206.849.8511
Make Travel Make A Difference
Nagano, Japan's mountainous region has been popular with skiers for a hundred years.
Nagano has been popular with pilgrims, samurai warriors, forest bathers and temple guests for fourteen hundred years.
Discover Nagano: Ancient Japan
Location
Nagano is a mountainous prefecture located in the central Chūbu region of Japan's main island of Honshu. Nagano is a popular year-round destination, easily accessible from Tokyo via Shinkansen bullet train in just 90 minutes.
Mountain Monks
Yamabushi are mountain monks who practice a blend of Shinto, Buddhism and Taoism. They lead a ascetic and mostly solitary life, engaging in rigorous activities in nature to gain enlightenment.
"Crow" Castle
Nicknamed the "Crow Castle" for its black exterior, Mastsumoto castle offers stunning views with the Northern Alps backdrop, and boasting intact medieval defenses like hidden floors and stone-dropping slots.
Traditions
Rickshaws are believed to have been invented in Japan in the 1860s. In Matsumoto, it is still possible to travel by rickshaw - a fun way to explore the city.
Japanese Alps
Nagano comprises the stunning Japanese Alps, offering pristine wilderness with glaciers, alpine trails, historic villages, and hot springs. Nagano attracts nature lovers seeking traditional Japanese mountain life, climbers and skiers.
Winter Fun
Nagano is a premier winter sports destination, famous for world-class skiing and snowboarding. Nagano also offers such winter activities as moonlight snow-shoeing and igloo stays.
Yayoi Kusama
Known for her use of polka dots, pumpkins, and light, and for the immersive "Infinity Mirror Rooms", Yayoi Kusama's art is highly recognizable. Matsumoto city is Kusama's birthplace, and the location of her museum.
Snow Monkeys
The Japanese macaque has featured prominently in the religion, folklore, and art of Japan, and in proverbs and idiomatic expressions. In Nagano's winter months, "snow monkeys" warm up in hot springs.
Vacation Itineraries including Nagano
ALPINE JAPAN
10 days from $4399
TRADITIONAL JAPAN
10 days from $4199
Popular Nagano Experiences
to add to any itinerary
ZENKOJI TEMPLE STAY
2 days / 1 night
1 breakfast, 1 dinner
Spend 2 days and 1 night at Zenkoji temple, one of Japan’s most beloved Buddhist landmarks. Located in Nagano City and founded in 7th century, Zenkoji welcomes all faiths. Experience vegan meals, interaction with monks, Zen meditation sessions and other activities in its serene incense-filled halls.
Guests also take part in unique spiritual experiences, such as the serene “Oasaji” morning service
at sunrise, the Mawari Goma fire ceremony —the “flames of wisdom” are believed to burn away
worldly desires and grant wishes—and sutra copying, a meditative practice to calm the mind and
restore inner peace.
A temple stay is an unforgettable experience that offers rebirth, hope, and spiritual renewal for travelers seeking culture, history, reflection, and inspiration. This experience is available April - September.
DAY 1: Check in at Zenkoji Temple and meet your local guide. Experience Mawari Goma Fire Ceremony and Sutra copying at Daikanjin. Enjoy a shojin ryori (special temple food) vegan dinner.
DAY 2: Attend the 5:30am Oasaji service in the Main Hall, followed by breakfast and check out.
EDO ERA NOSTALGIA
2 days / 1 night
1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
For 2 days, you'll not only live like a Nagano local - you'll step back in time to the Edo Period (1603-1868)! This experience immerses travelers in the rich historical heritage of Komoro-juku, a former post town on the Nakasendō Way, once serving travelers between Edo and Kyoto. This section of the Nakasendo Way is also known as the Gold Road - the road along which gold was transported from Sado Island to Tokyo. Today, Komoro-juku features historic streets, Kaikoen Castle Park, literary heritage linked to Shimazaki Tōson, and views of Mount Asama’s volcanic landscape.
Spend the night in a historic private villa, enjoying authentic local cuisine, a visit to Komoro Castle and a pilgrimage walk to Nunobiki Cannon Temple, also important during the Edo period.
DAY 1: Meet your guide at Komoro Station and head to your soba-making experience. Then take a 2-hour pilgrimage walk before checking in to your villa to freshen up for dinner.
DAY 2: After a Japanese style breakfast, check out and head to Komoro Castle. Take a walk along the Gold Road, your reward is a farewell lunch with Japanese sweets. Tour ends back at Komoro Station.
TOGAKUSHI WAY WALK
2 days / 1 night
1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
This 2-day pilgrimage walk from Zenkoji Temple to Togakushi Shrine, known as the Togakushi Trail has long been used by Yamabushi (mountain monks). The walk follows a sacred forest path connecting ancient shrines beneath towering cedar trees. Smooth stone trails, cool mountain air, and filtered light create a meditative rhythm.
The route blends natural beauty, myth, and quiet spiritual reflection. Seasonal changes reveal snow, blossoms, moss, and autumn colors along the journey each year. Pilgrims reflect as they walk, breathing mountain air and rediscovering inner peace.
Arriving at their temple-stay, pilgrims enjoy soaking in the natural hot springs which ease the body and spirit, then dine on a multi-course vegan temple meal and, finally, sleep deeply in the quiet of the forest.
DAY 1: Meet your guide at Nagano Station and head to Zenkoji Temple by vehicle. Start walking the Togakushi Ancient Road (5 miles) enjoying lunch along the way. On arrival at Houkosha, check into your ryokan or temple stay (your choice) and relax before your multicourse Japanese dinner.
DAY 2: After breakfast, walk the pilgrimage trail 5 miles to the Five Shrines in Togakushi, with lunch en route. End the experience by taking a van to Nagano Station.
CYCLE, HOTSPRINGS & RYOKAN STAY
2 days / 1 night
1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
Cycle through Japan’s countryside from Iiyama to Nozawa Onsen, passing flower-filled fields, historic shrines, and the peaceful shores of Lake Hokuryu. After a scenic climb, enjoy sweeping river views before arriving at the hot spring village. Luggage delivery service allows you to cycle comfortably. Relax and savor the local onsen hospitality.
In Nozawa, deepen your connection with Japanese tradition at a temple in Iiyama. Experience Shabutsu (tracing Buddhist images), Zazen meditation, and savor a beautifully prepared Shojin ryori vegan meal
— a traditional form of plant-based Buddhist cuisine.
Surrounded by nature and temple stillness, this is a rare opportunity to slow down and reconnect with
both culture and self.
DAY 1: Arrive at Iiyama Station and collect your rental bike and English-language map. Cycle to Nozawa Hot Springs and check in to your ryokan. Relax in the hot springs before your multi-course Japanese dinner.
DAY 2: After breakfast, cycle to Daishoji Temple and experience Zazen meditation and a special Shojin ryori vegan lunch. Cycle back to Iiyama Station and return your bike.
MATSUMOTO CITY BREAK
3 days / 2 nights
2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
Step into Nagano's beating heart - Matsumoto, where history, nature, and craftsmanship converge. Marvel at the timeless beauty of Matsumoto Castle, explore the city's surrounding forests and sustainable practices that have shaped the area, and immerse yourself in Japanese artistry with a private tour of the Matsumoto City Museum, featuring works by Yayoi Kusama.
Experience the mastery of traditional woodworking firsthand at the renowned m4 Atelier, where centuries of craft meet modern elegance.
Each evening, unwind in the serene ryokan Tobira Onsen Myojinkan, where thoughtfully designed architecture, exquisite cuisine, and hot springs create the perfect retreat. Delight in the subtle beauty of Japanese traditions through calligraphy, tea ceremonies, and music.
Matsumoto is more than a destination — it’s a journey into Japan’s soul, where culture and craft exist in perfect harmony.
DAY 1: Meet your guide at Matsumoto Station and embark on a walking tour of Matsumoto Castle and surrounding town. After lunch, head to the Museum of Art where the works of Yayoi Kusama, among other artists, are housed. Check in at your ryokan and relax with a soaking bath.
DAY 2: After breakfast, visit the atelier of master wood craftsman Maeda san. As well as seeing how wood products are crafted, you'll stroll through the forest to see how Maeda san grows the trees that will one day become beautiful furniture and art objects.
DAY 3: This morning you have a choice of cultural tours from tea ceremony to calligraphy to koto-playing. After lunch, your tour ends ans you will be returned to Matsumoto station.
SCARED FALLS & FALL FOLIAGE
3 days / 2 nights
2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
This 3-day autumn adventure takes visitors canyoning and hiking amongst brilliant autumn foliage at the Yonako Waterfall Cluster - comprised of White Dragon Falls and Black Dragon Falls - which captivate visitors with contrasting cascades flowing through forested mountain terrain. Named for mythic dragons, they offer a serene setting for nature walks, photography, and quiet reflection amid moss, mist, and rushing water. The falls are are considered a scared mountain faith destination by Fudoji Temple, located at the base of the Falls.
When not enjoying outdoor activities, visitors stay in the historic town of Suzaka, once an important silk trading stop on the ancient Ozasa Road. Sazaka is now known for its preserved kura storehouses, apple orchards, and access to mountain scenery. Sazaka offers a slower pace of life, seasonal fruit, historic streets, and proximity to hiking, skiing, and hot springs. This is a step back in time, a nostalgic journey to a by-gone era.
DAY 1: Arrive at Nagano Station and transfer to Suzaka City. Enjoy a typical Japanese lunch before heading to Fudoji Temple to participate in a Fire Ritual and learn about Fudo Buddhism. Take a relaxing hot springs soak before checking in at your hotel and having dinner.
DAY 2: After breakfast, transfer to the trailhead and hike with your guide to the waterfalls stopping at the Kimyōsan Stone Buddhas and marveling at the autumn colors. After your hike and a stop for a hot springs soak, return to your hotel. Tonight have dinner in town and join local people for sake-tasting.
DAY 3: After breakfast, transfer to Tanaka Honke Museum and learn about the affluent merchant culture of Suzaka. For lunch indulge in a special Edo-period meal. Transfer to Nagano Station.
TOGAKUSHI WAY BY
E-BIKE
3 days / 2 nights
2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
Traveling by private van and e-bike, this itinerary allows for extensive exploration of the Togakushi Trail and National Park, with light physical effort. Easy walks and trail riding by e-bike in the National Park allow access to old-growth forests and picturesque lakes.
Togakushi Trail winds through the towering cedar forests of Nagano, linking ancient shrines along a sacred pilgrimage route. Stone paths, mountain air, and spiritual history create a peaceful experience blending nature, legend, and centuries-old Shinto tradition.
Starting at Zenkoji Temple and ending at Togakushi Shrine, the itinerary also includes stops to see local artisans engaging in bamboo weaving and soba noodle making.
2 nights accommodation in western-style accommodation is included.
DAY 1: Arrive at Nagano Station and visit Zenkoji Temple. Transfer to Togakushi Shrine for a special worship experience. Enjoy free time to stroll around town, famous for bamboo crafts, before heading to your hotel for dinner.
DAY 2: Ride an e-bike to Togakushi National Park, then ascend by van to a picnic spot at 4600 feet before continuing your exploration of the park. In the afternoon, participate in a soba noodle-making experience before returning to your hotel.
DAY 3: After breakfast, visit Togakushi Shrine and Kagami Pond. Tour ends at Nagano Station.
SNOW MONKEY & RYOKAN BREAK
3 days / 2 nights
2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
Experience Nagano's diverse winter wonderland in Iiyama. From the mystical cedar-lined paths of Togakushi Shrine, named one of the natural wonders of the world, to the charming Snow Monkeys, Iiyama, is a destination that inspires awe in every season. For 5 days, revel in the best of Iiyama and its surrounds.
Relax in the healing waters of Yudanaka Shibu Onsen, where traditional hot spring inns offer private open-air baths, exquisite Japanese cuisine, and heartfelt hospitality. For a truly unique experience, savor a meal inside a glowing Kamakura snow hut (igloo), surrounded by a serene snowy landscape. And of course,
Nagano’s world-class ski resorts promise thrilling adventures for all levels.
Katsushika Hokusai, one of Japan’s most celebrated artists, is world renowned for works like The Great
Wave off Kanagawa. His biggest Masterpiece is nearby, in Obuse.
Whether you seek relaxation, culture,or adventure, Northern Nagano brings together the very best of Japan into one magical retreat.
DAY 1: Arrive Iiyama Station and transfer to an igloo restaurant for lunch, followed by sake tasting at a local brewery. Check into your ryokan at Yukanaka Hot Springs.
DAY 2: With your guide, visit the Hokusai Museum followed by the Snow Monkey Park.
DAY 3: With your guide, visit Togakushi Shrine and Zenkoji Temple. Tour ends at Nagano Station.
SNOW COUNTRY CABIN BREAK
4 days / 3 nights
3 breakfasts, 1 dinner
%20S_JPG.jpg)
Spend 4-days exploring Iiyama from your base in a cozy cabin. Activities include day time or moonlight snowshoe trekking in Mt. Nabekura which offers a peaceful and quiet journey through deep, untouched snowfields and panoramic winter mountain views.
In Iiyama town, try Japanese paper making and make a souvenir you will treasure.
Temple visitors can immerse themselves in Zen culture through activities such as zazen meditation and Shabutsu, the mindful tracing of Buddhist images.
Visit the snow monkeys and see them enjoying the warmth of their favorite hot springs at Snow Monkey Park. Later, enjoy a visit to (human) hot springs and relax in the healing waters yourself.
DAY 1: Arrive at Iiyama Station and head to the local supermarket to provision your cabin stay. Transfer by local train and shuttle van to your cabin and settle in before you are collected for a moonlight snowshoeing experience, arriving back at your cabin for a prepared dinner.
DAY 2: Today you have many options for exploring Iiyama and surrounds. Perhaps visit the Snow Monkey Park, or try a paper-making craft, or Zen meditation at a local temple. Or, head to Nozawa Onsen for downhill skiing and/or soaking in the hot springs.
DAY 3: This morning, head out on a snow-shoeing adventure to Mt Nabekura. Return to your cabin when you choose. Tonight, perhaps try a local restaurant for dinner (own expense).
DAY 4: Take the free shuttle to Togari Nozawa Onsen station for your onward journey.
SPIRITUAL TREK & YAMABUSHI MONK MEET
7 days / 6 nights
6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
Shugendo is a unique Japanese spiritual tradition with a strong emphasis on ascetic mountain practices, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment through direct engagement with nature. Mountain monks called Yamabushi walked the mountains in search of enlightenment. Their traditional trails are used in this tour.
Three sites - Togakushi, Iizuna, and Kosuge - form the spiritual backbone of northern Nagano, each offering unique insights into the rich tapestry of Shugendo. Meet a mountain monk, then trek to these sites and you’ll experience a unique spiritual encounter that some say is life-changing. Explore old growth cedar forests, taste local cuisine and relax in hot springs. See the rural beauty of the Japanese countryside and ascend Mt.Iizuna for spectacular views. Stay in traditional ryokans and enjoy local dishes like soba noodles and miso-based specialties. Your luggage is transferred.
DAY 1: Meet your guide at Iiyama station, transfer to Kosuge Village for a Mountain Monk ritual before enjoying lunch in a Japanese garden. Trek 2 miles to your ryokan and check in. Enjoy a multi-course Japanese dinner.
DAY 2: Spend the morning participating in a spiritual calligraphy experience. Then trek 8 miles along the Madarao Shin'etsu Trail, with picnic lunch en route. Check into your hotel; buffet dinner.
DAY 3: Trek 8 miles on the Amatomi Trail; lunch at Naena Waterfall. Return to hotel for wagyu dinner.
DAY 4: Trek 6 miles along Togakushi Trail, visit shrines en route. Check into your ryokan for the evening and enjoy a multi-course dinner.
DAY 5: Transfer to Nagano City and visit Zenkoji Temple. Experience a Fire ritual. Enjoy free time in Nagano City in the afternoon. Overnight at hotel or choose a temple stay.
DAY 6: After breakfast, travel by van to Mt Iizuna, trek 5 miles to Iizuna Shrine. Return to Nagano City for a farewell dinner in an Izakaya (gastro pub).
DAY 7: After breakfast, check out.