The capital of Nagano Prefecture, which is often called the "roof of Japan" and is home to the highest mountain ranges in the country, Nagano is known for its skiing and snowboarding. Several facilities from the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics remain open—but even if you’ve no interest in winter sports, you’ll find plenty of things to do here. Whether you're exploring Zenkōji Temple, soaking in an onsen with a view of snow-capped peaks, or enjoying the local cuisine, Nagano promises an exciting trip into the heart of Japan.
Snow sports fans flock to Nagano between December and February when snowfall is heavy and temperatures are low, with average highs of 41°F (5°C). Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are also appealing seasons: temperatures are mild and you can admire the pinks of cherry blossoms and rusted hues of fall foliage. Summer temperatures are typically around a comfortable high of 83°F (28°C) and the city mercifully lacks the intense humidity of Tokyo.
Getting around the city of Nagano and further into Nagano Prefecture is a breeze thanks to a robust and reliable public transportation network. City buses can get you to all points of interest, including Zenkōji Temple and the former Olympic facilities, while Nagano Station is served by direct trains from all across the region as well as Tokyo and Kanazawa.
Soba (buckwheat noodles) is a specialty in Nagano Prefecture, where buckwheat grows abundantly. You’ll find plenty of places to try soba in Nagano, including on the vendor-lined street leading to Zenkōji Temple. You can also try your hand at making soba noodles from scratch—from kneading and rolling the dough to cutting and cooking the noodles—by booking a cooking class with a local chef.
