6 Best Things to do in Nagano, Japan
Planning a trip to Nagano? Start here!
This mountain-filled region in the heart of Japan is packed with incredible experiences—historic temples, hidden izakaya’s, alpine hikes, and even hot spring–loving snow monkeys. But with so many amazing options, it can be tough to know which tours are truly worth your time (and money). But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!
We’ve traveled Nagano extensively, exploring everything from its peaceful temple towns to its scenic mountain trails, and handpicked the best experiences to help you plan your trip with confidence. Whether you’re visiting for the food, culture, or adventure, these are the tours that showcase the very best of Nagano. Let’s dive right in!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE activity was this guided tour to Zenko-ji Temple and the Snow Monkey Park! As Nagano’s two most iconic sights, we wanted to learn as much as possible and have a smooth experience, and this tour delivered.
Things to do in Nagano
1. Eat like a local in Nagano’s cozy izakayas
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 11:30 am, 5 pm, 6 pm, and 7 pm
- Highlights: Discover Nagano with a local guide, visit hidden izakaya and bars, enjoy five dishes and two drinks, finish with soba or ramen, and take home fun photos
- Inclusions: Two to three food stops with five dishes and two drinks, hidden bar, local English-speaking guide, small group tour
- Rating: 5 stars (check reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
There’s no better introduction to a city than through its food, and Nagano is full of local flavor waiting to be discovered. For travelers who love digging into authentic dishes while learning about local culture, this small-group food and bar tour is the perfect way to get to know the city.
Your local guide leads the way through Nagano’s backstreets and hidden izakaya (Japanese pubs), introducing you to places that most visitors would never find on their own. You’ll stop at several cozy spots for five different dishes and two drinks, sampling everything from sizzling yakitori to comforting bowls of ramen or soba. The food portions are generous enough to make a full meal—so come hungry!
Because it’s a small group, the experience feels relaxed and social, almost like joining friends for a night out. You won’t have to worry about getting lost or struggling with the menu, because your guide takes care of everything, even snapping photos along the way so you can relive the fun later.
Whether you’re looking for a memorable start to your trip or a satisfying evening on its own, this tour is a delicious way to experience Nagano’s local side!
Secure your spot on this tasty tour of Nagano here!
2. Meet Japan’s famous snow monkeys
- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: 7:40 am and 9:35 am
- Highlights: Visit Zenko-ji Temple, enjoy a guided sake tasting and a traditional Nagano lunch, see the famous snow monkeys soaking in hot springs at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
- Inclusions: Transportation between all activities, lunch (vegetarian/vegan options available), sake tasting, English-speaking guide, Snow Monkey Park entry, Hakuba shuttle service (winter only)
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 880+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Trying to see Nagano’s most famous sights in one day can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re juggling transport, temple etiquette, and figuring out where to eat. That’s why we joined this temple and snow monkey tour, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of our trip.
The day began at Zenko-ji Temple, a 1,400-year-old Buddhist landmark that truly feels like the spiritual heart of Nagano. Our guide, Kay, had such a warm, engaging personality and shared stories that gave real meaning to the temple’s long history and hidden traditions. After exploring, we headed to a nearby sake brewery where we sampled several varieties and learned the delicate balance of flavors that make each one unique.
Lunch came next, and it was honestly one of the most memorable meals we had in Japan—a beautifully presented bento and hot pot served in a century-old traditional home surrounded by calm countryside. It felt special, unhurried, and deeply local!
The grand finale was the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, reached by a peaceful forest trail. Watching the wild macaques soak and play in the steaming hot springs was nothing short of magical. Their calm expressions and playful splashes made it easy to see why they’re some of Japan’s most beloved residents.
The combination of culture, cuisine, and nature made this tour our absolute favorite experience in Nagano! And we’re clearly not the only ones who loved it—check out the glowing five-star reviews here to see why travelers call this the highlight of their trip!
Book this popular snow monkey tour before it sells out!
3. Explore on a walking tour (with tasty stops along the way!)
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Multiple times available from 9 am–1 pm
- Highlights: Stroll through Zenko-ji Temple town, sample Nagano specialties, explore charming backstreets, learn the history and culture of this historic temple area
- Inclusions: Local guide, two oyaki (Japanese stuffed dumplings), matcha tea and sake tasting, high-quality photographs shared at the end, small group tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
It’s easy to walk through Nagano’s temple town without realizing how much history and flavor hide behind the shopfronts. This small-group walking tour uncovers that side of the city, blending centuries of culture with delicious local bites you won’t find anywhere else.
Led by a local guide, the tour winds through the streets surrounding Zenko-ji Temple, where you’ll stop at traditional shops and family-run stalls to try specialties like oyaki, Nagano’s famous stuffed dumplings cooked over an open hearth.
The experience feels like stepping back in time—especially as you watch the dumplings crisp beside a cozy bonfire. Along the way, you’ll sample handmade sweets, make matcha tea served in a traditional tatami room, and even take part in a sake tasting paired with local snacks like pickled vegetables and miso soup.
What makes this tour special is how seamlessly it connects food and culture. Between tastings, your guide shares stories from Zenko-ji’s 1,400-year history, introduces you to neighborhood artisans, and shows you the quieter backstreets most visitors miss. It’s the kind of experience that reveals how everyday life and ancient tradition still blend effortlessly in Nagano.
With plenty of authentic flavors and fascinating insights packed into just a few hours, this small-group experience is a relaxed and flavorful way to discover the real Nagano—one bite at a time!
Reserve this tour here and taste a side of Nagano most visitors miss!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
4. Take a day trip to Kamikochi and Matsumoto Castle
- Duration: 9 hours
- Time: 8:15 am
- Highlights: Explore Matsumoto Castle on a small-group day trip, stroll Nawate “Frog Street,” walk along Kamikochi’s scenic Azusa River, enjoy guided tours and free time
- Inclusions: English-speaking guide, entry and guided tour of Matsumoto Castle, guided walk and free time at Kamikochi, transportation to all listed destinations with direct Kamikochi access
- Rating: 5 stars (check reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
From historic castles to alpine rivers, this small-group day trip from Nagano feels like stepping into two completely different worlds in a single day. It makes exploring both Matsumoto and Kamikochi effortless—no transportation hassles, no tight schedules—just a smooth, well-paced adventure you can fully enjoy.
We started the day at Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s few remaining original castles. Climbing its steep wooden stairs to the top felt like stepping straight into the samurai era, with sweeping mountain views from the upper floor.
Afterward, we wandered through the quirky Nawate Shopping District, nicknamed “Frog Street,” where every corner hides a charming shop or café (and yes—lots of frog-themed souvenirs!).
From there, the scenery changed completely as we drove into the Japanese Alps to explore Kamikochi. The walk along the crystal-clear Azusa River, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, was peaceful and breathtaking. With only a small group, we had time to soak in the views, chat with our guide, and even stop for coffee by the river.
This tour was the perfect blend of nature, culture, and convenience. We can see why so many travelers rave about it—scroll through the stellar five-star reviews here to see why it’s one of the top-rated day trips from Nagano!
Book this full-day adventure here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Related Read: Need help planning your trip? Check out our 1 or 2 day Nagano itinerary which includes some of these top activities and our personal recommendations!
5. Hike the scenic Nakasendo Trail
- Duration: 6 hours
- Time: Multiple times available from 9 am–11 am
- Highlights: Hike the Nakasendo Trail, explore charming Edo-era towns, learn local history from your guide on an easy 5-mile (8-kilometer) private walk through Japan’s mountain countryside
- Inclusions: Local English-speaking guide, designated meeting point, private tour
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
It’s easy to romanticize hiking through the Japanese Alps until you realize how tricky it can be to navigate rural trails, catch the right local buses, and still have time to actually enjoy the scenery. Booking this private hike on the Nakasendo Trail turned out to be such a great choice—it combined gentle exercise, rich history, and incredible scenery all in one day.
Our guide, Hiroshi, was incredibly knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and genuinely kind. He brought the route’s history to life with fascinating stories about the travelers who once journeyed between Kyoto and Tokyo. He even organized thoughtful touches along the way, like a stop for a comforting soba lunch and a visit to the Wakihonjin Museum in Tsumago.
The walk itself was peaceful and scenic, starting in Magome, with its sloping stone paths and wooden homes, and ending in Tsumago, one of Japan’s best-preserved post towns. We passed waterfalls, forested stretches, and quiet hamlets, each revealing something new about rural life in Japan.
Having a private guide made it even better—we could take our time, enjoy the views at our own pace, and really soak in the quiet beauty of the countryside.
By the end of the day, we felt both accomplished and inspired! The mix of peaceful scenery, fascinating history, and Hiroshi’s thoughtful guidance made this hike an experience we’ll never forget.
Book this private hike here and see Nagano’s countryside come to life!
6. Sip and stroll your way through Nagano’s best sake spots
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Multiple times available from 9 am–3 pm
- Highlights: Taste premium Nagano sakes and plum wine with local snacks, sample three types of amazake and miso soup, explore Zenko-ji Temple and nearby shops, visit a 120-year-old sake factory to learn about Japan’s centuries-old brewing traditions
- Inclusions: Sake tasting, English-speaking guide, miso soup, amazake (sweet drink), snacks like soy beans, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’ve ever been curious about Japan’s national drink, there’s no better place to experience it than Nagano. This small-group sake tasting tour is more than just sipping—it’s a journey into centuries of craftsmanship, flavor, and local pride.
Led by an expert guide, you’ll explore the quiet streets surrounding Zenko-ji Temple, stopping at local shops and shrines before stepping inside a 300-year-old sake maker for a tasting that’s both educational and delicious.
Here, you’ll sample more than five different sakes, including premium unfiltered and unpasteurized varieties, as well as seasonal blends and a sweet plum wine unique to Nagano. It’s an incredible opportunity to learn how subtle differences in ingredients and technique can completely transform the flavor.
You’ll also try Amazake, a traditional non-alcoholic rice drink, and enjoy local nibbles like soy beans, pickles, and a comforting bowl of Nagano miso soup—a perfect pairing for the crisp sake. Plus, a visit to an old, unused sake factory, built over a century ago, offers a rare glimpse into Japan’s historic brewing process.
With its mix of culture, taste, and tradition, this small-group tour stands out as one of the most authentic ways to experience Nagano. It’s an intimate, flavorful experience that connects you directly to the city’s heritage, sip by sip!
Read the five-star reviews and book this one-of-a-kind sake tour here!
Where to Stay in Nagano
We loved staying in Nagano’s historic center. It put us right in the action of sights, ancient temples, and amazing food. Plus, the historic charm had us swooning! I’d highly recommend booking your hotel in advance, especially if you’re trying to visit during the winter to see the snow monkeys. If these hotels are still avaliable when you’re ready to book, they are our top picks for a luxury, mid-range, or budget stay.
Luxury – $$$
Tucked just 15 minutes on foot from Zenko-ji Temple, Sauna Villa is more than just a place to sleep—it’s a full-on wellness escape. Each suite here feels like your own little retreat, complete with a private kitchen, sleek bathroom, and some even have an in-room sauna or open-air bath.
There’s a hot tub, sun terrace, and garden too, so you can totally lean into that slow, rejuvenating pace of the historic center. Suites typically range from $280 to $720 USD per night, depending on room size and features. Free cancellation is available too, which is always a nice bonus!
Check prices and availability for Sauna Villa here!
Mid-range – $$
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. 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!
Budget – $
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. 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.
Snag this budget-friendly stay near Zenko-ji here!
Related Read: For even more options, see our guide on Where to Stay in Nagano for the best areas and our recommended hotels!
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!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
While the Snow Monkey Park is a huge reason for visiting Nagano, we were happy to discover so many other fun activites in this city! We loved strolling through the historic center, seeing ancient temples, and finding centuries old builidings. Plus, getting out into nature is easy and we found some amazing restaurants. Needless to say, there is a lot to do in Nagano!
If you need help planning more of your travels, check out all of our Japan blogs here! We love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow travelers, so I’ll leave a few related blogs below to help you plan your next adventure.
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