Things to do in Nagano Prefecture

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A traditional Japanese onsen with stone steps leading to a hot spring, surrounded by greenery and traditional buildings.
A person riding a bicycle down a tree-lined street with buildings on either side.
A traditional Japanese pagoda by a calm lake with autumn trees in the background.
A snowy ski slope with people snowboarding and skiing, surrounded by snow-covered trees and a clear sky.
A serene riverside with autumn trees, a traditional building, and a red bridge.

Nagano Attractions

They say the best things come in small packages, and this alluring city is no exception to the rule. From popular tourist attractions to thrilling excursions, there are loads of things to do in Nagano.

If you're ready to hit the streets of Nagano, join a few of the top tours & day trips on offer, and let a local expert show you some of the most popular sights. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our {202 fun activities in Nagano fun activities in Nagano} are also worth checking out.

Things to do

Snow Monkeys, Hokusai & Sake: A Perfect Day in Nagano

Snow Monkeys, Obuse & Sake: A Perfect Day in Nagano

$151
per adult
Snow Monkeys, Obuse & Sake: A Perfect Day in Nagano
Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail [1 Day Tour from Nagoya]

Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail [1 Day Tour from Nagoya]

$195
per adult
Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail [1 Day Tour from Nagoya]
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Nagano Prefecture must see attractions

1. Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort

Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort crisscrosses the face of rugged Kenashiyama, providing breathtakingly scenic settings for winter sports in the Nagano Prefecture. The village is renowned for its soothing hot springs. It also was important in the birth of alpine-style skiing in Japan. Discover a variety of terrain for skiing and snowboarding, including gentle beginner slopes and an exciting area for children, as well as challenging trails and a terrain park.
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A snowy ski slope with people snowboarding and skiing, surrounded by snow-covered trees and a clear sky.

2. Shiga Kogen Ski Area

Enjoy plenty of snow-based adventures as you swoop down the pistes of the Shiga Kogen Ski Area. With 18 interlinked resorts, it is the largest ski area in Japan. From gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert runs, there's something for everyone to enjoy at this winter wonderland.
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A ski slope with skiers, a ski lift, and buildings in the background.

3. Jigokudani Monkey Park

Enjoy the unique chance to watch wild Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) in their natural habitat at Jigokudani Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen). Located in Jigokudani (Hell’s Valley), the park was established in 1964 as a place to study and observe the behavior of this curious and sociable primate. Typically residing in the dense mountain forests, the monkeys are lured to the park by a controlled feeding program.
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A snowy scene with a small animal on a rock in a body of water.

4. Matsumoto Castle

Whether you visit during cherry blossom season or when snow tops the Japanese Alps in the distance, Matsumoto Castle is a sight to remember. Designated among the National Treasures of Japan, the castle is a magical display of steep stairs, low ceilings and weapons displays. Take your time wandering around and framing postcard-worthy photos of the iconic landmark.
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A traditional Japanese castle with multiple tiers, surrounded by autumn foliage and a stone bridge.

5. Zenko-ji Temple

Spend a day amid the relaxed spiritual atmosphere admiring Buddhist art and architecture when you visit Zenko-ji Temple. Dating back to A.D. 642, Zenko-ji Temple is an important religious landmark that has played a vital role in the evolution of Nagano as a city. It was built to enshrine Japan’s first Buddha statue, which depicts Amida Nyorai and arrived from the Korean Peninsula in 552.
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A traditional Japanese street with people walking, shops, and a large gate in the background.

What to do in Nagano Prefecture

Free Things to Do in Nagano

Touring on a shoestring budget in Nagano? Spend time, not your paycheck, on terrific experiences.

Nagano Olympic Museum - Find out if there are any special displays, exhibits or guided tours on at this popular museum.

Nio-mon Gate - Visit this historic landmark and learn a little about the area's cultural heritage.

Daizahoshi Pond - Take some time out beside the water to rest and restore your energy.

Garyu Park - Whether you know your cacti from carnations, you'll find beauty in this magnificent display.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Nagano Prefecture? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Nagano Prefecture attractions

A snow-covered mountain range with clear blue skies.

Hakuba Happo-One Ski Area

9.0/10 (260 reviews)
Hit the slopes at Hakuba Happo-One Ski Area, a top ski area in Hokujo. Discover the mountain views while you're in the area.
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Where to stay in Nagano Prefecture

Find the best Nagano Prefecture areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Nagano Prefecture
Learn more about Nagano Prefecture
A snowy mountain landscape with a group of skiers at the summit.
Photo by nagano8609
Open Photo by nagano8609

Shiga Highlands

Shiga Highlands is noteworthy for its skiing, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Maruike Ski Area and Shiga Kogen Ski Area.

A street with traditional buildings, a signboard, and framed artworks on display.

Kyukaruizawa

You'll enjoy the restaurants and museums in Kyukaruizawa. You might want to make time for a stop at Karuizawa New Art Museum or Kumoba Pond.

A ski lift on a snowy slope with skiers and a clear blue sky.
Photo by Kristen R
Open Photo by Kristen R

Echo Land

Echo Land might not have many top sights, but Hakuba Happo-One Ski Area and Happo-one Adam Gondola are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

A calm lake with a statue in the foreground, a boat in the middle distance, and a town with mountains in the background.
Photo by そらみみ
Open Photo by そらみみ

Kamisuwa Onsen

You'll enjoy the museums and monuments in Kamisuwa Onsen. You might want to make time for a stop at Suwashi Kohan Park or Lake Suwa.

A snow-covered shrine with red walls and a wooden gate, surrounded by tall trees.

Togakushi

You'll enjoy the museums and monuments in Togakushi. You might want to make time for a stop at Chibikko Ninja Village or Togakushi Ski Area.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Nagano Prefecture

A woman and child walking on a bridge over a body of water, with cherry blossoms in the background.

Hamamatsu

A collection of traditional Japanese dolls with various facial expressions and designs.

Takasaki

A garden with purple wisteria hanging from trees, surrounded by people and colorful flowers.

Nakano

A red bridge over a calm river, surrounded by cherry blossom trees.

Suzaka

A coastal landscape with a snow-capped mountain in the background.

Shizuoka

A snowy mountain slope with ski tracks, a wooden building, and a clear blue sky.

Hakuba

A cityscape at dusk with a mountain in the background.

Yamanashi

A traditional Japanese street with wooden buildings, a torii gate, and a mountainous backdrop.

Takayama

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Nagano on a sunny day?
What to do in Nagano on a rainy day?
Make the most of the wet weather by throwing yourself into an indoor activity, like a Japanese traditional performing arts show "Dekonaru-za" or a Shirakawago and Takayama Day Tour [From Nagoya].
What is Nagano famous for?
Nagano Olympic Stadium lives up to its reputation as an icon that you can't miss.
What should I not miss in Nagano?
Give yourself enough time here to discover fabulous sights such as Matsumoto Castle and Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum.
Are there cheap things to do in Nagano?
What can you do in Nagano for free?
You'll hardly have time to fetch your wallet out of your pocket with so many incredible free things to do:

  • Lake Suwa
  • Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza
  • M-Wave Olympic Memorial Arena
  • Lake Shirakaba

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