Overview

Located in central Japan, Nagano is a picturesque city surrounded by mountains and renowned for its historical sites, natural beauty, and diverse cultural offerings. This vibrant destination is known for being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympics as well as its famous Zenkoji Temple. With its hot springs, excellent skiing resorts, and traditional festivals, Nagano has something to offer every type of traveler.

Getting around

• Nagano is well-connected to major cities in Japan by trains, buses, and flights.
• The city has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and subway lines.
• Taxis are readily available for convenient and private transportation.

Top attractions

• Zenkoji Temple: A sacred Buddhist site dating back to the 7th century, known for its wooden statue of Buddha and beautiful architecture.
• Jigokudani Monkey Park: Famous for its hot spring-bathing snow monkeys.
• Matsumoto Castle: One of Japan’s most beautiful original castles, a four-century-old architectural marvel.
• Togakure Ninja Museum: Explore the history and techniques of the ninja warriors.
• Nagano Olympic Stadium: Site of the 1998 Winter Olympics, offering a glimpse into Olympic history.

Outdoor adventures

• Skiing and snowboarding: Nagano offers world-class winter sports facilities, including the Hakuba and Shiga Kogen ski resorts.
• Hiking and nature trails: Explore the stunning landscapes of Kamikochi and the Japanese Alps.
• Cycling: Nagano boasts picturesque cycling routes, such as the Zenkoji Path and the Nagano Discovery Route.
• Onsen hot springs: Relax and rejuvenate in the many hot spring resorts scattered throughout the region.

Cultural experiences

• Nagano offers a wealth of traditional festivals, including the famous Nagano Festival and the Obuse Matsuri.
• Visit the Matsumoto Performing Arts Center for traditional music and dance performances.
• Explore the historic Nakamachi Street in Matsumoto, lined with traditional merchant houses.
• Experience traditional Japanese cuisine, including soba noodles, oyaki dumplings, and sake.

Shopping and dining

• Explore the bustling shopping streets of Nagano City, offering a wide range of local crafts, souvenirs, and fashion.
• Sample local delicacies at food markets, izakayas, and restaurants throughout the city.
• Try Nagano’s renowned apples and sake produced in the surrounding area.

Additional tips

• Plan your visit during cherry blossom season in April for a stunning display of pink blooms.
• Check out the Nagano Snow Monkeys website for updates on the best times to see the snow monkeys bathing.