If you have a Japan trip planned in the winter, you must consider Nagano. Although Nagano is known for winter sports and snow monkeys, Nagano has so much more to see and taste.
My wife and son took a drive to Nagano in the fall before the heavy snow and it reminded me why this mountainous region deserves a spot on your Japan winter itinerary.
Those Famous Snow Monkeys!
Remember those photos you’ve seen of Japanese macaques soaking in steaming hot springs while snow falls around them? That’s in Nagano! My son just visited Jigokudani Monkey Park and captured these incredible moments. There’s something absolutely enchanting about watching these creatures – so uniquely Japanese – relaxing in the onsen just like humans do. The park is a must-visit, and winter is actually the best time to go. That’s when you’re most likely to see the monkeys taking their famous hot spring baths!
2 Hidden Gems You Shouldn't Miss
Here’s something many first-time visitors don’t know about: there’s a beautiful historic town called Narai-juku that looks like it’s frozen in time. Imagine walking down narrow streets lined with traditional wooden buildings, everything covered in a pristine blanket of snow. It’s part of the old Nakasendo Trail (one of Japan’s historic highways), and unlike the often-crowded tourist spots in Kyoto, you might find yourself alone here with just the sound of snow crunching under your feet. It’s magical!
Matsumoto Castle also offers a unique glimpse into Japanese history. It’s one of Japan’s 12 original castles and is designated as a national treasure of Japan. Like many castles, it has undergone renovations and restorations over the past 150 years to preserve its original look.
Let's Talk Food!
You know I always have to tell you about the local specialties! Let me share one of my favorites first – Shinshu soba. I’ve had these buckwheat noodles in Nagano, and they’re absolutely incredible. There’s something special about slurping up hot, slightly nutty soba noodles while looking out at a snowy landscape. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t forget!
Nagano is also famous for savory dumplings called Oyaki. These dumplings are made from buckwheat flour and filled with local vegetables, meat, fish, or even sweet red bean paste and grilled until they’re perfectly warm and comforting. As a popular street food in the winter, please try one when you visit and let me know what you think!
Another local specialty to look out for is nozawana-zuke (pickled mustard greens). It adds the perfect tangy crunch to warm winter meals, and it’s something you’ll find served alongside many dishes in Nagano.
For alcohol drinkers, Nagano is also known for sake. The Endo Sake Brewery is a Nagano-based brewery that has been making sake since 1864.
In Matsumoto, you should visit the Matsumoto Brewery where they make craft beer that uses water from the Japanese Alps together with local grains and hops.
Getting to Nagano
Getting to Nagano is actually pretty straightforward! The easiest way is taking the Hokuriku Bullet Train. The Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station takes about an hour and a half and currently costs just under 8500 yen per ticket. The views of snow-covered mountains along the way are worth every minute. If you’re trying to save some yen, there are highway buses that take 4-5 hours and will only save you about 3000 yen per ticket. It seems worth it to me to take the train instead of the bus. However, if you take a car like we prefer, you have the best scenery, but you have to keep in mind that winter weather can cause delays.
Beyond the Famous Spots
While the snow monkeys are definitely worth seeing, here are a few other experiences I recommend:
- Visit Zenko-ji Temple when it’s draped in snow – it’s a completely different experience from seeing temples in other seasons.
- Try snowshoeing through quiet forests if you want something active but less intense than skiing.
- Soak in an outdoor onsen while snow falls around you (yes, you can do this even if you’re not a snow monkey).
What interests you most about visiting Nagano in winter? Would you brave the cold to see those adorable snow monkeys?
Share a comment below – I’d love to hear your thoughts!