most revered Buddhist sites—is available on 8:45 AM departures (not available on 9:35 AM departures). Walk in the footsteps of centuries of pilgrims and experience its serene atmosphere. With beautiful scenery, cultural experiences, and insights from a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a curated day immersed in Nagano’s nature, art, history, and flavors.

On this tour, spend a half-day (about 4 hours) getting in touch with both the nature and city daily life of Nagano while cycling with your English-speaking tour guide and small group.

Embark on a captivating journey through Nagano, where history, culture, and culinary delights converge. After meeting your guide at Matsumoto Station, step into the past at Matsumoto Castle, a national treasure dating back to the 16th century. Ascend its wooden halls, absorb the ambiance of tatami mat floors, and relish panoramic views from the castle keep, unraveling the tales of feudal Japan. Continue with a sake-tasting odyssey at a historic brewery run by seasoned owners. Immerse yourself in the nuances of local sake flavors. Savor 2 street foods (e.g. sweet rice dumplings, taiyaki, oyaki) on the the lively Nawate Street affectionately known as Frog Street. Delve into history at Nakamachi Shopping Street, an Edo-period avenue adorned with well-preserved merchant houses. Explore quaint shops and cafes, absorbing the echoes of Matsumoto's past. Reflect on a day filled with Matsumoto's medieval grandeur and modernity as the tour concludes at Matsumoto Station.

Combining a visit to Nagano’s world-famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park and evening exploration of the Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival, this enjoyable 1-day tour marks the midpoint of winter and illuminates Nagano’s ancient heart! Including an early dinner at Monzen Terrace Enya, this tour brings warmth and light into the midst of winter. This tour begins at Nagano Station, from where you will be transported to the Jigokudani Monkey Park before returning to Nagano City for a warming winter dinner at Monzen Terrace Enya, before being guided around the Zenko-ji Temple precinct in the beauty and tranquility of its annual Tomyo Lantern Festival. All led by a locally-based, English-speaking guide, this tour is a great way to experience the best of Nagano in winter.

On this full day private tour, visit the city of Matsumoto with your tour guide. Enjoy the historical Matsumoto Castle, the unique streets of Nawate and Nakamachi and see Daio Wasasbi Farm, the largest wasabi farm in Japan in the tranquil Hotaka Town.

In recent years Central Japan has become increasingly popular as a stop along the Tokyo to Kyoto “Golden Route”. The reason for this, simply stated, is that Central Japan offers every experience the traveler could desire from Japan, while also being located close to some of Japan’s largest cities, such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. From majestic mountain peaks to delicious local sake, and of course the famous Snow Monkeys, our multiple day group tour of this amazing region of Japan will bring you to every location you dreamed of, and many you may not have heard of yet. Starting in Nagano and ending in Kanazawa, this tour is perfect for those wishing to move through central Japan and removes the necessity of dealing with train and bus transfers. While accommodation is not included, transport between all destinations and an English speaking guide are provided on every day of the tour, so you do not have to worry about the small things and can instead focus on enjoying your vacation time.

Discover the sacred forests and ancient shrines of Togakushi on this guided walking tour from Nagano. Follow hidden mountain paths lined with towering cedars, visit important Shinto sites like Chusha and Okusha, and hear the legends of Japanese mythology from your local English-speaking guide. Along the way, take in stunning alpine scenery and enjoy a traditional lunch of handmade Togakushi soba noodles, a regional specialty. Depending on the season and conditions, the route may also include quiet forest trails, scenic ponds, or optional cultural stops.

Walk in the footsteps of Japan’s most celebrated artist, Hokusai Katsushika, on this engaging one-day tour in the quaint, historic town of Obuse. Starting from Nagano Station, you will visit Hokusai’s original studio in Obuse, view his original work at the Obuse Hokusai-kan Museum and finally, view his last and largest remaining ‘in-situ’ artwork – the giant phoenix of Gansho-in Temple. Including plenty of time to explore Obuse for yourself, this tour is designed to introduce you to or further your understanding of Japan’s greatest artist in the very place he walked, worked and produced his final masterpiece.

Begin your morning in Kamikochi, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, clear rivers, and untouched marshlands. Departing early from Matsumoto or Nagano, you'll arrive before the crowds—when the air is crisp and the trails are quiet. Skip the bus lines with our direct ride in. Take a 2.5 to 3-hour walk from Kappa Bridge to Taisho Pond, returning via Tashiro Bridge. Forest and riverside paths bring you close to nature, with guide insights along the way. Enjoy lunch at your own pace—on a bench or by the river. Bring something simple—cafés can be crowded. Later, visit Matsumoto Castle—Japan’s oldest original wooden fortress. Skip the line with pre-booked entry and explore freely. Guests preferring a later start may begin with the castle, followed by a walk in Kamikochi’s soft afternoon light. Thoughtfully designed for small groups, this tour blends mountain stillness with cultural depth—ideal for travelers who value calm, beauty, and discovery.

Discover Kamikochi, a pristine alpine valley at 1,500m. Walk quiet trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy pure air in a protected sanctuary. Travel smoothly with a private guide, with photos gifted after. ❑ A Special Day in Kamikochi At 1,500m in the Japanese Alps, Kamikochi is one of Japan’s most beautiful valleys. Walk forest paths and cross bridges as you breathe alpine air. You may glimpse monkeys, stoats, or even a rare Japanese serow. With rivers, clean air, and open views, this vehicle-free sanctuary is a serene escape. ❑ Why Private? Public transport is slow, crowded, and inflexible, since private cars are restricted. With your own car to the entrance and an English-speaking guide to manage transfers, the journey is smooth and tailored to you. ❑ A Personalized Journey We guide you to quiet trails, viewpoints, and hidden spots others miss. Wildlife, scenery, and alpine calm are photographed and gifted afterward as memories.

The class is held at the over 130 years old house. It was built in Machiya style and was used to be a house of Shoya, the biggest merchant in the city at that time. You can have a look around the unique inside. We will show you traditional life style such as Koto, a Japanese harp and an old sawing machine, which have been carefully stored for a long time in Kura, an old style storage in back of the house. The kitchen is made of Sake barrel lids came from a local brewery. It’s located on the second floor, you will see the beautiful Japanese garden. We provide aprons, so you don’t need to bring anything. We will give you a recipe that you can cook at your country. The class consists of some basics of Japanese cooking, such as how to make Dashi broth, and introduction of local made ingredients, which are not normally seen at regular supermarkets. We will explain for you to cook at home when you go back. Recipes are adjustable for vegetarians and vegans.

Discover a side of Japan most visitors miss with this 3-day countryside immersion in Nagano. Cycle quiet backroads, meet locals in farming hamlets, and relax in hot spring villages - all just a short train ride from Tokyo. Unlike a simple day trip, this experience offers a deeper look at life in rural Japan’s Snow Country. Days are filled with gentle cycling, cultural encounters, and changing scenery through rice fields, rivers, and mountain valleys. Evenings are at traditional inns with seasonal meals and a warm welcome from local hosts. Designed for travelers who want to slow down and experience daily life in rural Japan, this trip blends activity and relaxation into an unforgettable journey. Highlights: - Cycle through rural hamlets, rice fields, and riverside paths - Stay in traditional farm inns with seasonal country meals - Experience onsen culture at historic a hot-spring town - Connect with local residents and countryside traditions - Only 2 hours form Tokyo by Shinkansen

Discover the Art of Hokusai in Obuse: A Walking Tour with Sake & Local Flavors. Step into the world of ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai on this walking tour in Obuse, just 30 minutes by train from Nagano City. Obuse offers a unique mix of history, art, and local culture. ・Explore Hokusai’s Legacy: Visit the Hokusai Museum and Kozan Takai Memorial Museum to discover the life and works of the artist behind The Great Wave. ・Temple Experience: See Hokusai’s ‘Phoenix Glaring in All Directions’ at Ganshoin Temple, a stunning ceiling painting of a phoenix that follows you. ・Sake Tasting & Local Delights: Enjoy sake tasting at a local brewery and a delicious lunch at a trendy restaurant, showcasing Obuse’s culinary scene. ・Experience Obuse's Charm: Wander through picturesque streets, meet local shopkeepers, and explore the town’s culture and history. This tour blends art, history, and local flavors for an unforgettable experience in one of Japan’s most charming towns.

Start the day off by visiting the Snow Monkey Park. As winter comes to an end and temperatures slowly rise, this is the last chance to see the Snow Monkeys bathe in the hot springs this year! Following the Snow Monkey Park, we offer you an exclusive look into the historic Onsen Village of Shibu. It is not uncommon to see locals and visitors walking the streets in traditional clothing such as kimono and geta (wooden sandals). Finally, end the night at Takada Castle. Takada Castle is one of the top 3 places in Japan to view cherry blossoms at night, featuring 4,000 sakura trees with spectacular illumination. Visitors can immerse themselves in the pale pink full bloom across the entire grounds. The lighting creates a mirror-like reflection of the trees on the placid moat waters. Additionally, the site hosts many food stalls offering treats like curry bread, yakisoba, and dango.