Where to Stay in Nagano, Japan: 3 Best Areas & Hotels

Headed to Nagano and feeling stuck on where to stay? We’ve got you covered!

From soaking in snow-covered Onsen in Yamanouchi to strolling incense-scented temple streets in the heart of the city, our time in Japan has allowed us to explore Nagano from top to bottom. Each visit has helped us discover the best places to stay—whether you’re here for the snow monkeys, sacred sites, or steaming bowls of soba, there’s a spot that fits your vibe.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the three best areas to stay in Nagano, along with our favorite hotels, from modern city suites to cozy mountain ryokan. Let’s dive in and find the perfect spot for your trip!

Where To Stay in Nagano Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Nagano

One of the best things about visiting Nagano is how easy it is to get around. The city is well-connected by trains and buses, and you can even reach the famous Snow Monkey Park via public transport. If you’re staying near Nagano Station or in the historic center, you’ll be within easy reach of top sights like Zenko-ji Temple, plus countless noodle shops, cafes, and traditional stores.

Nagano offers a surprising range of accommodations, from affordable modern hotels near the station to splurge-worthy ryokan tucked into the mountains. Whether you’re here to temple-hop, ski, or soak in a steaming onsen, there’s a neighborhood that fits the trip.

Here are the best areas to stay in Nagano:

• Nagano Historic Center – Centered around the spiritual Zenko-ji Temple, this atmospheric district is full of old-world charm, incense-filled streets, and hidden soba spots. Kokusai 21 International Hotel offers spacious rooms and city views just a short stroll from the temple, with a free shuttle to Nagano Station and three restaurants onsite.

• Nagano Station Area – Nagano’s most convenient base, this lively hub is great for first-timers and day-trippers, with easy train and bus connections, plus ramen joints and izakayas galore. With compact, well-designed rooms, a rooftop onsen, and fun extras like free ramen and ice cream by the bath, it’s easy to see why Dormy Inn Nagano is such a fan favorite here.

• Yamanouchi – Nestled in the northern countryside, this mountain retreat is all about steaming onsens, scenic beauty, and seeing snow monkeys up close. Yudanaka Yasuragi is a cozy six-room ryokan near the train station with warm hospitality, private-use baths, and delicious dinners.

Where to Stay in Nagano, Japan

Nagano Historic Center

If this is your first time in Nagano, the Historic Center is hands-down the best place to base yourself! 

The whole area radiates an old-world charm that’s hard to beat—think stone-paved lanes, traditional wooden inns, and the scent of incense wafting from ancient temples. Even the shopfronts here feel frozen in time, some of them still sell the same handmade goods their families have produced for generations. 

The star attraction here is Zenko-ji Temple, a 7th-century national treasure and one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Japan. Walking through the Niomon and Sanmon gates feels like stepping back in time, and even just wandering the temple grounds can easily take up half a day.

This part of Nagano is ideal for culture lovers, history buffs, and really anyone who wants to be surrounded by the city’s spiritual heart. There’s also a surprising amount of great food tucked into the back alleys, like soba noodle shops, sweet mochi vendors, and cozy cafes serving local specialties. You’ll find a slower pace here compared to other parts of the city, and it’s a lovely place just to slow down, soak it all in, and feel connected to the real Nagano.

Pros

• Steps away from Zenko-ji Temple and other historic landmarks
• Super atmospheric with traditional buildings and peaceful vibes
• Great food, especially for soba lovers

Cons

• Not as lively at night, most places close early
• Fewer budget hotel options within walking distance
• Can get busy during temple festivals and holiday periods

Sauna Villa- $$$

Tucked just 15 minutes on foot from Zenko-ji Temple, Sauna Villa is more than just a place to sleep—it’s a full-on wellness escape. Each suite here feels like your own little retreat, complete with a private kitchen, sleek bathroom, and some even have an in-room sauna or open-air bath. 

There’s a hot tub, sun terrace, and garden too, so you can totally lean into that slow, rejuvenating pace of the historic center. It’s especially popular with couples. The peaceful location and gorgeous design make it ideal for a romantic getaway! 

Add free parking, fast WiFi, and stylish interiors, and this place ticks a lot of boxes. Suites typically range from $280 to $720 USD per night, depending on room size and features. Free cancellation is available too, which is always a nice bonus!

Check prices and availability for Sauna Villa here!

Kokusai 21 International Hotel – $$

If you’re after comfort, convenience, and a bit more space to stretch out, Kokusai 21 International Hotel is a solid choice right in the heart of the historic center. The rooms are way more spacious than your typical Japanese hotel, and some even come with city views or spa tubs! 

It’s an easy 15-minute stroll to Zenko-ji Temple, and the hotel also offers a free shuttle to and from Nagano Station, which is such a nice touch if you’re arriving with luggage. There are three restaurants on-site, including a Japanese grill with sweeping views from the 16th floor, plus Italian and Chinese options if you feel like mixing things up. 

It’s got all the essentials—friendly service, clean and comfy rooms, and a great location for sightseeing. Prices usually fall between $100 and $450 USD per night, with upgrades available for bigger suites.

This spot fills up fast—check availability and book your stay here!

Jizokan Matsuya Ryokan – $

If you’re after that classic ryokan experience without breaking the bank, Jizokan Matsuya Ryokan is an absolute gem. Located just a two-minute walk from Zenko-ji Temple, it’s one of the best-located stays in the area—perfect for early temple visits or a peaceful evening stroll under the lanterns. 

Rooms are traditional, with tatami floors, futon beds, and shoji screens, and you can choose between shared or private bathrooms depending on your budget. The family-run vibe here is super welcoming, and the Japanese-style breakfast gets rave reviews for both its quality and heartiness. 

There’s even a small public bath on-site if you want to soak after a day of exploring. Rates start around $110 USD per night, with options that include both breakfast and dinner. It’s a popular pick, so don’t wait too long to book!

Snag this budget-friendly stay near Zenko-ji here!

Related Read: Once you pick out your perfect area to stay and hotel, check out our 1 or 2 day Nagano itinerary to fill in all the activities!

Nagano Station Area

If you want to stay somewhere central, connected, and full of energy, the Nagano Station Area is where it’s at. This is the city’s main transportation hub, making it an ideal base for day trips to places like Yamanouchi (Snow Monkeys), Togakushi, or even Matsumoto. We love how easy it is to just hop on a train and be soaking in an onsen or hiking in the mountains an hour later.

The area itself is modern, convenient, and walkable, with wide boulevards lined with ramen shops, izakayas, cafes, and a few lively late-night bars tucked into side streets. 

This part of town is perfect for first-time visitors, business travelers, and anyone who wants quick access to trains and buses while still having restaurants and shops right outside their door. The station complex even has a shopping mall and several food courts, which come in very handy during cold winters or rainy days.

While it may not have the traditional charm of the historic center, it makes up for it in sheer convenience. Plus, you’re still just a 20-minute walk or quick bus ride from Zenko-ji Temple, so you’re never too far from Nagano’s cultural core.

Pros

• Super convenient for trains, buses, and day trips
• Tons of dining options and shops
• Great nightlife and evening energy

Cons

• Lacks traditional or historical ambiance
• Can be a bit noisy, especially near main roads
• Hotel prices can spike during ski season and holidays

Hotel Metropolitan Nagano – $$

You honestly can’t beat the location of Hotel Metropolitan Nagano—it’s literally connected to the JR train station, making arrivals (and early departures) as stress-free as it gets. The rooms are clean, modern, and surprisingly spacious for Japan, and there’s a wide range of options from budget-friendly singles to deluxe twins with mountain or city views.

Guests love the on-site restaurants, including sushi, teppanyaki, and even a bakery café. It’s also got thoughtful extras like a massage salon, luggage storage, and a solid breakfast buffet that’s perfect fuel for a day of sightseeing. 

You’re just 10 minutes from Zenko-ji Temple by car or a quick bus ride, but with so much nearby, you might just linger longer around the station. Rates typically range from $80 to $180 USD per night, depending on room type and season.

Check availability and book this convenient stay here!

Dormy Inn Nagano – $$

Just a one-minute walk from Nagano Station, Dormy Inn Nagano hits that sweet spot between comfort and convenience. The rooms are compact but well-designed, and the amenities go way beyond what you’d expect at this price point. There’s even a rooftop onsen with a sauna and open-air bath, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Guests love the thoughtful touches here, including free evening ramen, a relaxing manga lounge, and ice cream by the bath (yes, really). There’s also a hearty breakfast buffet that includes both Japanese and Western dishes, plus laundry facilities if you’re mid-trip and need a reset.

It’s a favorite among travelers for a reason—clean, comfy, and packed with value. Prices typically range from $100 to $220 USD per night, depending on your room choice.

Reserve your room at Dormy Inn Nagano and soak up the perks!

Chisun Grand Nagano – $

Just a five-minute walk from Nagano Station, Chisun Grand Nagano is a reliable, budget-friendly base with a little more comfort than you’d expect at this price point. The rooms are spacious and the staff consistently earn high marks for being helpful and welcoming.

There’s a Japanese-style breakfast buffet served on the 12th floor with great city views, and yes, they’ve got grilled fish, miso soup, and fluffy white rice if you’re going local. You’ll also find convenient extras like coin laundry, a cozy library lounge, and a stash of complimentary self-serve amenities in the lobby (perfect for rainy days or chilly weather).

Rooms can start as low as $50 and $80 USD per night, making this one of the most budget-friendly stays near the station!

Secure this great value stay at Chisun Grand Nagano here!

Related Read: Looking for more of a traditional stay? See the best ryokans in Nagano here, and book a room with tatami mats, an onsen, and traditional kaiseki dinner!

Yamanochi

If you’re dreaming of a mountain escape with onsens, crisp alpine air, and those famous snow monkeys, Yamanouchi is the place to be. This charming town is nestled in the northern Nagano countryside and is home to Jigokudani Monkey Park, where Japanese macaques soak in natural hot springs during the winter months—a true bucket-list experience!

But even outside of monkey season, Yamanouchi is an incredible year-round destination. It’s made up of several small onsen villages like Shibu Onsen and Yudanaka, known for their traditional ryokan, cobbled streets, and healing baths. It’s an excellent choice for couples, nature lovers, or anyone craving a slower pace and that peaceful, tucked-away feel. 

You can easily explore nearby ski resorts like Shiga Kogen in winter or enjoy hiking and autumn foliage in the warmer months. The scenery is stunning no matter the season, but there’s something especially magical about soaking in an outdoor onsen while snowflakes fall all around you.

It’s not the cheapest area to stay, but that’s part of the draw—people come here for the full mountain retreat experience, and the quality reflects that. Plus, many accommodations include dinner and breakfast, making it well worth the splurge.

Pros

• Close to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
• Peaceful atmosphere with traditional ryokan and hot springs
• Gorgeous scenery in every season

Cons

• More expensive than staying in Nagano city
• Not as convenient for sightseeing beyond the area
• Limited dining options outside of ryokan meals

Sakaeya – $$$

For a classic ryokan stay right in the heart of Shibu Onsen, Sakaeya delivers the full mountain escape. From the moment you’re welcomed with green tea and sweets, you’ll feel the care that goes into every detail here. Rooms are traditional with tatami flooring and futon beds, and while bathrooms are shared, the serene indoor and outdoor onsen more than make up for it.

Guests rave about the attentive staff, peaceful atmosphere, and exceptional kaiseki dinners made with seasonal ingredients. Meals are served in your room or a private dining space, creating an intimate, unhurried experience.

Sakaeya is a 5-minute drive from Yudanaka Station and just 10 minutes from the Snow Monkey Park, making it both scenic and convenient. Prices range from $350–$1,000+ USD per night, often including breakfast and dinner.

Book your stay at Sakaeya here for an authentic hot spring retreat!

Yorozuya – $$$

If you’re after a luxurious ryokan experience with deep roots in the region, Yorozuya is a standout. This historic property blends classic Japanese hospitality with stunning architecture, including a jaw-dropping wooden bathhouse that’s registered as a national cultural asset. The open-air onsen is unforgettable, especially under the stars, and the service is as refined as the setting.

Rooms feature tatami floors, futon beds, and modern comforts like ensuite bathrooms and sitting areas. Meals are a highlight here, with beautifully presented kaiseki dinners and Japanese breakfasts made from seasonal, local ingredients.

Located just a short walk from Yudanaka Station and a quick drive to the Snow Monkey Park, it’s a polished and peaceful base for exploring the region. Rooms typically go for around $350 to $1,000+ USD per night, including breakfast and dinner.

Reserve your spot at this unforgettable onsen ryokan here!

Yudanaka Yasuragi – $$

We absolutely loved our stay at Yudanaka Yasuragi! This six-room inn has such a peaceful, homey vibe, and it’s just a short walk from Yudanaka Station and a quick drive to the Snow Monkey Park. The rooms are traditional and cozy, and we especially appreciated the private-use onsen baths after a chilly day out. 

The meals were a standout—each one beautifully prepared and served with so much care. The breakfast was fantastic, and dinner was a full-on feast with local specialties that left us stuffed and smiling. There’s even a convenience store just steps away for anything you might need.

The staff were incredibly kind and offered a free shuttle to nearby spots. For the price—typically $100–$250 USD per night—it was one of the best-value ryokan stays we’ve had in Japan.

Book a stay at Yasuragi and experience the warmth for yourself!

Shiga Kogen Lodge – $$

If you want to stay as close as possible to the Snow Monkey Park, Shiga Kogen Lodge is your best bet. Set deep in the mountains of Yamanouchi, this cozy, family-run inn offers ski-to-door access in winter and is just a short drive from Jigokudani Monkey Park, making it a prime location for both snow sports and macaque spotting.

Rooms are traditional and simple, with tatami floors and futon bedding, and guests love the peaceful setting and warm hospitality. There’s a public onsen bath on-site, a relaxing lounge with a fireplace, and hearty breakfasts and dinners included in most stays. 

The staff go above and beyond, and many guests highlight their kindness and the delicious home-style meals. Rates usually range from $200–$400 USD per night for rooms with half board, offering excellent value in one of the region’s most scenic and convenient spots.

Stay near Japan’s famous monkeys and book Shiga Kogen Lodge here!

Related Read: Planning to visit the famous snow monkeys? Check out our full guide on the best snow monkey tours from Tokyo here to find the perfect experience.

Top Activities to do in Nagano, Japan

Now that you’ve found the perfect area and hotel to stay in, you can start planning your Nagano itinerary! Whether you’re here for the monkeys, the history, or the small-town charm, you’ll be happy to find a lot of unique activities in Nagano. Here are a few of our favorites to add to your bucket list!

• See the snow monkeys – This top-rated tour makes visiting the Snow Monkey Park easy if you don’t have a rental car. We also go to see the famous Zenko-ji Temple, enjoy a sake tasting, and learn all about it from our guide.

• Go on a food tour – Discover Nagano’s top izakayas on this food tour! Our local guide took us to the best izakayas in the city and ensured we tried Nagano’s famous dishes. We were stuffed by the end!

• Visit a wasabi farm – Nagano is famous for wasabi, so learn how it’s made on this farm tour! From farm to table, we saw the entire process and got to taste some authentic Japanese wasabi. Be warned – it burns!

• See the snow walls of Tateyama-Kurobe – If you’re visiting during the spring, this full-day tour is a must! You’ll see the impressive snow walls on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and the stunning Kurobe Dam. It’s a unique experience, to say the least!

Related Read: If you are looking for more fun activities, check out the top things to do in Nagano here to fill in your itinerary!

Renting a Car in Japan

Japan’s trains are great, but if you want to explore rural areas, scenic routes, or off-the-beaten path hidden gems, renting a car offers unmatched flexibility. Driving in Japan is generally safe, with well-maintained roads and clear signage, though there are some unique rules and customs to be aware of.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare multiple provider prices, check company ratings, filter for the type of vehicle you want, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Japan

• Drive on the left: In Japan, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. The driver’s seat is on the right, and you’ll need to adjust to roundabouts and different road layouts. Take some time to get comfortable before hitting busy roads.
• Know the local rules: You must come to a full stop at “止まれ” (stop) signs, and pedestrians always have the right of way. It’s also mandatory for all passengers to wear seatbelts, even in the back seat. It’s also a good idea to brush up on the Japanese road signs before you go. They are mainly symbol based, and being able to recognize them will make your journey a lot smoother!
• Insurance is essential: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance—especially in Japan, where tight city parking, narrow village streets, and even wildlife on roads (like deer in Hokkaido) can lead to unexpected dings or damage. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable) to add this peace of mind when you book.
• Choose the right car: Roads and parking spots in Japan can be tight, especially in cities and older towns, so a small or mid-sized car is usually best. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by transmission, fuel type (like hybrid), luggage space, and more, so you can find exactly what works for your trip.
• Watch for toll roads: Japan has an extensive network of toll roads (expressways). Tolls can be paid by cash or card, but it’s worth checking if your rental car comes with an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card for convenience.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention. This is a must—it’s the only version Japan recognizes, and you’ll need to get it before arriving.
• A credit card in the driver’s name for the deposit.
• Most companies require you to be at least 18 years old, and some may require you to have held a license for at least one year. Drivers under 25 may face additional fees.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Japan on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

We hope that this guide was helpful as you plan your trip to Nagano! Whether you want to be close to the monkey park, central to the city sights, or somewhere in between, these hotel options will make for a comfortable and restful stay. Be sure to book your hotel in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak season – they fill up quickly!

If you need help planning more of your travels, check out our other Japan blogs! We have more guides on top things to do, city itineraries, and where to stay to help you plan a memorable Japan trip. Here are a few related blogs to get you started – cheers!

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