15 Best Things to Do in Nagano (Alps, Snow Monkeys & More)
Alpine peaks and hot springs, castles and post towns—Nagano blends timeless history with natural drama.
This guide features 5 sights, 5 local foods, and 5 hands-on experiences. Each card includes Highlights, From Kyoto (rough route & time), local Access, and a handy Pro tip.
🏔 Japanese Alps
🐒 Snow Monkeys
🛀 Mountain Onsen
From Kyoto Station → Nagano Gateways (rough times)
| Gateway | Typical Route | Time* | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nagano | Tokaido Shinkansen → Tokyo → Hokuriku Shinkansen → Nagano | ~3h05–3h30 | Base for Zenkoji, Togakushi, Snow Monkeys |
| Matsumoto | Shinkansen → Nagoya (~35m) → Ltd. Exp. Shinano → Matsumoto | ~2h30–2h50 | Base for Castle, Kamikochi access |
| Iiyama | Shinkansen → Tokyo → Hokuriku Shinkansen → Iiyama | ~3h20–3h45 | Closest for Nozawa Onsen |
| Hakuba | Shinkansen → Nagano → bus to Hakuba | ~3h45–4h15 | Ski hub (winter), hiking (summer) |
| Karuizawa | Shinkansen → Tokyo → Hokuriku Shinkansen → Karuizawa | ~3h00–3h20 | Resort town, outlet mall, cycling |
*Times are approximate and vary by train type/connection. Always check the latest timetable.
1) Matsumoto Castle
Highlights. Night illumination, swan-dotted moat, samurai exhibits.
From Kyoto. Shinkansen → Nagoya (~35 min) → Ltd. Exp. Shinano to Matsumoto (~2h).
Access (local). 15-min walk or short town bus from Matsumoto Station.
Pro tip. Spring blossoms and autumn foliage give mirror-like reflections on calm days; arrive near opening to avoid queues for the steep stairs.
2) Kamikochi (Northern Alps)
Highlights. Kappa Bridge, Myojin Pond, riverside boardwalks, seasonal hiking.
From Kyoto. Shinkansen → Nagoya → Ltd. Exp. to Matsumoto (~2.5h) → bus to Kamikochi (~1.5h).
Access (local). Private cars are banned; shuttle bus/taxi from Sawando/Hirayu. Most paths are flat; alpine routes require gear.
Pro tip. Season is typically late Apr–mid/late Nov; mornings have clearest views. Bring layers even in summer.
3) Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
Highlights. Monkey watching, snowy forest stroll, nearby Shibu/Yudanaka onsen towns.
From Kyoto. Tokaido Shinkansen → Tokyo → Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano (~3h) → Nagano Dentetsu to Yudanaka (~45 min) → bus/walk (~15–30 min).
Access (local). About a 30–40 min forest trail from bus stop to the monkey area; winter path can be icy.
Pro tip. Most reliable soaking is Dec–Mar; weekdays are quieter. Wear waterproof boots and carry traction in deep winter.
4) Togakushi Shrines & Ninja Village
Highlights. Giant cedar avenue to Okusha, soba pilgrim culture, ninja trick house for kids.
From Kyoto. Shinkansen → Nagano (~3h) → bus to Togakushi (~60 min).
Access (local). Shrines are spread; walking shoes needed. Winter requires snow-safe gear.
Pro tip. Arrive before lunch—popular soba shops close early. Peak foliage late Oct–early Nov.
5) Narai-juku (Nakasendō Post Town)
Highlights. Kiso lacquerware, atmospheric streets, Kiso-no-Ohashi bridge.
From Kyoto. Shinkansen → Nagoya (~35 min) → Ltd. Exp. Shinano to Narai (~2h).
Access (local). Narai Station opens right into the preserved district; easy on foot.
Pro tip. Stay in a minshuku to enjoy lantern-lit streets post day-trippers. Many shops close by 17:00.
6) Shinshu Soba
Highlights. Togakushi soba, oroshi soba, seasonal wild vegetables.
From Kyoto. Via Nagano or Matsumoto depending on your base.
Access (local). Renowned soba shops around Togakushi, Nagano City, Matsumoto.
Pro tip. Prime time sells out early; arrive for early lunch. Try a three-variety tasting.
7) Oyaki Dumplings
Highlights. Street-side shops, hearth-grilled versions, savory/sweet lineup.
From Kyoto. Base in Nagano or Matsumoto for food-hopping.
Access (local). Oyaki specialty stores across Nagano Prefecture; try station-front shops.
Pro tip. Get a mixed box for the train; reheats well at your ryokan.
8) Nozawana Pickles
Highlights. Classic brined style, stir-fried nozawana, onigiri fillings.
From Kyoto. Shinkansen route to Iiyama or Nagano → bus/train to Nozawa Onsen.
Access (local). Found in markets, michi-no-eki, and Nozawa Onsen shops.
Pro tip. Refrigerate promptly; vacuum packs travel best.
9) Basashi (Horse Sashimi)
Highlights. Lean cuts, marbled “toro” basashi, paired with sake.
From Kyoto. Base yourself in Ueda, Nagano, or Matsumoto depending on restaurants.
Access (local). Look for regional izakaya menus and traditional eateries.
Pro tip. Ask staff about sourcing and recommended cuts; availability varies by season and venue.
10) Local Sake (Nagano Breweries)
Highlights. Brewery tastings, junmai/daiginjo flights, sake & soba pairings.
From Kyoto. Reach Nagano, Matsumoto, or Ueda as tasting bases.
Access (local). Breweries often require reservations; some offer English tours.
Pro tip. Bring cash for small tastings; consider shipping bottles home from shops.
11) Skiing & Snowboarding (Hakuba/Nozawa/Shiga Kogen)
Highlights. Hakuba Valley multi-resort pass, Olympic heritage, long groomers, tree runs.
From Kyoto. Shinkansen → Nagano (~3h) → bus to Hakuba (~1h), Nozawa (~1h), or Shiga Kogen (~1.5h).
Access (local). Resort shuttles link base areas; chains/4WD required for winter driving.
Pro tip. Peak season Jan–Feb; book lessons/rentals early. Spring skiing Mar–Apr offers softer snow and sun.
12) Onsen Rotenburo (Yudanaka/Shibu/Nozawa)
Highlights. Historic bath districts, day-use facilities, ryokan stays with kaiseki.
From Kyoto. Shinkansen → Nagano → Nagano Dentetsu to Yudanaka or buses to Nozawa/Shiga areas.
Access (local). Many day-use baths allow towel rental; some require small cash coins.
Pro tip. Tattoo policies vary—cover small tattoos or call ahead. Hydrate well at altitude.
13) Togakushi Soba-making Class
Highlights. Hands-on kneading/rolling, dipping sauces, local tempura pairings.
From Kyoto. Shinkansen → Nagano → bus to Togakushi; some studios in Nagano City.
Access (local). Most classes require reservations; English support varies.
Pro tip. Morning slots are quieter; combine with shrine walk and soba lunch.
14) Zenkoji Temple Morning Oasaji
Highlights. Oasaji blessing, main hall, underground passage (okaidan-meguri).
From Kyoto. Shinkansen via Tokyo to Nagano (~3h) → city bus/walk to Zenkoji (~15–20 min).
Access (local). Temple street has cafés and shops; winter mornings are very cold—bundle up.
Pro tip. Check the day’s sunrise time; arrive ~20–30 min early for a front spot. Be respectful: no flash during ceremonies.
15) Cycling in Azumino (Daio Wasabi Farm)
Highlights. Wasabi fields, canal bridges, Alps views, craft cafés.
From Kyoto. Shinkansen → Nagoya → Ltd. Exp. to Matsumoto (~2.5h) → JR Oito Line to Hotaka (~30 min) → rental cycle.
Access (local). Bike rentals near Hotaka Station; dedicated cycling routes to Daio Wasabi Farm.
Pro tip. Go early for calm canals and fewer crowds; bring sun protection and cash for farm snacks.
Related Guides
FAQ
When is the best season for Nagano?
Alps hiking (late Apr–Nov), green season (Jun–Sep), foliage (Oct–early Nov), snow sports (Dec–Mar/Apr). Shoulder seasons mean fewer crowds.
Is Kamikochi open all year?
No. It’s typically open from late April to around mid/late November. In winter the buses stop and access roads close.
Can I drive to Kamikochi?
Private cars are not allowed in Kamikochi. Park at Sawando/Hirayu and take shuttle buses or taxis.
When can I see the snow monkeys in the hot spring?
Most reliably in cold months (Dec–Mar). They’re wild—soaking isn’t guaranteed in warm weather. Wear boots for the forest trail.
Are the alpine trails beginner-friendly?
Kamikochi’s riverside boardwalks are easy; summit routes require proper gear and fitness. Always check weather and daylight hours.
Do I need reservations for soba-making or Zenkoji activities?
Often yes—especially weekends/holidays. Many venues have limited English slots; book ahead.
Are onsens tattoo-friendly?
Policies vary. Many day-use baths accept small tattoos if covered; call ahead for ryokan rules.
Is Nagano good for families with kids?
Yes. Snow Monkey Park, ninja village, ski areas with kids’ slopes, fruit-picking, and easy cycling make it family-friendly.
Can I do a Nagano day trip from Kyoto?
Possible but long (~3h each way). Best to stay overnight in Matsumoto, Nagano City, or resort towns.
What local souvenirs are popular?
Shinshu soba and flour, Nozawana pickles, miso, sake, Kiso lacquerware, wooden crafts, apple sweets.
Do I need cash?
Cards are widely accepted in cities/resorts, but buses, small eateries, shrines, and rural shops may be cash-only. Carry small coins.
How cold is winter? What should I wear?
Daytime often 0–5°C in towns; much colder in mountains. Wear insulated layers, waterproof boots, gloves, and traction if hiking snowy paths.