Top Nagano Spring Break

See two of the top attractions near Nagano on this full-day excursion. Explore the tranquil grounds of the 1400-year-old Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan's most important temples. Enjoy a guided sake tasting at a nearby brewery and a hearty lunch at a local restaurant. Then, head to the Snow Monkey Park, located down a beautiful forest trail, to witness a group of local macaques known for their willingness to live in the snow and bathe in the local hot springs.

Discover Matsumoto on this full-day tour designed to cover the city’s key cultural highlights in one rewarding day. Explore black-walled Matsumoto Castle, a rare original fortress rich in samurai history. Visit a 150-year-old miso brewery for a guided tour and onigiri lunch. Stroll Japan’s largest wasabi farm, with time to try wasabi ice cream and local treats. Stop at a scenic countryside winery for a casual tasting of local wines. End at the Ukiyo-e Museum, home to one of Japan’s major woodblock print collections. ※ Depart from Nagano (8:00 AM / 8.5 hrs) or Matsumoto (9:30 AM / 6.25 hrs). Finish at either station. Luggage accepted only for one-way transfers between Nagano and Matsumoto (advance notice required). ・Matsumoto Castle ・Miso brewery tour & onigiri lunch ・Japan’s largest wasabi farm & local treats ・Casual local wine tasting at a scenic winery ・Ukiyo-e Museum print collection ・Start/finish at Nagano or Matsumoto (luggage one-way only, notice required)

Near the famous Zenkoji Temple, Togakushi Shrine, Nozawa Onsen, and the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, Obuse offers a perfect cultural stop before or after your visit! Savor a delicious bowl of ramen featuring locally-made miso (vegan ramen available) before stepping back in time at a 240-year-old miso brewery. Learn traditional miso making techniques and create your own 1kg batch of miso to take home. (Your miso will require several months of fermentation before it's ready to enjoy.) This unforgettable experience is a must for miso lovers and anyone interested in exploring Obuse's rich cultural traditions. We are happy to accommodate earlier or later start times upon request. If you'd like to further customize the itinerary, please let us know! Note: Children under 12 make miso with an adult (child price excludes the miso-making fee).

Are you a Sake beginner or an expert? This Sake brewery private tour brings you not only to the world of Sake but also exclusive cultural experiences. I will take you to Ichinoya Sake Brewery, established in 1865, which still produces high quality Sake with traditional methods. You will see the house’s brewing process mostly by human hands with limited mechanicals, which is designated as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2024. The tour includes; - Visiting Ichinoya Sake Brewery, discover how Sake is made - Sake and water tasting - Lunch with local ingredients over Ichinoya’s series of Sake at Wachigai restaurant, whose building is traditional Machiya style build in late Edo period, with great atmosphere - Shopping Sake and other local products - Pictures are taken throughout the tour and shared to the guests It starts at 11:00am and takes about 2~3 hours including lunch. Free after lunch. This tour can take at most 6 people. Tour is held only once a day.

Discover the charming Iiyama region in Nagano on this immersive day trip. Visit the stunning Mayumi Takahashi Doll Museum and enjoy a traditional Shojin ryori lunch at Daishoji Temple. Experience the art of sake brewing with a guided tour and tasting at Tanakaya Shuzo, where you’ll learn about the intricate process of sake production. This private tour includes hotel pickup, bullet train travel, and an English-speaking licensed guide, ensuring a personalized experience. Perfect for those interested in culture, history, and gastronomy. - Private tour with only your group participating - Hotel pickup and bullet train included for convenience - Sake brewery tour and tasting experience - Traditional Shojin ryori lunch provided (for 4+ guests) - Takahashi Mayumi Doll Museum is closed on Wednesdays, so if you choose Wednesday for your tour date, we will guide you to an alternative location.

Explore the magnificent temples and natural wonders of Nagano on a full-day tour and benefit from the undivided attention of a private guide. Visit the famous Zenkoji Temple and Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, enjoy lunch (own expense) in Obuse Town, then choose a soak in the hot springs at Shibu Onsen.

Discover the serene countryside of northern Nagano on this private full-day tour, blending wildlife encounters, art, and culinary experiences. Start with a visit to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park to see the famous snow monkeys bathing in hot springs. Next, wander through the historic town of Obuse, known for its Edo-period charm and the Hokusai Museum. Conclude your day at a local miso brewery, where you'll delve into Nagano's fermented food culture with a guided tasting experience. This tailored tour promises an authentic taste of Japanese culture, ideal for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike. - Private pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Nagano - Visit Jigokudani to see snow monkeys in their natural habitat - Explore the charming streets of Obuse and visit art galleries - Enjoy a tasting session at a local miso brewery, sampling various miso types