Top Nagano Tours by Duration

Foodies who love to learn about local culture through cuisine will enjoy this small-group evening tour of Nagano’s local bars and eateries. Throughout the evening you’ll visit several izakaya and backstreet bars, eating enough samples to comprise a full meal. Your guide will take you to places you’d struggle to find by yourself, and will make sure you have a good time and don’t get lost.

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).

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.

Begin with a scenic drive through beautiful orchards. Reach the park via a refreshing 30-minute (2km) walk along lush nature trails—a pleasant hike especially enjoyable in the green season. From May, you may spot adorable newborn baby monkeys! Enjoy 50 minutes observing the macaques relaxing in their natural habitat. Your guide provides all essential info during the drive; there is no guided service during the walk or inside the park. As these are wild animals, sightings are not guaranteed, particularly during the mating and harvest seasons in October and November. Next, visit the historic Tamamura Honten brewery (closed Sundays/holidays). Then, explore 1,350-year-old Shibu Onsen with your guide—keep an eye on the rooftops for local monkeys! Finally, visit Koku-gonji Temple (est. 825 AD), home to sacred spring water and 1,000 cherry trees. Returns to Iiyama around 5:40 PM and to Nozawa Onsen around 6 PM, subject to traffic.

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.

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.

Explore the beauty of Nagano on this full-day tour featuring Zenko-ji Temple, Jigokudani Monkey Park, and Matsushiro Castle, along with a sake tasting experience. Start your day at Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most significant Buddhist sites, and immerse yourself in its rich history and serene atmosphere. Next, head to Jigokudani Monkey Park and stroll along a scenic forest trail to watch wild snow monkeys relaxing in the natural hot springs. After enjoying lunch at your own expense, join a guided sake tasting at a local brewery. Conclude your journey at Matsushiro Castle, a historic samurai fortress of the Sanada clan, where you can explore its stone walls, gates, and tranquil grounds. Full-day tour featuring Zenko-ji Temple, Jigokudani Monkey Park, Matsushiro Castle, and a guided sake tasting Scenic forest walk to observe wild snow monkeys in their natural hot springs Cultural insights from an experienced local guide

Enjoy a guided hike to the breathtaking Happo-ike pond in Hakuba, accessible from a series of gondolas and chair lifts. Then, visit beautiful Reisho-ji temple and the nearby onsen town of Omachi-Onsenkyo. Nestled among the Northern Japan Alps in Nagano, Hakuba Valley is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and clear blue lakes, and is known for skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer. The high altitude of the mountain ridges in Hakuba makes for some of the best hiking and trekking in all of Japan, with trails that can be accessed from chair lifts and gondolas that run year-round. Starting from Nagano Station, this tour will take guests up to one of the most iconic and breathtaking spots in Hakuba, Happo-ike pond, to see its mirror-like surface reflecting the nearby peaks. Afterwards, guests will visit a historic temple in the area, and have time in a traditional hot spring town, where they can enter a full hot spring, or an outdoor "ashi-yu" footbath.

1. "Edo Soul" and "Alpine Freedom" Experience the ultimate contrast: the historic, dark-wood streets of Narai-juku and the breathtaking 360° views of the 2,000m Utsukushigahara plateau. Explore Japan’s authentic history and wild nature in one seamless day. 2. Authentic Local Immersion and Private Access Go beyond the guidebook. Meet local artisans and taste regional flavors while we handle the logistics. Your private vehicle connects these remote "hidden gems" that are nearly impossible to reach by public transport. 3. Hands-Free Travel and Memory Gift Enjoy the journey completely unburdened. Leave your luggage in the car and put your phone away—your guide will snap photos of your group throughout the day, providing the data as a free gift so you can stay fully present.

This tour connects two sides of Shimosuwa that are rarely experienced together: the ancient faith of Suwa Taisha and the history of a town that once welcomed travelers on Japan’s old highways. You will visit two important Suwa Taisha shrines, learn about shrine customs and local rituals, and walk to the mysterious Manji Stone Buddha, one of the area’s most memorable spiritual landmarks. Along the way, your guide will help you understand how faith, folk belief, travel, and daily life shaped Shimosuwa. The visit to Honjin Iwanami Residence adds another layer to the experience, showing how high-ranking travelers were received in the Edo period. Rather than simply moving from one landmark to another, this walk reveals Shimosuwa as a historic crossroads of pilgrimage, worship, and travel culture.

Witness the enchanting Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, where wild Japanese macaques roam freely and soak in hot springs during winter months. Enjoy a scenic forest walk amidst nature before heading to a local sake and beer brewery. Discover the rich flavors of Nagano with optional tastings that highlight the area's cultural heritage. This private tour ensures a flexible and relaxed experience with dedicated transportation, allowing you to connect with wildlife and local craftsmanship seamlessly. - Visit the iconic Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park and see wild macaques - Scenic forest walk to enhance your nature experience - Enjoy optional tastings at a traditional sake and beer brewery - Private transportation allows for a flexible and relaxed itinerary

Explore the scenic Echigo-Tsumari Art Field and the renowned Tunnel of Light at Kiyotsu Gorge on this engaging one-day tour. Begin your journey from Nagano Station or two meeting points in Nozawa Onsen, then travel to contemporary art installations like The Last Classroom and the Matsudai Nohbutai, and enjoy a locally sourced lunch at a unique restaurant. The tour culminates in the stunning Kiyotsu Gorge, where you can capture breathtaking reflections of nature. Perfect for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike, this guided tour promises a memorable day. - Visit the immersive installation “The Last Classroom” in a repurposed abandoned school. - Explore outdoor art by famous artists at Matsudai Nohbutai and enjoy locally sourced cuisine. - Discover contemporary exhibits that will make you contemplate and wonder at MonET, the Museum on Echigo-Tsumari. - Walk through the scenic Tunnel of Light at Kiyotsu Gorge's that integrates into nature for stunning photo opportunities.

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.

Discover the serene countryside of northern Nagano on this private full-day tour, blending wildlife encounters, art, and culinary experiences. Start with a visit to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park to see the famous snow monkeys bathing in hot springs. Next, wander through the historic town of Obuse, known for its Edo-period charm and the Hokusai Museum. Conclude your day at a local miso brewery, where you'll delve into Nagano's fermented food culture with a guided tasting experience. This tailored tour promises an authentic taste of Japanese culture, ideal for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike. - Private pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Nagano - Visit Jigokudani to see snow monkeys in their natural habitat - Explore the charming streets of Obuse and visit art galleries - Enjoy a tasting session at a local miso brewery, sampling various miso types

Explore Nagano’s winter highlights on a private day tour with your own English-speaking guide and private vehicle. Visit the famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park to see wild Japanese macaques in their natural mountain setting, then continue to the charming town of Obuse for a local lunch stop and free time. The tour also includes a visit to Zenkoji Temple and a relaxed guided sake tasting. This private tour is designed for comfort and ease, allowing you to enjoy the region without navigating public transportation or winter roads on your own. Ideal for families, couples, and small groups seeking a smooth private day in Nagano. * Private vehicle and English-speaking guide for a personalized experience * Visit Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, Obuse, and Zenkoji Temple * Guided sake tasting and Snow Monkey Park admission included * Local lunch stop arranged in Obuse; lunch is paid separately * Flexible 8–10 hour itinerary depending on weather, road conditions, and group pace

Experience the spiritual and cultural heart of Nagano on this private, fully guided day tour with a government-licensed guide and a private vehicle and driver. The highlight is magnificent Zenkoji, one of Japan's most important temples for over 1,400 years, where your guide leads you along the lively Nakamise approach and into the grand main hall. From there you can venture into the mountains to Togakushi Shrine, whose inner sanctuary is reached beneath an awe-inspiring avenue of giant cedars, with ties to ninja and ascetic traditions. The tour also reveals Nagano's samurai past in the Matsushiro castle town, home of the cunning Sanada clan and their treasure museum, and the artistic charm of nearby Obuse, where the great painter Hokusai left masterpieces at the Hokusai-kan and Ganshoin Temple. Because this is a private tour, the pace and itinerary flex around your interests, making it easy to enjoy the very best of Nagano comfortably in a single day.

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.

Prepare to experience Old Japan on foot with this exciting hike through traditional post towns, ancient forests, and dramatic mountain passes. Starting in Tsumago-juku post town, your guide will explain a bit about what kinds of people traveled the roads in Old Japan, where they were going, and how they lived. You will get a chance to enter some buildings including an old Inn and a horse-stable that perfectly illustrate what your guide has mentioned. Leaving Tsumago-juku post town, you will start out on an 8km trek to the next post town, passing by roaring waterfalls and quiet hamlets along the way. Keep an eye open for wildlife and wildflowers while you are led by your guide along what was once one of the main avenues of travel in Japan. Arriving at Magome-juku post town, you will be treated to far off views of fields and mountains as you descend to the bottom of this very vertical village. After having a little time for shopping, you will board the tour vehicle and head back.

Sacred Streets, Historic Zenkoji Temple and Nagano’s Hidden Corners. Discover the soul of one of Japan’s most sacred cities with our local guide Follow a path that leads you deep into the city’s past. This isn’t just a walk. It’s a cultural journey once shared by monks, pilgrims, and samurai. From the sacred grounds of Zenkoji Temple to atmospheric backstreets lined with old storehouses, a historic sake brewery, and local shops, the tour uncovers sides of Nagano that most travelers miss.

Experience one of Nagano’s most spectacular alpine landscapes without a full-scale mountain climb. This tour takes you by bus and ropeway to Senjojiki Cirque, located 2,612 meters above sea level in Japan’s Central Alps. From the ropeway and Hotel Senjojiki terrace, you can enjoy dramatic views of steep mountain ridges, deep valleys, and seasonal alpine scenery. With your guide, you will walk along the scenic trail around the cirque, learn how this unique bowl-shaped landscape was formed, and discover the plants, wildlife, and mountain views that make this area so special. It is an ideal experience for travelers who want to enjoy the beauty of Japan’s high mountains in an accessible, guided way.

Discover Nagano’s many highlights on this private 2-day tour. You’ll have a guide to show you around on the first day, and then free time to explore on the second day. Overnight stay in a Japanese Ryokan, entrance fees to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, Zenko-ji Temple, and a private onsen experience is included, making it the ultimate hassle-free tour.

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.