Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Nagano, Japan

Nagano, situated within the Nagano Prefecture, is recognized as a premier destination for winter activities on Honshu. The region boasts a variety of ski slopes that cater to skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Additionally, visitors can observe the renowned ‘snow monkeys,’ known for bathing in local hot springs during colder months.

Beyond the allure of the monkeys and the snow, Nagano presents diverse attractions such as temples, gardens, and museums. It serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider region, where visitors can embark on unique day trips to experience a less commercialized aspect of Japan, offering insight into the everyday lives of locals beyond the bustling metropolitan areas like Tokyo and Osaka.

Here are the 15 best things to do in Nagano…

1. Visit Zenkoji

Zenkoji, established in the 7th century, ranks among the most renowned pilgrimage sites for the Buddhist community in Japan.

It houses a hibutsu, or hidden Buddha, which is revealed to the public once every six years, with the next viewing scheduled for 2022, followed by subsequent showings every six years.

Consider timing your visit accordingly to glimpse the Buddha statue while enjoying the tranquil surroundings and browsing the array of shops selling lucky charms and talismans located in front of the temple.

2. Explore Nishi-no-Mon

Nishi-no-Mon is a sake brewery situated in Nagano and features an attached gift shop, museum, and restaurant.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the brewery and museum, where they will encounter a collection of historical photographs detailing the brewery’s history, alongside ancient and contemporary brewing equipment.

At the tour’s conclusion, participants have the opportunity to sample sake, a traditional Japanese rice wine, and to purchase bottles as mementos of their visit.

3. Try the onsen

Nagano is well-known for its onsen, which are traditional Japanese hot springs where visitors can enjoy both indoor and outdoor bathing, providing a perfect relaxation opportunity after a long day.

Among the most celebrated onsens in Nagano is Kagai onsen Ichiyoukan, featuring baths filled with brown water divided by gender.

Another notable onsen is Omuro Onsen Makibanoyu, which boasts a large outdoor bath, known as a rotenburo, offering views overlooking the scenic Zenkouji Plain.

4. Try the local delicacies

While Nagano may not be regarded as one of Japan’s leading food capitals, the region still offers a variety of local delicacies to sample.

Among the popular local specialties is oyaki, a type of Japanese dumpling that is steamed and available in both sweet and savory varieties. Common fillings include pumpkin, eggplant, red bean paste, pickled vegetables, and mushrooms.

Additionally, visitors should not miss the opportunity to try oden, a stew composed of white radishes, hard-boiled eggs, and fish cakes.

5. Visit the Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum

Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum is regarded as one of the most significant museums within the region, attracting art enthusiasts from across the nation.

The museum features multiple galleries known for exquisite landscape paintings, alongside European art and esteemed Japanese nihon-ga pieces exemplifying a traditional style of painting.

6. Go skiing

The Nagano region is celebrated for its ski resorts, providing convenient access from Nagano City to some of Japan’s most iconic ski destinations, including Yabuhara Heights, Shiga Kogen Heights, and Nozawa Onsen.

These resorts feature a variety of slopes suited for winter sports, complemented by ski lifts, ropeways, and gondolas that allow for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

For those inclined towards outdoor activities, hiking and snowshoeing are also popular endeavors during the winter season.

7. Experience Binzuru

Binzuru represents the primary summer festival in Nagano, held on the first Saturday of August annually.

Approximately 200 musical and dance groups participate in the festival, which also features a procession honoring the Indian Buddhist saint Pindola Bharadvaja.

During the event, participants march through the streets of Nagano to Zenkoji temple, where they rub the statue of Binzuru, a practice believed to bring good fortune.

8. Visit Togakushi Shrine

Togakushi Shrine is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, encompassing several smaller shrines and hiking trails leading into the scenic surroundings.

The shrine features noteworthy attributes such as Kagami Pond, known for its tranquil waters, and a famous noodle shop across the street that draws locals for its delectable soba noodles.

9. Check out the snow monkeys

One of the principal attractions in Nagano is the opportunity to observe the famous ‘snow monkeys’ inhabiting the region.

The monkeys reside in Jigokudani valley, part of the Yokoyu River, accessible from Shiga Heights and the Shibu-Yudanaka onsens.

Over 200 snow monkeys frequent the area, taking refuge in the local onsens during colder weather for a warm soak.

10. Try horse meat sashimi

For the adventurous gastronomes visiting Nagano, sampling horse meat may provide a unique culinary experience.

This dish, known as basashi, consists of raw, thinly sliced horse meat intended as a form of sashimi. It is widely available throughout the city, with locals praising its rich, gamey flavor.

11. Visit Chibikko Ninja Village

Those with an interest in ninja culture or family visiting with children should consider a trip to Chibikko Ninja Village.

Ninjas were historically prominent in Japan during the 15th and 16th centuries, often employed as mercenaries, and the village features a genuine ninja house where actual ninjas demonstrate a variety of skills and techniques.

Visitors can also participate in training sessions aimed at aspiring ninjas, which include classes on knife throwing and bamboo sword combat. While some classes may seem daunting, they are designed to be family-friendly and welcoming to children.

12. Visit the Sanada Treasure Museum

The Sanada Treasure Museum serves as a repository for memorabilia and antiques belonging to the Sanada family, who thrived during the Edo period after rising from modest beginnings.

Visitors can explore the fascinating treasures the family accumulated throughout their lives, alongside picturesque grounds that evoke the historical lifestyle of this region.

Though smaller than other museums in Nagano, it is well worth visiting, particularly for those with an appreciation for antiques and historical photographs.

13. Take a trip to Matsushiro

If seeking an escape from Nagano, consider a visit to Matsushiro, located approximately 12 kilometers to the south of the city.

This area is known for its charming, historical samurai residences that offer a glimpse into the past. Many buildings retain their traditional architecture, complemented by beautiful Japanese Zen gardens.

The presence of small museums and quaint temples adds to the picturesque character, making it an ideal destination for those with ample time for exploration.

14. Togakushi Forest Botanical Garden

Togakushi Forest Botanical Garden extends across approximately 771 hectares, renowned for its stunning pine forests.

Birdwatching enthusiasts will find this garden particularly appealing, as it serves as a haven for various bird species alongside diverse flora and fauna.

There are numerous cycling paths throughout the garden and inner trails, offering a serene environment to enjoy colorful plants and tranquil scenery.

15. Stock up on Shichimi

Shichimi, widely recognized as ‘Seven Flavors,’ is a popular Japanese condiment composed of a flavorful blend of herbs and spices, including ground chilies, sesame seeds, and citrus leaves.

This condiment is commonly sprinkled on dishes such as soba noodle soup to impart a distinct kick, and it is available for purchase at Yawayata Isogoro, a local store in Nagano that has been producing Shichimi for over 280 years.

For those wishing to bring a piece of Japan home, this is an exemplary choice.