All Nagano Prefecture Tours & Excursions in 2026

Explore the historic towns of Magome and Tsumago more efficiently with a private guide on this walking tour. Save energy by traveling between the towns by local bus or taxi, and avoid the risk of getting lost by going with a guide. Learn more about Japanese history and culture from your guide and get plenty of time to explore the two historical villages.

Discover the wild Japanese Giant Flying Squirrel during this guided nature tour. Professional nature guides who're familiar with the squirrel's lifestyle and gliding patterns will help you see them in their natural habitat. Native to Japan, learn about where they live and why, as well as their diet and behaviors while visiting the Picchio Visitor Center. Afterwards, bask in the silence and admire the sight of the squirrels at play.

Matsumoto is a vibrant city steeped in arts, history, and culture. It is known for a feudal castle, cafes, folk arts and a traditional shopping district. Whether you are on your way to the Northern Alps or Matsumoto is your destination, see the best of the city with a government licensed local tour guide. Choose from several attractions, including the Matsumoto Castle and museums, for a tour of your own design.

If you’re looking for an overview tour of some of Nagano’s best bits, then this is it. After a hassle-free pickup, set off on an adventure to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, and Shibu Onsen, with admission included to save you time waiting in ticket lines. To keep energy levels high, you can also benefit from having a soba noodle lunch included.

Shinanoji Nature Trail is a hiking course about 10km in length, which is almost a descent from the peak teahouse. Walk about 7,5 km to the hot spots in Oze, which has many attractions. A downhill trek is relaxed while being healed by the colorful miscellaneous trees and larch forest. You can also see the two famous Karuizawa waterfalls (Shiraito Falls and Dragon Falls) along the way. This course is recommended for people who are not always confident in their physical fitness, and young and old alike, since the entire trip is almost a descent. From Oze Onsen, it is also possible to return to the peak chaya parking lot by bus or directly to Karuizawa Station.

Kintsugi reflects the Japanese spirit of cherishing the things we own. Through this technique, vessels—whether filled with cherished memories or broken due to age—can be restored to a usable state. In this workshop, we use resin to complete the kintsugi process in just a few hours, whereas the traditional method typically takes months. Kintsugi traditionally employs *urushi* (Japanese lacquer), a material deeply rooted in Japanese culture. By incorporating *urushi* at the final stage of this class, you can experience this aspect of Japanese culture firsthand.

Avoid the risk of getting lost in the Japanese Alps when you take a private day hike with a guide. Enjoy a beginner-friendly hike along the Nakasendo Trail between two traditional villages, Magome and Tsumago. Learn more about Japanese history and culture from your guide, and enjoy getting some exercise in the beautiful landscape.

Instead of joining a large group for an in personal experience, discover Karuizawa in comfort during this private trip led by a licensed guide. Uncover hidden gems and indulge in the natural landscapes and exciting attractions of this mountain resort. Take an intimate journey through the beloved retreat of John Lennon, choosing from a variety of curated experiences along the way.

Guests on this exciting 1 day tour of Matsumoto Castle and Narai-juku will have the chance to get hands-on with Japan's fascinating history by personally entering the renowned Matsumoto Castle and strolling the streets of the quaint Narai-juku. There will also be opportunities to walk the downtown area of Matsumoto city and window shop or taste some of its delicious local specialties. With all transport included in the tour, you will not have to worry about anything more than which souvenirs to buy for your family and friends. This tour also includes a seasonal activity at Narai-juku, to allow you to get even closer to the fascinating culture of this region of Japan which often feels as though it has been pulled out of a different era.

Meet Nagano’s famous snow monkeys. With a private car and guide, avoid crowds and enjoy a personalized journey. Special moments are photographed and delivered as memories. ❑ A Unique and Fascinating Experience In the mountains of Nagano, wild monkeys soak in hot springs — a rare glimpse into animal life that feels almost human. Each season shows a different charm, from snowy baths in winter to playful scenes in summer. This private tour avoids crowds and creates moments only locals know. With a dedicated camera, every scene is captured and gifted as keepsakes. ❑ Why Private? Because it’s private, the trip adapts to your pace. Public transport takes hours with transfers, and nearby dining is limited. With a private car and English-speaking guide, travel and meals are smooth. ❑ A Personalized Journey Free from rigid schedules, you’ll explore with a local guide and private vehicle. Insider stories, flexible timing, and photo gifts ensure a truly special day.

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Karuizawa! Karuizawa is a quaint mountain resort that’s rich in nature and a prime leisure destination. From stunning natural landscapes to fun filled man made attractions, there’s always something to see and do in the place John Lennon loved to escape to. In this guide, we’ll introduce some of the best things to do when you visit, so you can pick what suits you, without the stress. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a six-hour tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Explore “Old Japan” on a relaxed day trip to Narai-juku (a beautifully preserved Nakasendo post town) and a hands-on wasabi grating lunch at Daio Wasabi Farm. Enjoy a guided walk plus free time in Narai-juku—browse small shops, try local snacks, and take photos at your own pace. Then grate fresh wasabi for lunch and take a short stroll along the clear-water canals and iconic waterwheels. Not a rushed checklist tour—we keep the pace calm so you can truly enjoy the town and taste what real freshly grated wasabi is like. Main option: Matsumoto Start (9:45 AM) → return to Matsumoto Station, with an optional Matsumoto Castle drop-off (entry ticket not included; tour ends at the drop-off). Also available: Nagano Start (8:45 AM) → return to Nagano Station (no castle option). -Narai-juku guided walk + free time (about 2 hours) -Daio Wasabi Farm: wasabi grating lunch + stroll (about 1.5 hours) -Small premium group tour with an English-speaking local guide

Itinerary Time Table: Matsumoto (Meet 11:05 Dep. 11:15) → Kawaguchiko (Arr. 14:00, Dep. 15:45) → Tokyo Station (Arr. 18:40) *Please note that times may vary due to traffic conditions. Depart from Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture and journey through scenic landscapes on the way to Kawaguchiko. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility to enjoy the Japanese countryside in comfort during the journey to your destination, without having to worry about luggage transportation or transfers. Be charmed by the tranquil beauty of the Fuji Five Lakes area after you arrive at Kawaguchiko, surrounded by lush nature that changes dramatically with the seasons. Bold and vibrant fall leaves, speckled-pink flowery sights in the spring, and vibrant verdure in the summer. For those going to Tokyo, after making our 1.5 hour stop (free-time) at Kawaguchiko, we will see the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center before we make our last stop at the Yaesu Bus Terminal in Tokyo, conveniently located next to Tokyo Station.

Ever dreamed of discovering the hidden soul of Japan? This 4-hour Matsumoto walking tour is your perfect gateway to history, culture, and unforgettable flavors guided by a passionate local! Nakamachi Street Stroll through a beautifully preserved Edo-period merchant town where history meets modern creativity. Nawate Street Meet Matsumoto's beloved frog mascot and treat yourself to taiyaki or dango along the charming riverside! Yotsude Shrine Draw an omikuji fortune slip and uncover the beautiful rituals of everyday Japanese life. Matsumoto Castle Marvel at the legendary "Crow Castle," a National Treasure with stunning Alpine views and samurai secrets only your guide can reveal! A Feast for the Senses From soba and oyaki to the iconic Okina-do, discover the true flavors of Nagano with your local guide! A one-of-a-kind experience you simply cannot have on your own.

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route offers a remarkable journey through Japan's Northern Japan Alps, showcasing stunning alpine scenery and unique transportation experiences. Traverse the route via cable cars, ropeways, and buses, while witnessing breathtaking landscapes that change with the seasons. Highlights include the famous Yuki-no-Otani Snow Corridor in spring, vibrant autumn foliage, and the impressive Kurobe Dam. Each season reveals a different side of this natural wonder, making it a year-round destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. -Take comfortable bus from Nagano/Kanazawa, explore Northern Alps. -Spring-limited "Snow Wall Valley", a spectacular snow wall landscape that you must see once. -Visit world-class engineering marvel, the Kurobe Dam, experience firsthand the magnificent grandeur of Japan's largest dam. -Enjoy unique journey using six different mountain transportation in one day. -Special gift: Hokushinetsu specialty and local cuisine "Sasa Sushi".

Swap Nagano for an exploration to Matsumoto and Kamikochi in a day. Instead of looking up bus timetables, you can benefit from having round-trip transportation included. Along the way, check off a mix of scenic nature spots, as well as historical attractions, such as Matsumoto Castle, with guided tours included for extra convenience.

This Tour get's you best locations trip around in Nagano including historic place and delicious Japanese Food. Our experienced Driver will get you around at your ease. Let's visualize Zenko-ji Temple, Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park & delicious food at famous restaurant in Nagano area. This trip is fully customizable.

Experience two of the most stunning locations that Nagano has to offer: the world-famous Snow Monkey Park, with its charming hot spring-bathing macaque monkeys, and Togakushi Shrine, also known as the "Five Shrines", famous for its breathtaking forest path lined with towering ancient cedar trees. Starting from Nagano Station, this tour will take you to Jigokudani Monkey Park, commonly known as the Snow Monkey Park, to see Nagano’s most iconic residents—the Japanese macaque monkeys that bathe in their natural hot spring. After enjoying a Japanese-style lunch at a local restaurant, continue to the 1,000-year-old Togakushi Shrine complex to learn about its deep spiritual history and walk the cedar-lined path to the "Okusha," or inner shrine. Enjoy Nagano’s unique nature and wildlife while also learning about Japanese culture, Shinto traditions, and religious history, set within a breathtaking mountain landscape.

Japan’s Nagano prefecture is widely regarded as the country’s winter capital, due to its snowy landscapes and premium ski spots. Visit one of Japan’s most famous winter spots on a 3.5-hour tour of Jigokudani Monkey Park from Shimotakai-gun. Marvel at red-faced Japanese macaques as they bathe in steaming ‘onsen’ (hot springs) and follow walking trails rife with flora and fauna.

Discover Kamikochi, a pristine alpine valley at 1,500m. Walk quiet trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy pure air. Travel smoothly with a private guide, with photos gifted after. ❑ A Special Day in Kamikochi Kamikochi offers breathtaking beauty each season. Beat the intense heat and enjoy a cool 22°C (71°F) paradise with shaded trails, crisp air, and icy rivers in summer. Witness a golden, fiery-red wonderland framed by majestic peaks in autumn. You may glimpse monkeys, stoats, or a rare Japanese serow. With 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.

Matsumoto is world-famous for its earthy soba noodles made from buckwheat flour. It is also known for its well-preserved feudal castle. Experience both on this unique tour of the city. After touring Matsumoto Castle—one of Japan's National Treasures—you will learn how to prepare a traditional soba dish and then taste its exquisite flavors! Both exciting and enriching, this hands-on experience gives you an unforgettable way to learn about Japanese history and culture.

Walk Togakushi’s cedar avenue to shrines tied to mountain worship and ninja legends. Enjoy handmade soba at local spots, with smooth travel by private car, guide, and photo memories gifted. ❑ A Special Day in Nagano Discover the spiritual heart of Nagano on this private tour. Follow the cedar avenue to shrines linked to mountain worship and ninja lore. For lunch, skip crowds and enjoy handmade soba at hidden favorites, a tradition of the region. This journey blends nature, spirituality, and culture in one memorable day. ❑ Why Private? Because it’s private, the tour fits your pace and interests. Public transport is slow with transfers, and restaurants often crowded. With a private car and English-speaking guide, travel and dining are smooth and stress-free. ❑ A Personalized Journey Our tours go beyond major sights. We avoid crowds and create local experiences. From walking the cedar path to savoring soba, moments are photographed and gifted afterward as lasting memories.

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!