Top Nagano Prefecture How to Get Around

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.

We’ll begin with a visit to the famous Snow Monkey Park, where you can watch wild Japanese macaques enjoying a soak in the hot springs—set in the peaceful mountains of Nagano. After the walk, we’ll head over to the nearby Shibu Onsen area, a beautiful historic hot spring town. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant here, featuring freshly made soba noodles and other regional specialties. After lunch, you’ll have time to unwind in one of Shibu Onsen’s public baths. The mineral-rich waters are said to have healing properties and offer the perfect way to relax. And for a bit of extra fun, there’s the chance to collect stamps from different hot springs using a special towel—a local tradition that adds a playful touch to your visit. Whether you're here to relax, explore, or enjoy good food and drink, this tour offers a great mix of what makes Nagano special. Optional free pick-up support available upon request. Please read the pick-up details before making your reservation.

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.

Swap Nagono 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.

Begin in Kamikochi amid alpine peaks, crystal-clear rivers, and quiet forest trails. Depart from Matsumoto (8:00 or 9:45 AM) or Nagano (8:45 AM), and arrive before the busiest hours—when the scenery feels calm and serene. Skip the bus lines with a direct ride to Kamikochi’s central parking. Enjoy a scenic walk from the Kappa Bridge area toward Taisho Pond, with time for photos, viewpoints, and a flexible lunch break. Later, visit Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s oldest original wooden castles. With pre-arranged admission, you can skip the ticket line and explore at your own pace while your guide shares helpful stories and context. For Nagano departures, the tour normally returns to Nagano, with an optional end in the Matsumoto Castle area. Designed as a premium small-group experience, this day blends mountain beauty with cultural depth. Autumn peak season: Matsumoto 8:00 AM departure only due to congestion in Kamikochi.

A full-day trip to Nagano’s snow monkeys and Togakushi Shrine. With a private car and guide, avoid crowds and enjoy local insights. Photos are captured and delivered after the tour. ❑ A Special Experience Visit Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, where in winter monkeys soak in hot springs and in summer play in forests and rivers. Then continue to Togakushi, a spiritual retreat with cedar-lined paths and centuries-old shrines. You’ll avoid crowds, discover local spots, and have moments photographed as lasting gifts. ❑ Why Private? Public transport requires hours and many transfers, while dining options are limited. With a private car and guide, travel is smooth and flexible. The day adapts to your pace, from exploring shrine trails to enjoying a relaxed lunch. ❑ A Personalized Journey Explore with an English-speaking guide, free from crowds or fixed schedules. Local insights enrich the journey, and each special moment is captured for you to keep.

Picchio's nature watching tour takes advantage of the abundant nature surrounding Karuizawa, immersing guests in a tranquil forest environment to enjoy nature as it is. There is the opportunity to see wildlife including Japanese squirrels, montane brown frogs, and many bird species. Our expert guides share their knowledge and passion, hoping to inspire people to love and engage with Japanese nature. *Guided in Japanese and basic English (English ability varies by guide). ■ Important Notes ・Rain: Held in rain (bring rainwear). Cancelled only in severe weather. ・Trail: Approx. 2km unpaved. No strollers or wheelchairs. ・Infants (0-3): Free, but please bring a baby carrier as they may get tired. ・Bring: Water bottle (refills available at reception) & bug spray/long clothes in summer. ・Parking: Use Hoshino Area P1 (next to Sonmin Shokudo, 5-min walk). Extra parking in peak seasons. ・Cancellation: 100% fee applies for no-shows or if you arrive too late to join.

Journey across the “Roof of Japan” with a private car and guide, where each moment is captured as a photo gift. ❑ Seasonal Highlights The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route combines electric buses, ropeways, and trolley buses to reach the 2,450m Murodo Plateau. Each season offers a highlight: 20m snow walls in April–June, cool alpine breezes in July–August, and brilliant foliage in September–October. Closed in winter, each visit is rare. ❑ Why Private? The route has many transfers and can be complex, but your English-speaking guide manages tickets, timing, and connections. With private car access to the entrance, your trip is smooth so you can focus on the scenery. ❑ A Personalized Journey Because it’s private, the pace and stops follow your interests. Linger in the Snow Corridor, relax in a café, or take a short hike—your plan adapts flexibly. We avoid crowds and share moments locals know. Treating Japan as a studio, we capture your journey and deliver photos afterward as keepsakes.

Nagano has so much to offer that limiting your sightseeing to one day can feel stressful. This intimate, small-group tour eliminates the hassle of planning your own itinerary and arranging transportation. Visit the Snow Monkey Park to see wild macaques relaxing in natural hot springs; stop in the charming town of Obuse for a local lunch and sake tasting at a historic brewery; and enjoy an optional visit to Zenkoji Temple (only available for earliest departure times).

Experience the dramatic mountain landscape of Chubu Sangaku National Park, also known as the "Roof of Japan," and visit the immense snow walls of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. Only accessible in the spring and early summer, this day trip departs from Nagano Station and includes a ticket for round-trip bus transport with your guide.

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

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.

Meet in Karuizawa as early as 10:00 a.m. and enjoy a relaxed, flexible journey to Kusatsu with a dedicated private guide until up to 5:00 p.m. Travel comfortably by private vehicle, avoiding crowded buses and trains, with a hotel-to-hotel transfer from Karuizawa to Kusatsu. During the tour, your luggage can be stored in the vehicle, allowing you to travel hands-free. You may stop at selected highlights such as Harunire Terrace, Onioshidashi Park, Shiraito Falls, and Asama Farm according to your preferences, with free stops at scenic photo spots. If you wish to visit locations not listed, please consult with us in advance. The itinerary can be adjusted within the available time and route. This tour is ideal for travelers who value flexibility, local insight, and a personalized experience while enjoying the nature and attractions of the Karuizawa–Kusatsu area. Arrival times may vary depending on the places visited.

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.

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.

Home to more than eighty ski resorts such as Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, Hakuba, and many more, as well as featuring some of the country’s best powder and terrain – all within easy access of Tokyo and its airports – we consider Nagano to be Japan’s best ski destination. Perfect as a day trip from Tokyo, or just to enhance an already amazing Japan vacation, we’re here to offer a stress free all-inclusive day ski package featuring everything you need to enjoy your day. From transport to the ski resort, rental equipment (including skis or snowboard, poles and boots and bindings, top and bottom wear, gloves, and goggles), lift passes, and even optional lessons, this package is perfect for those who wish to try skiing or snowboarding for the first time or those experienced who want to challenge Japan’s slopes themselves without the hassle of carrying all of their equipment!

Matsumoto Castle is one of the most famous sights in Matsumoto, and this experience allows you to explore with a guide and a small group for a more personalized experience. Enjoy a relaxed walking tour of its interior, then explore the grounds of this impressive castle, which is ranked as one of Japan's most beautiful. Then head to a local sake shop, where you can learn about the Japanese drink and enjoy a light snack.

Have an unforgettable journey from central Tokyo to Yokohama, where you'll visit the car meet-up and hear firsthand experiences and unique stories. Your adventure begins in the heart of Tokyo. We'll hit the legendary Wangan for a scenic C1 loop, with brief stops at street racing hotspots. Then, we'll cruise along the Bayshore Route, passing through the iconic Rainbow Bridge on your way to Yokohama to witness amazing cars and meet their passionate owners. Your night will span approximately 3 hours where you'll feel like you are hanging out with a local friend. The best part? We'll provide a drop-off back to central Tokyo! Experience genuine car culture as we show you an authentic night out with a local, focusing on delivering a COMPLETE experience, not just a glimpse of cars at Daikoku.

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.

Matsumoto Castle stands as a testament to Japan’s architectural brilliance, with its iconic black façade and rich history. This guided tour explores the castle’s design, defensive strategies, and stories woven into its walls. Visitors will walk through the Honmaru area, learn about craftsmanship and local legends, and enjoy impressive views from the main keep. Those who select the optional Former Kaichi School visit can continue to one of Matsumoto’s key Meiji-era landmarks, contrasting the samurai age with Japan’s early modern education. Perfect for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike, this tour offers a unique lens into Matsumoto’s past. Explore Matsumoto Castle’s architecture and history Learn about local legends, defenses, and engineering Enjoy views from the top of the main keep Add the optional Former Kaichi School visit for Meiji-era architecture and education Ideal for history and architecture enthusiasts

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.

Nagano is best known for its ski slopes, but this full-day tour from Nozawa Onsen covers its cultural experiences that are just as worthwhile. Your day starts at Jigokudani Monkey Park to watch Japanese macaques bathing in natural hot springs, then moves to Zenkoji—one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan—after a warming local lunch. Finish on a high with a guided sake tasting at a local brewery.

Unlock the Secrets of Kamakura: Zen & Spirit Discover the ancient capital beyond the guidebooks. While standard tours focus only on architecture, I invite you to connect with the "invisible presence" and sacred energy of this land. I will share the deep myths, history, and spiritual significance behind the Great Buddha and Bamboo Grove, tailored to your interests. Why Choose This Tour? • Proven Expertise: I am a professional guide with over 80 successful tours and 5-star ratings across major platforms. You can book with confidence. • Spiritual Insight & Stamina: As a pilgrim who walked the 1,000km Camino de Santiago in 2019, I bring a unique spiritual perspective and plenty of energy to support your full-day journey. • Total Flexibility: Custom itinerary + Tokyo hotel pickup included. Join me to feel the true atmosphere of Japan!