Top Nagano Prefecture Rail Tours

Walk in the footsteps of Japan’s most celebrated artist, Hokusai Katsushika, on this engaging one-day tour in the quaint, historic town of Obuse. Starting from Nagano Station, you will visit Hokusai’s original studio in Obuse, view his original work at the Obuse Hokusai-kan Museum and finally, view his last and largest remaining ‘in-situ’ artwork – the giant phoenix of Gansho-in Temple. Including plenty of time to explore Obuse for yourself, this tour is designed to introduce you to or further your understanding of Japan’s greatest artist in the very place he walked, worked and produced his final masterpiece.

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 Matsumoto at your own pace and to your own interests on this full-day private guided tour from Nagano. Visit Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's best-preserved castles, then explore surrounding streets, including quirky "Frog Street," known for its abundance of frog products. Afterward, visit tranquil Hotaka Town, home to Japan’s largest wasabi farm where you can try wasabi ice-cream and visit nearby Hotaka Shrine.

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.

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.

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!

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Kanazawa on a seamless day trip from Nagano using Japan's world-famous Hokuriku Shinkansen and local public transportation. Rather than traveling by private vehicle, this experience lets you explore the city as locals do while enjoying efficient and convenient transport. Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's Three Great Gardens, stroll through the historic Nagamachi Samurai District, and experience the timeless atmosphere of Higashi Chaya District. Along the way, enjoy an authentic sukiyaki lunch and gain deeper insights into Kanazawa's history, traditions, and craftsmanship from your local guide. With hotel pickup in Nagano and carefully planned connections, this tour offers a comfortable and immersive way to experience one of Japan's most historic cities in just one day.

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".

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.

Rather than simply visiting attractions, this cultural journey reveals how faith, commerce, scholarship, and art became interconnected in northern Nagano. The tour also explores the relationship between Hokusai and Takai Kozan, the patron who welcomed artists and intellectuals to Obuse during the late Edo period. Visits to the Hokusai Museum, Takai Kozan Memorial Museum, and Ganshoin Temple provide insight into the cultural environment that inspired some of Hokusai’s most remarkable late-life works. Ideal for travelers interested in Japanese history, religion, art, and local culture, this experience offers a meaningful journey through the traditions that shaped northern Nagano. This tour is a tour by public transportation. If you prefer to use a car, please choose car option.