Enjoy a premium small-group tour—typically 6–8 guests—blending nature, culture, and great local food in one smooth day.

Start at Nagano Station and head to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. Walk a quiet forest trail to see wild macaques relaxing in natural hot springs—one of Nagano's most iconic sights.

Next, visit Obuse for a local lunch and a historic brewery sake tasting. Then enjoy some free time in this charming town, long associated with the artist Hokusai, whose later years in Obuse helped shape its cultural identity—stroll the scenic streets, browse local shops, and sample a few local treats at your own pace.

On 8:45 AM departures, there is also time for an optional visit to Zenkoji Temple—one of Nagano's most important historic landmarks (not available on 9:35 AM departures).

With beautiful scenery, authentic flavors, and a touch of art and history, this tour captures the best of Nagano—comfortably, efficiently, and in a genuinely personal small-group setting.

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

Take in some of the highlights of Nagano with this engaging tour starting with a morning visit to the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park and its world-famous hot spring-bathing monkeys, followed by a warming winter lunch and afternoon exploration of Zenko-ji - one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Japan. Led by a locally-based English-speaking guide and including a sake tasting experience to bring the tour to an indulgent conclusion this tour is a great way to enjoy the best of Nagano in winter!

1-Day Winter Tour From Nozawa Onsen: Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake

Guests on this exciting 1 day tour of Matsumoto Castle and Narai-juku will have the chance to get hands-on with Japan's fascinating history by personally entering the renowned Matsumoto Castle and strolling the streets of the quaint Narai-juku. There will also be opportunities to walk the downtown area of Matsumoto city and window shop or taste some of its delicious local specialties.

With all transport included in the tour, you will not have to worry about anything more than which souvenirs to buy for your family and friends. This tour also includes a seasonal activity at Narai-juku, to allow you to get even closer to the fascinating culture of this region of Japan which often feels as though it has been pulled out of a different era.

1 Day Tour From Nagano to Matsumoto Castle and Narai-Juku

Enjoy a guided temple tour and a fire ceremony as well as a traditional tea experience, sampling of local dumplings, 'sake' tasting, and a unique stay at a traditional 'shukubo.'

Zenkoji Tour and Tea Experience with 'Shukubo' Temple Stay

Sitting just outside Nagano City, the forests of Togakushi are home to some of Japan's most important Shinto shrines, sacred places that are linked to the myths of the creation of Japan itself, and the mountain refuge of the Togakure Ninja. This engaging tour gives insight into the daily lives of the ninja, taking you along short sections of the pilgrimage trails of the 'Togakushi Kodo,' and deep into culture, myth, and legend. This tour includes a hands-on soba making experience, visits to two of the most important Shinto shrines, the Togakushi Ninja Museum, and ends with a stroll through the grand avenue of giant cedar trees.

1-Day Togakushi Tour: Soba making, Ninja Town, and Hidden Shrines

Join this 1-day tour from Nagano, led by an English-speaking, nationally licensed guide-interpreter. Visit a historic miso brewery in Nagano Prefecture—Japan's leading miso-producing region—and observe the traditional miso-making process. Miso is a staple of Japanese cuisine, supporting the nation's diet for centuries. The brewery you'll visit has a history of around 300 years.

Next, explore the charming town of Obuse, known for its beautiful streets and delicious chestnuts. Enjoy free time to stroll around and sample local specialties.

In the afternoon, head to Jigokudani Monkey Park, famous for its Japanese macaques—also known as snow monkeys—that bathe in natural hot springs during the winter. The park offers a rare chance to observe these monkeys up close in every season. In spring and summer, you can delight in watching playful young monkeys and adorable newborns. Photos©Jigokudani Yaen koen Inc All Rights Reserved.

Snow Monkey Park & Miso Production Day Tour from Nagano

Enjoy a 2-day, 1 night trip in Nagano where you will spend one full day with an English-speaking guide taking you around the city—enjoying attractions such as snow monkeys, the famous Zenkoji Temple and later relaxing at a traditional onsen (hot springs) and enjoying a traditional Japanese multi-course (kaiseki) dinner at a traditional Japanese ryokan (hotel). On the second day after checking out of the hotel, spend the free day snowboarding/ skiing or spend more time exploring the city on your own (without tour guide), or book one of the add-on second-day tours with us.

Nagano Private Two Day Tour

Discover the spiritual side of Nagano on a guided tour of Zenkoji Temple. Enjoy a tasting of sake at a local brewery, savor the flavors of 'oyaki' dumplings, and take part in a tea experience.


Half-Day Zenkoji Tour with Tea Experience

Walk in the footsteps of Japan's most celebrated artist, Hokusai Katsushika, on this engaging one-day tour in the quaint, historic town of Obuse. Starting from Nagano Station, you will visit Hokusai's original studio in Obuse, view his original work at the Obuse Hokusai-kan Museum and finally, view his last and largest remaining 'in-situ' artwork – the giant phoenix of Gansho-in Temple. Including plenty of time to explore Obuse for yourself, this tour is designed to introduce you to or further your understanding of Japan's greatest artist in the very place he walked, worked and produced his final masterpiece.

1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan

On this full day private tour, visit the city of Matsumoto with your tour guide. Enjoy the historical Matsumoto Castle, the unique streets of Nawate and Nakamachi and see Daio Wasasbi Farm, the largest wasabi farm in Japan in the tranquil Hotaka Town.

Matsumoto Private One Day Tour from Nagano 

In recent years Central Japan has become increasingly popular as a stop along the Tokyo to Kyoto "Golden Route". The reason for this, simply stated, is that Central Japan offers every experience the traveler could desire from Japan, while also being located close to some of Japan's largest cities, such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. From majestic mountain peaks to delicious local sake, and of course the famous Snow Monkeys, our multiple day group tour of this amazing region of Japan will bring you to every location you dreamed of, and many you may not have heard of yet. Starting in Nagano and ending in Kanazawa, this tour is perfect for those wishing to move through central Japan and removes the necessity of dealing with train and bus transfers. While accommodation is not included, transport between all destinations and an English speaking guide are provided on every day of the tour, so you do not have to worry about the small things and can instead focus on enjoying your vacation time.

4 Days Central Japan Tour from Nagano to Kanazawa

This engaging special event tour transports you to Nagano's hidden samurai town of Matsuhiro for an afternoon of samurai experiences and discovery of the open secret beneath its feet before enjoying an early dinner and guided evening tour of the city's near-1400 year old Zenko-ji Temple during it's Tomyo Lantern Festival.

Naganos Hidden Samurai Town & Tomyo Lantern Festival Tour

Dive into Nagano's food culture with a hands-on cooking and walking experience. In a traditional Japanese house with a sunken hearth, you'll learn how to make oyaki—a beloved local dumpling filled with seasonal vegetables or sweet bean paste—and enjoy them warm with soba tea by the fire.

After the cooking session, stroll through the peaceful backstreets leading to Zenkoji Temple. Discover small, locally owned shops, taste unique regional flavors, and learn about Japanese dining customs and everyday culture from your guide.

・Make two oyaki dumplings and enjoy them with soba tea in a traditional Japanese hearth house
・Explore Nagano's backstreets on the way to Zenkoji Temple
・Discover local flavors and learn about Japanese dining culture
・Meet small business owners and hear stories of the neighborhood

*Please let us know if you have any food restrictions beforehand*

Nagano Cooking Tour : Make Oyaki & Stroll Historic Streets

Escape the crowds and dive into the spiritual heart of Japan on this private day tour. Have a hiking to the mystica Togakushi Shrine, known as a center of ninja legends surrounded by towering 400-year-old cedar trees. 
Learn soba making from a soba master and have a end up the journey with a Japanese sake at a historic brewery. — everything with a personal bilingual guide and private vehicle.

Tour Highlights
1. Learn soba-making from a master chef in the birthplace of Japan's finest buckwheat noodles.
2. Walk through a mystical 400-year-old cedar forest to Togakushi Shrine
3. Experience sake tasting at a historic brewery

What's Included
Round-trip private from Nagano Station
2 expert guides: interpreter + local guide
Soba making class & lunch
Japanese sake tasting at a local brewery

Not Included
Optional dinner
Personal purchases or souvenirs
Transportation to Nagano Station

Duration: 6 hours
Available languages: English, Japanese, Spanish (others on request)

Private Nagano Tour: Ninja Wisdom, Soba-Making & Sake

Situated between the popular destinations of Tokyo and Kyoto, the mountainous region of Nagano is the literal heart of Japan and a road less travelled by many international visitors. This tour combines some of the region's most iconic destinations - including the world-famous Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani, the 1400-year old Zenko-ji Temple, Matsumoto Castle, Narai-juku, and the historic old town of Takayama - with the unforgettable experience of being driven through Japan's Northern Alps, a place of high mountain peaks and rarefied beauty. With an English-speaking guide on both days, and transport between locations included, this tour captures the history and beauty of central Japan with the convenience and comfort of one easy package.

2-Day Snow Monkey Tour: Nagano to Takayama via Matsumoto

Discover the Art of Hokusai in Obuse: A Walking Tour with Sake & Local Flavors. Step into the world of ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai on this walking tour in Obuse, just 30 minutes by train from Nagano City. Obuse offers a unique mix of history, art, and local culture.

・Explore Hokusai's Legacy:
Visit the Hokusai Museum and Kozan Takai Memorial Museum to discover the life and works of the artist behind The Great Wave.

・Temple Experience:
See Hokusai's 'Phoenix Glaring in All Directions' at Ganshoin Temple, a stunning ceiling painting of a phoenix that follows you.

・Sake Tasting & Local Delights:
Enjoy sake tasting at a local brewery and a delicious lunch at a trendy restaurant, showcasing Obuse's culinary scene.

・Experience Obuse's Charm:
Wander through picturesque streets, meet local shopkeepers, and explore the town's culture and history.

This tour blends art, history, and local flavors for an unforgettable experience in one of Japan's most charming towns.

Heritage Town, Cuisine, Sake & Art: Explore Hokusai in Obuse

Visiting Zenkoji Temple, Togakushi Shrine, Nozawa Onsen, or the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park? Stop by Obuse, an enchanting town in Nagano prefecture, renowned for its connection to the legendary artist Katsushika Hokusai.

Stroll through the charming streets, admiring the beautiful gardens and inviting walking paths.

Visit the Hokusai-kan Museum and uncover the fascinating story of why Hokusai journeyed from Edo (modern-day Tokyo) to Obuse in his 80s.

Enjoy culinary delights that have been savored since Hokusai's time, including local sake and miso (including a bonus miso souvenir!).

We offer start times from 9:00am and 1:00pm. If you'd like to enjoy lunch in Obuse after the morning tour or begin the afternoon tour a bit earlier (such as around 12:00pm), we're happy to adjust the schedule to suit your plans. Just let us know your preferred time when booking.

Half Day Walking Tour in Obuse Hokusai Local Specialties

Let's Roam is the ultimate app-led adventure hunt company! Embark on a journey to discover top landmarks and hidden gems, all while answering trivia questions and tackling exciting challenges. Team up with friends or compete against them as you uncover fun facts and create unforgettable memories. 

Let's Roam Adventure Hunts are perfect for any occasion—whether it's a regular day out, a bachelorette party, a birthday celebration, or a corporate team-building event. Each player picks an interactive role, with unique challenges tailored to everyone. Get ready for an epic adventure!

Amazing Scavenger Hunt: East Meets West in Nagano!

Experience a day in the life of a samurai, as this tour explores Nagano's unique samurai past in historic town of Matsushiro, including visits to some of Japan's best-preserved samurai residences and hands-on experiences cooking local specialty "oyaki" and katana practice at an Edo Period military school. All led by a locally-based guide, this engaging tour is available throughout the year and offers real insight through firsthand experience of Nagano's samurai heritage

1 Day Samurai Life Tour Oyaki Samurai and Katana Practice

Explore Suwa-Taisha shrine, considered one of the oldest shrines in the country, and Buppou-syoryuji Temple with a guide to discover the world of natural faith.
Experience the essence of natural faith up close through a special "dedication performance of Osuwa Daiko" at Buppou-syoryuji Temple.
Engage in an exchange with Mr. YAMAMOTO Makoto, the guardian of Osuwa Daiko, who played a pivotal role in shaping today's Japanese drumming culture, and hear about his passion for the drums.

*Please note that masks are required during the experience to prevent infection.

Private Osuwa Daiko Performance Tour for Suwa Spiritual Essence

Osuwa Daiko, a taiko drumming style rich in history and culture in the Suwa region, evolved from the Kagura music dedicated to Suwa Taisha.
It has pioneered the modern ensemble taiko style and today attracts disciples from numerous countries worldwide who come to learn the art.
This beginner-friendly tour offers the chance to learn about Osuwa Daiko and experience the spiritual essence of traditional Japanese taiko drumming.

For Beginners Short Taiko Lesson at Osuwa Daiko Dojo

Step into a true samurai town—and finish with seasonal fruit picking—on this relaxed small-group day tour from Nagano.

Your day centers on Matsushiro Samurai Town, one of Nagano's best-preserved former castle districts. Walk through calm Edo-period streets and explore key sites tied to the legendary Sanada clan, including the castle ruins, the Sanada Treasure Museum, a samurai residence, and the Bunbu School where warriors trained in both studies and martial discipline. With an English-speaking guide, Matsushiro's history comes alive.

Then head to the countryside for seasonal fruit picking in Chikuma (included)—a fun local highlight that changes with the time of year.

Along the way, stop at Oyaki Farm Matsushiro for terrace views and factory viewing; freshly made oyaki are available to purchase (optional).

This tour is smooth and well-paced, returning to Nagano Station by mid-afternoon—ideal if you want a full experience without a late finish.

Historical Tours in Nagano