Chikuma

Travel Guide

A mountainous landscape with a river in the foreground and a building in the background.
A river with a bridge, buildings, and mountains under a clear sky.
A traditional Japanese temple with a curved roof, surrounded by lush greenery.
Terraced fields, a small building, and distant mountains.
Photo by くろふね (Creative Commons Attribution 3.0)
A panoramic view of a city with a river, fields, and mountains in the background.
Photo by くろふね (Creative Commons Attribution 3.0)

Where to stay in Chikuma

Find the best Chikuma areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Chikuma
Learn more about Chikuma
A traditional Japanese castle with a reflection in the water, surrounded by autumn trees and a clear sky.

Togura

Togura might not have many top sights, but Nishizawa Piggy Bank Museu and Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

A traditional Japanese temple with a tiled roof, surrounded by a gravel path and colorful flags.
Photo by Qurren
Open Photo by Qurren

Inariyama

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Inariyama and surrounding area, you can visit Nagano Prefectural Museum of History and Chausuyama Zoo.

Chikaraishi

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Chikaraishi and surrounding area, you can visit Nishizawa Piggy Bank Museu and Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle.

Kamesei Ryokan

Kamesei Ryokan

3 out of 5
2-15-1 Kamiyamada Onsen Chikuma Nagano
$69 nightly
The price is $76 total per night from Dec 1 to Dec 2
$76 total
Dec 1 - Dec 2
Stay at this ryokan in Chikuma. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and hot springs on site. Popular attractions Nishizawa Piggy Bank Museu and Joyama Historic Park ...
9/10 Wonderful! (99 reviews)
"Beautiful though slightly older ryokan. Owners were absolutely lovely, helpful, very friendly and were great to have a chat with. Due to some communication issues we were unable to organise a meal there, but the owners were very apologetic and offered a free session in the private family onsen as ..."

Reviewed on Jun 23, 2026

Kamesei Ryokan
Kashiwaya

Kashiwaya

3 out of 5
1-39-3 Tokura Kamiyamada Onsen Chikuma Nagano
$69 nightly
The price is $81 total per night from Dec 1 to Dec 2
$81 total
Dec 1 - Dec 2
Stay at this ryokan in Chikuma. Enjoy free parking, hot springs on site, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain ...
7.6/10 Good! (73 reviews)
"This place is so authentic. It was a true gem of a Japanese experience for our family. We loved everything about it: hospitality, clean rooms, beautiful views, natural spring style onsens… Highly recommend!"

Reviewed on Dec 23, 2025

Kashiwaya
Hotel JAL City Nagano

Hotel JAL City Nagano

3 out of 5
1221, Toigosho-machi Nagano Nagano-ken
$64 nightly
The price is $71 total per night from Nov 29 to Nov 30
$71 total
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Stay at this hotel in Nagano. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and parking (surcharge). Popular attractions Kitano Cultural Center and Gondo Shopping ...
Hotel JAL City Nagano
See all 675 properties in Chikuma
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
HOTEL LA VIGNE HAKUBA by Onko Chishin

HOTEL LA VIGNE HAKUBA by Onko Chishin

4.5 out of 5
1116 3020 Hokujo, Hakuba Hakuba Nagano
Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Hakuba. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Hakuba Happo-One Ski Area and ...
HOTEL LA VIGNE HAKUBA by Onko Chishin
B&D HAKUBA IWATAKE

B&D HAKUBA IWATAKE

4 out of 5
12130-2 Hakuba Nagano
Stay at this aparthotel in Hakuba. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Popular attractions Hakuba Happo-One Ski Area and Hakuba Iwatake ...
10/10 Exceptional! (5 reviews)
"Friendly, welcoming"

Reviewed on Feb 18, 2026

B&D HAKUBA IWATAKE
Condominium Hakuba Goryu

Condominium Hakuba Goryu

2.5 out of 5
22183-74 Kamishiro Shiro Kawahara Hakuba Nagano-ken
Book a stay at this ski condo in Hakuba. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a free area shuttle. Our guests praise the property condition in our reviews. Popular ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (42 reviews)
"Great slope side access. Basic accommodations, but staff are very friendly and helpful, and room was clean."

Reviewed on Apr 3, 2026

Condominium Hakuba Goryu
See all properties in Chikuma
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Chikuma attractions

Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle

8.0/10 (2 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, a lovely green space in Chikuma. Visit the temples and shops in this walkable area.
See properties

Things to do

Full Day Snow Monkey Park and Togakushi Shrine Tour in Nagano

Full Day Snow Monkey Park and Togakushi Shrine Tour in Nagano

$138
per adult
Full Day Snow Monkey Park and Togakushi Shrine Tour in Nagano
Strolling through the towering cedar avenue of Togakushi.

Togakushi: A Serene Walk Through Sacred Forests & Soba Traditions

$139
per adult
Togakushi: A Serene Walk Through Sacred Forests & Soba Traditions
Nagano: Snow Monkeys, Obuse, & Hot Spring Foot Bath Tour

Nagano: Snow Monkeys, Obuse, & Hot Spring Foot Bath activity

$88
per adult
Nagano: Snow Monkeys, Obuse, & Hot Spring Foot Bath activity
Tokyo & Nagano: Snow Monkey & Zenkoji Temple Adjustable Tour

Tokyo & Nagano: Snow Monkey & Zenkoji Temple Adjustable Tour

$209
per adult
Tokyo & Nagano: Snow Monkey & Zenkoji Temple Adjustable Tour
Nagano: Tateyama-Kurobe Guided Walking Tour

Nagano: Tateyama-Kurobe Guided Walking Tour

$209
per adult
Nagano: Tateyama-Kurobe Guided Walking Tour
Tunnel of Light and Art Landscapes from Nagano and Nozawa

Tunnel of Light and Art Landscapes from Nagano and Nozawa

$151
per adult
Tunnel of Light and Art Landscapes from Nagano and Nozawa
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Frequently asked questions

Is Chikuma worth visiting?
Chikuma is worth visiting for its standout attractions, such as the Nagano Prefectural Museum of History, which offers insights into the region's past. Travelers can also explore the historic Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle. Plus, the area offers practical train access, making it convenient to get around.
When is the best time to visit Chikuma?
The best time to visit Chikuma is from May through September, when the climate is generally most pleasant for travelers. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good option, offering a cooler season experience.
What is Chikuma known for?
Chikuma is known for its historical and cultural attractions, including the Nagano Prefectural Museum of History. Travelers can also visit Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, as well as the distinctive Nishizawa Piggy Bank Museum. These sites offer a look into the area's heritage.
What is a good itinerary length for Chikuma?
A good itinerary length for Chikuma is two to three days to experience its main attractions, including the Nagano Prefectural Museum of History, Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, and Nishizawa Piggy Bank Museum. For a more in-depth trip, consider four to five days, allowing you to explore at a relaxed pace and perhaps take advantage of train travel in the area.
How do you get around Chikuma?
Travelers can get around Chikuma primarily by train, with Chikuma Obasute Station serving the area. This offers a convenient way to explore the local surroundings and connect to other destinations. For more flexible travel or reaching specific spots, rideshare services are also an option.
What are the top things to do in and around Chikuma?
In Chikuma, discover historical sites, scenic parks, and interesting museums:


How do I plan a trip to Chikuma?
To plan your trip to Chikuma, book flights and hotels in advance, especially during busy times. You can explore attractions like Nagano Prefectural Museum of History and Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle. Travel by train, or consider a rental car for more flexibility. Remember to pair outdoor plans with indoor backups for weather.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Chikuma?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Chikuma by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Chikuma with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Chikuma trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Chikuma?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Chikuma can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Chikuma trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Chikuma trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Chikuma trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Chikuma trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Chikuma?
If it's your first trip to Chikuma, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Chikuma hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Chikuma hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Chikuma

A traditional Japanese street with wooden buildings, a tree, and a street lamp.

Ueda

A waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff surrounded by lush green forest.

Nagano

A rural road flanked by leafless trees and mountains under a clear blue sky.
Photo by Yobito KAYANUMA (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0)

Sakaki

A close-up of a pinkish-red tissue with a distinct pattern.

Omi

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