All Nagano Prefecture Tours & Excursions in 2026

Fed by pure spring water, Matsumoto is a city where the nature of the Northern Alps, refined craft traditions, and the quiet dignity of an old castle town come together in harmony. This gentle walking route from Matsumoto Castle to Yohashira Shrine, then onward to Nakamachi Street and Nawate Street, offers an unhurried immersion into landscapes shaped by history and aesthetics. Visits to a long-established sake brewery and a famous local spring invite you to taste the flavors born from Matsumoto’s exceptional water—a refined urban stroll that reveals the city’s true character.

This three-day journey explores the history, spirituality, culture, and natural beauty of northern Nagano. The itinerary connects some of the region’s most significant destinations, offering insight into the traditions, people, and landscapes that have shaped this part of Japan. The tour begins with Zenkoji Temple and the cultural town of Obuse, where visitors can discover the legacy of Katsushika Hokusai. The second day focuses on nature at Jigokudani Monkey Park, home to wild Japanese macaques. On the final day, the journey continues to Togakushi, known for its mountain worship traditions, historic shrines, cedar forests, and scenic landscapes. Stay at Tabiyado MICHI, a local guesthouse in northern Nagano. Days 1 and 2 are conducted using public transportation, while Day 3 uses a private vehicle to explore Togakushi. Private transportation for the entire tour is available upon request.

Discover how a small alpine city became a powerhouse of traditional craftsmanship and avant-garde art. On this immersive walk, uncover the aesthetic red thread connecting samurai castles, pseudo-Western schools, and the vibrant polka dots of Yayoi Kusama. Explore Matsumoto's identity as a City of Learning and see how reverence for education and nature created an environment where unconventional designs could flourish. From black-and-white namako walls to whimsical frog sculptures, see the city through the eyes of its visionary creators. A 3.3 km self-guided tour with 6 stops over 102 min Ideal for Art, Design & Aesthetics and History & Memory. Immersively told in a podcast style by experts and locals. Matching audio content, AI guide and navigation through the app.

This tour is designed for travelers who seek a deeper understanding of history beyond surface-level sightseeing. Traveling comfortably from Tokyo via the limited express Odoriko train, you will explore Shimoda—one of the first gateways through which Japan opened to the world—through an efficient and carefully structured itinerary. Walk through the very locations where pivotal encounters took place, from the arrival of Commodore Perry’s Black Ships to the temples and sites where negotiations unfolded. As you move through the town, you will gain insight into the tension, uncertainty, and decisions that shaped Japan’s transition to international engagement. Beyond the well-known narrative, this experience highlights the perspectives of key Japanese figures, offering a more nuanced and human understanding of this transformative era. By combining coastal landscapes with historical landmarks, this tour delivers a meaningful journey into a defining moment that reshaped Japan’s future.

Let’s enjoy the various trails that spread over Norikura Kogen on an E-Mountain Bike! E-Mountain bike stands for electric assist mountain bike. The skill-check/lessons cover basic techniques required for trail riding such as how to use brakes, derailleurs, electric functions, basic riding positions, etc. Lessons will cover how to control the bike both on and off the trail. After basic lessons, we will depart to the trail. Your guide will choose trails according to your level and ability starting from flat trails to more intermediate trails as you progress in your riding.

Experience Nagano’s top winter highlights in one private guided tour: the famous Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani and the frozen Yonako Falls. This unique adventure combines wildlife, snowshoeing, and dramatic winter scenery for an unforgettable day in Japan. Enjoy private transport with pick-up available from major resort areas including Hakuba, Matsumoto, Tsugaike, Nozawa Onsen, Myoko, Obuse, Shinano Omachi, and Shiga Kogen. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable and hassle-free winter experience. Perfect for those interested in photography, nature, culture, and hidden winter destinations. Recommended for up to 4 guests, with options for larger groups by coordinating additional guides. If you want a premium Nagano winter tour beyond standard sightseeing, this Snow Monkey and frozen waterfall experience offers a memorable and meaningful journey.

Around Zenkoji Temple, one of Japan's most important Buddhist centers, the temple approaches have seen samurai, monks, pilgrims and townspeople pass through for centuries. The dojo where this experience takes place sits in a traditional Japanese house in this historic area, offering an authentic setting that connects samurai practice with the everyday life of a regional temple city. Samurai valued matcha not only for its health benefits but also for the brief moment of reflection it provided. After intense training or between conflicts, preparing and drinking tea offered a structured pause: a way to calm the spirit, center the mind, and return to composure. This simple act balanced the warrior's outward discipline with inner stillness. The matcha moment itself is simple and unscripted. This brief pause lets you experience how samurai used tea in daily life: not as performance or ritual, but as a moment to settle the mind and restore calm.

You’ll be guided by a professional photographer to capture your journey in rich detail. We don’t just take you to famous spots—we help you uncover the charm of hidden places, local flavors, and cultural gems that most tourists miss. It’s about experiencing Japan, not just seeing it.

Book this winter Kamikochi snowshoe tour for a truly special Japan Alps experience, guided in English by a UIMLA Certified International Mountain Leader. You’ll enjoy detailed communication and professional support from start to finish, making this tour smooth and stress-free even for first-time snowshoers. Snowshoes, microspikes, and trekking poles are included, and your guide will also handle the bus reservation for you. To keep you warm and comfortable, the guide will serve a hot drink at a scenic spot, please feel free to tell us your preferred drink in advance.

Step into the timeless world of the samurai on this cultural journey through Matsushiro, one of Nagano’s hidden historical gems. Traveling comfortably by car with a local guide, you’ll explore peaceful temples, shrines, and castle ruins that preserve the spirit and elegance of old Japan. Each location reveals a different side of Japanese history and craftsmanship, from beautiful wooden temple architecture to the impressive stone foundations of former samurai castles. With its quiet streets, fewer crowds, and relaxed atmosphere, Matsushiro offers a more authentic and serene experience away from the busy tourist areas. Perfect for history lovers, culture seekers, couples, families, and curious travelers alike, this half-day tour provides a meaningful glimpse into Japan’s samurai heritage and traditional beauty. Book now and discover the quiet charm, rich history, and timeless atmosphere of Matsushiro for an unforgettable cultural experience in Nagano.

Walk through time in Narai-juku, a remarkably preserved post town on the Nakasendō, the inland highway that once linked Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo). Often described as one of the route’s most prosperous towns, Narai’s wooden main street stretches for over a kilometer, creating one of Japan’s most immersive Edo-period streetscapes. On this guided walk, you’ll uncover the link between historic travel routes and a community that still lives along them. Jump on a southbound train and in less than an hour you’ll be there! Meet your guide at Narai Station, which opened in 1909. From here, it is only a short walk to Narai-juku’s preserved main street. Your guide will introduce Narai’s role as the 34th of the 69 post towns on the Nakasendō, and why its location near the route’s midpoint helped it thrive. You'll have time to explore independently, browse the lacquerware shops and cafes that now occupy historic buildings, or simply walk the street again.

Step into the Edo period and follow in the footsteps of shoguns and travelers on the historic Nakasendo. This guided walking tour takes you across the Usui Pass, once known as the most difficult section of the route, while immersing yourself in history and nature. Along the way, Kamishibai storytelling brings to life legends of Sakamoto-juku, depicted in ukiyo-e prints. Dressed in Edo-style travel gear (sedge hat, straw raincoat, travel pass), you’ll visit landmarks such as Kumano Shrine, the Usui Sekisho checkpoint, and the Nagai Family Residence, where Emperor Meiji once stayed. Experience the journey with all five senses: See: History and legends through Kamishibai Taste: Chaya Bento with Toge no Chikara Mochi Hear: Multilingual guide commentary Smell: Cedar forest phytoncide walk Touch: Cross the pass in Edo traveler attire At the end, receive a souvenir certifying your Usui Pass crossing. Relive samurai culture and discover one of Japan’s most fascinating walking routes.

! Become a ninja and ski down the slopes! Enjoy skiing while experiencing Japanese culture! Ninja-themed ski wear will give you a special experience on the slopes just for you. The designs are fun for both adults and children, making it the perfect memory of your trip to Japan! It's also very popular for posting photos on social media.

Explore the hidden winter wonderland of Kamikochi on a guided 7 km snowshoe hike. Follow local experts through quiet tunnels to the shimmering Taisho Pond and along the Azusa River to Tashiro Pond. With dramatic alpine views and no crowds, this is a once-in-a-season way to see Japan’s Northern Alps.

This tour connects two sides of Shimosuwa that are rarely experienced together: the ancient faith of Suwa Taisha and the history of a town that once welcomed travelers on Japan’s old highways. You will visit two important Suwa Taisha shrines, learn about shrine customs and local rituals, and walk to the mysterious Manji Stone Buddha, one of the area’s most memorable spiritual landmarks. Along the way, your guide will help you understand how faith, folk belief, travel, and daily life shaped Shimosuwa. The visit to Honjin Iwanami Residence adds another layer to the experience, showing how high-ranking travelers were received in the Edo period. Rather than simply moving from one landmark to another, this walk reveals Shimosuwa as a historic crossroads of pilgrimage, worship, and travel culture.

Explore the serene trails of Mt. Iizuna, a revered mountain in Nagano, known for its lush wooded paths and spiritual significance. Along the hike, encounter 13 stone Buddhas that guide your journey through this tranquil landscape. At the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Hoku-shin mountain range—if the weather cooperates, witness the beauty of all five peaks. This hike offers a perfect blend of nature and spirituality, inviting adventurers to connect with the majestic scenery and rich history of the area.

Hakuba Private Ski & Snowboard Tour with Elite Guides Experience the ultimate winter adventure with a premium Hakuba ski and snowboard tour. Our elite team, led by a former Japan National Team member, offers customizable tours focused on fun and discovery. We tailor every moment to your group's pace. Expert coaching is also available upon request. - Elite Tours Led by a Former Japan National Team Member - Private Guided Experience Across All 9 Hakuba Resorts - Door-to-Door Luxury Transfers with In-Car Wi-Fi - On-Resort Childcare (Nursery) Inquiry & Logistics Support - Fully Tailored Day: From Fun-First Tours to Expert Coaching

Escape Tokyo for a memorable day trip to Niigata by bullet train and discover its rich history, local culture, and beautiful city scenery. Begin your journey from Tokyo Station and travel comfortably to Niigata by bullet train. Visit the Northern Culture Museum, a beautifully preserved historic residence with traditional gardens, and discover the region’s heritage and traditional lifestyle. Continue to Ponshu-kan at Niigata Station, where you can browse local specialties and products. Then enjoy panoramic views of Niigata City and the Sea of Japan from Toki Messe. Stroll through Furumachi, one of Niigata’s historic districts, and experience its traditional atmosphere and local charm. Finally, visit Minato Inari Shrine, a unique shrine with a long connection to Niigata’s maritime history, before returning to Niigata Station and taking the bullet train back to Tokyo. Experience the highlights of Niigata in one convenient day trip from Tokyo.