Discover the Natural Wonders of Nagano
Nagano, nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, is a region where majestic mountains, tranquil countryside, and rich cultural traditions come together in perfect harmony. Known for its world-class ski resorts, historic temples, and rejuvenating hot springs, Nagano offers travelers an ideal escape into nature and heritage.
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Nagano at a Glance
- Population: Approx. 2.0 million
- Area: 13,561 km²
- Number of Municipalities: 77
Must-Visit Attractions
- Zenko-ji Temple（善光寺） – One of Japan’s oldest and most important temples, attracting pilgrims for over 1,400 years.
- Matsumoto Castle（松本城） – A stunning black castle known as the “Crow Castle,” and one of Japan’s few original wooden castles.
- Snow Monkey Park（地獄谷野猿公苑） – See wild monkeys soak in hot springs during the winter in this unique natural park.
- Togakushi Shrine（戸隠神社） – A sacred site deep in the forest with a mystical cedar-lined path.
- Karuizawa（軽井沢） – A chic mountain resort town loved for its shopping streets, cycling trails, and cool summer climate.
Nagano’s Culinary Delights
Nagano’s cuisine is simple, hearty, and deeply rooted in its natural surroundings. Here are some regional favorites:
- Shinshu Soba（信州そば） – Buckwheat noodles known for their aroma and texture, often served cold with dipping sauce.
- Oyaki（おやき） – Steamed or grilled dumplings filled with vegetables, miso, or sweet bean paste.
- Nozawana-zuke（野沢菜漬け） – Pickled leaf vegetables, a staple in Nagano households.
- Gohei-mochi（五平餅） – Grilled rice cakes coated with a savory miso-based sauce.
Traditional Crafts & Shopping
- Obuse Town（小布施） – A charming town known for chestnut sweets, art museums, and Edo-era architecture.
- Kiso Lacquerware（木曽漆器） – High-quality lacquerware from the Kiso Valley with centuries of craftsmanship.
- Nagano Apples（長野りんご） – Juicy and sweet, Nagano apples are a must-try and make great souvenirs.
Getting Around Nagano
Nagano is accessible via bullet train and has efficient regional transport for exploring rural areas.
・Hokuriku Shinkansen（北陸新幹線） – Connects Tokyo to Nagano in about 1.5 hours.
・Express Buses（高速バス） – Useful for accessing ski resorts and hot spring towns.
・Rental Cars（レンタカー） – Ideal for exploring remote mountain areas and scenic routes.
Experience Nagano’s Serenity and Spirit
Nagano is a land where spiritual depth meets breathtaking scenery. From the snow-covered peaks of the Japanese Alps to tranquil hot springs and sacred temples, it offers a peaceful escape rooted in tradition and nature.
Whether you’re savoring a bowl of Shinshu soba, watching snow monkeys bathe in steaming waters, or walking a forest path lined with ancient trees, each experience in Nagano invites you to slow down and reconnect with yourself.Let Nagano’s serene landscapes and enduring traditions offer you a refreshing journey through the soul of Japan.
Have you confirmed your hotel reservation?
There has been an increase in booking errors.
Be sure to double-check your reservation before your trip.
We also offer assistance in case of any issues during your stay.