All Nagano Prefecture Tours & Excursions in 2026

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.

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.

Osuwa Daiko, a taiko drumming style rich in history and culture in the Suwa region, evolved from the Kagura music dedicated to Suwa Taisha. It has pioneered the modern ensemble taiko style and today attracts disciples from numerous countries worldwide who come to learn the art. This beginner-friendly tour offers the chance to learn about Osuwa Daiko and experience the spiritual essence of traditional Japanese taiko drumming.

Enjoy a tranquil canoe experience on the calm waters of Lake Shirakaba, set in the beautiful Yatsugatake mountain area. This tour is ideal for beginners and families, with a relaxed pace that allows anyone to join with confidence. Before entering the water, your professional guide provides clear safety instructions to ensure a safe and comfortable experience. As you glide across the lake by canoe, you will have the opportunity to take photos at a historic floating torii gate, a unique and symbolic sight of the area. During the break, guests can refresh themselves with natural spring water sourced from 200 meters underground. Your guide will take photos throughout the activity and provide them to you afterward, so you can fully enjoy the experience without bringing a camera. All necessary equipment is included, making this a hassle-free and memorable time on the water.

Discover Karuizawa (located in Nagano Prefecture) in comfort and style with a private chartered vehicle tour designed just for you. Whether you’re interested in exploring cultural landmarks, browsing vibrant local markets, or venturing off the beaten path, you can create a fully customized itinerary that suits your pace and interests. For added convenience, take advantage of our optional restaurant reservation service (securing a table at a locally recommended dining spot) tailored to your taste.

Discover the breathtaking winter landscapes of Norikura Highlands, including frozen waterfalls, snow-covered forests, and panoramic mountain views that few travelers ever get to see. This snowshoe tour is not just a hike – it’s an immersive winter adventure tailored by a local guide to match your pace and interests. Whether you are an adventure seeker looking for a challenge or a family with children wanting a fun and safe activity, snowshoeing offers a memorable way to connect with nature. Guests often highlight the sense of peace in the quiet winter forest and the insider knowledge shared by the guide about the local environment and culture.

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.

Join a 6-hour beginner-friendly tour to the sacred 95m frozen Fudotaki Falls. Includes a 50-minute snowcat ride, a 3-hour snowshoe hike, and a cafe lunch. ＜Tour 1＞ Operates on selected dates only 08:30 Meet at Suzaka Station 09:30 Board the snow vehicle 10:20 Get off the snow vehicle and begin the snow hike 11:10 Arrive at Mt. Neko Mountain Hut and visit the inner sanctuary of Fudoji Temple 11:25 Photo session around Fudo Falls 12:25 Arrive at the mining plateau and learn about the history of the mine 13:25 Board the snow vehicle 14:50 Arrive at Suzaka Station; tour ends ＜Tour 2＞ Operates daily 10:00 Meet at Suzaka Station 11:00 Board the snow vehicle 11:45 Get off the snow vehicle and begin the snow hike 12:35 Arrive at Mt. Neko Mountain Hut and visit the inner sanctuary of Fudoji Temple 12:50 Photo session around Fudo Falls 13:50 Arrive at the mining plateau and learn about the history of the mine 15:00 Board the snow vehicle 16:30 Arrive at Suzaka Station; tour ends

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

You can experience traditional Togakushi soba making in a calm private space in Nagano. In this special space surrounded by an old Japanese house and a Japanese garden, you can enjoy the process of making buckwheat noodles from buckwheat flour to dough, noshi (buckwheat flour) and cut carefully from scratch.After the experience, you can taste your own buckwheat noodles on the spot. Through soba making, you can not only experience Japanese food culture and the history of soba, but also experience time to face yourself.Soba-noodle making is a traditional Japanese food culture that allows you to focus on the task at hand while keeping your mind at ease, rather than just cooking. It is a memorable cultural experience that gives you both the pleasure of cooking and the joy of eating, and is recommended not only for beginners but also for families, couples, friends, and those looking for a special experience in Nagano.

Seamless & Refined Private Transfer Enjoy a smooth and elegant private transfer from Tokyo to Hakuba in the comfort of an exclusive vehicle, designed to provide a relaxed and sophisticated travel experience from start to finish. Scenic Countryside Journey Take in the beauty of Japan’s tranquil countryside as you pass through picturesque landscapes, featuring rolling valleys, pristine scenery, and stunning alpine views along the way. Premium Comfort Vehicle Travel in a carefully maintained, high-quality vehicle offering spacious interiors, plush seating, and complimentary Wi-Fi for maximum comfort and convenience. Professional Chauffeur Service Sit back and relax as an experienced, courteous chauffeur handles every detail of the journey with professionalism, safety, and attention to detail. Flexible & Personalized Travel Benefit from adaptable pickup arrangements and customized travel options tailored to meet your specific needs and preferences.

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.

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.

Discover Matsumoto through a local's perspective on this city walking tour. This castle town is made up of distinct areas each with its own characteristics. Come take an easy two hour walk with us and learn about Matsumoto City's history, culture, natural landscape, and how it has played a significant role in Japan. We'll lead you down the main areas as well as some off the beaten path areas, drink from some natural spring water wells, check out a hidden shrine, see a 360 degree city view and more.

Step into a hidden sanctuary. Enter private forests closed to the public to witness the authentic spirit of Japanese forestry through your own five senses. Forest Walk & Professional Demo: Journey with a local lumberjack to hear the “story of the forest.” See the ecosystem’s breath and witness a powerful professional tree-felling demonstration. Forest Artwork: Gather seasonal treasures like fallen leaves and nuts to create a one-of-a-kind piece of art in the tranquil woods. Optional Add-ons: Tree Felling Exp. / Tree Climbing / Woodworking [Important Note on Duration] As this is a private, tailored experience, please select the duration that matches your desired number of workshops to ensure a safe and deep immersion: - 4 Hours: Includes the core Forest Walk, Demo, and Artwork workshop. - 6 Hours: Standard activities plus 1 Add-on (e.g., trying your hand at tree felling). - 8 Hours: Standard activities plus 2 Add-ons for a full day of mountain mastery.

• Receive eSIM QR Code within minutes. • Simply scan the designated QR Code to set up the eSIM. • Validity Date: eSIM plan starts upon installation. • Plan Type: Mobile Data only. Voice and SMS not supported. • Mobile Hotspot: Supported. • Billing: One-time prepaid package with no auto-renewals or contracts. • Compatibility: Works with eSIM-compatible devices that are not carrier locked. Please be aware that most devices bought in China and Hong Kong do not support eSIM. It’s advisable to check online to see if your device is eSIM-compatible, or contact your service provider. • Do ensure your travel plans are confirmed. No refunds or cancellations are given due to eSIM compatibility issues or changes in the itinerary. • Support: Please respond to the email from the Viator Supplier for any assistance or queries. • Expiration: Start using the eSIM within one-month of purchase. • *Connections to major local mobile network at 4G LTE or 5G speeds, depending on availability.

Exploring the Secrets of 10,000 Years of Peaceful Jomon Era In today’s world, we are witnessing frequent international conflicts and wars, threatening peace on a global scale. Additionally, we face global warming, extreme weather, and related food crises, which contribute to a growing sense of insecurity. We believe the Jomon period in Japan holds the key to the peace people seek and the coexistence with nature needed to protect the planet. The Jomon period is unique in world history for having maintained peace for over 10,000 years. In Hara Village, Nagano Prefecture and Yatsugatake, a region where the Jomon culture flourished, many messages left by Jomon people remain. This tour invites you to feel the spirit of peace the Jomon people cultivated, based on the messages they left behind. This special journey will allow you to touch the Jomon spirit and search for clues to a better future. Let’s discover the essence of peace by learning from the past.

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.

This type of Tour is for those who are interested in having a custom tour in Kamikochi and/or Norikura. For these tours we offer full day Kamikochi Tours to Kappa Bridge, Kamikochi+Norikura frozen waterfall combination tours, and other tours upon request. Starting times and finishing times can be adjusted. We can also pick you up at your hotel (Norikura, Shirahone, Sawando area only) or at certain bus stops (Oyakodaki, Sawando, Nakanoyu) if you are traveling from Matsumoto or Takayama. **IMPORTANT Notice: Arriving to Kappa Bridge is not guarunteed depending on physical fitness, time schedule, and for those coming by Bus. If you want a higher chance at arriving at Kappa Bridge we must start earlier at around 8:00am. For an 8:00am start you must stay in Norikura prior to the Tour or come by rental car to NORHTSTAR. There is no early bus that arrives at this time. Please plan accordingly. Guides will make the final decisions on the trail regarding when to turn back.

Embark on an exclusive 8-hour journey through the scenic heritage and artisanal soul of the Japanese Alps. Relax in the ultimate comfort of a high-end luxury van as you travel seamlessly between the historic streets of Matsumoto and the tranquil landscapes of Azumino. This immersive tour offers a perfect balance of architectural history and hands-on artistry. Explore two National Treasures—the majestic Matsumoto Castle and the historic Former Kaichi School—before savoring a fresh lunch at Japan’s largest wasabi farm. The highlight of your afternoon is a personalized craft session where you can choose between traditional wooden chopstick making or professional glassblowing at The Art Studio 8. Follow this with a visit to either the Rokuzan Art Museum or the Chihiro Art Museum, based on your preference. Designed for discerning travelers, this private experience ensures a deep, mindful connection to local craftsmanship and the timeless beauty of Nagano’s alpine region.

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 silent winter world of Nagano on a private half-day snowshoe trek. Cross vast snowfields, a hidden Snow lake, and panoramic mountain views. No car needed, beginners feel instantly at home. - Free transport from Iiyama station and gear, easy join without rental car! - Private guide adjusts pace and route, making every guest feel valued! - Explore snow-laden pines and a buried lake freely, wild Madarao awaits! So join!

Experience two authentic Japanese traditions in one unforgettable activity: create your very own one-of-a-kind pair of chopsticks and learn how to make authentic soba noodles under the guidance of a professional soba artisan. Afterward, enjoy your freshly made soba using the chopsticks you crafted yourself—making the experience even more special. We are committed to supporting local production and consumption, with a focus on ingredients and materials sourced from Nagano Prefecture, especially Komoro City.

Join us on a journey unlike any other with our exclusive private tour of Azumino (Matsumoto), led by an experienced local guide deeply knowledgeable in the area's culture and history. We will delve into Azumino's rich religious heritage. From ancient shrines to sacred temples, each site holds secrets waiting to be discovered. This tour will also allow you to enjoy the picturesque view of Azumino with lush forests to mountainscapes. We will take you to the different locations by car, allowing you to visit places that would take a long time to reach on foot, and customize the tour to meet your areas of interest. The tour is accompanied by an interpreter.