5 activities to enjoy while sightseeing in Nagano

Nagano, with its natural beauty and rich culture from season to season, is full of attractions for foreign visitors.

You can enjoy trekking against the spectacular backdrop of the Alps, get a taste of Japanese culture at historic sightseeing spots, relax in hot springs, or enjoy the snow at world-famous ski resorts in winter.
You can also enjoy a wide variety of experiences, including tasting delicious local specialties.

In this issue, we will introduce five activities that you should definitely enjoy when you visit Nagano.

Walking in Karuizawa, a long-time favorite of foreigners

Source: https://karuizawa-kankokyokai.jp/

Karuizawa has long been loved by foreigners as a summer resort.

Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, in particular, is a large shopping mall featuring both domestic and international brands, and is a must-see for shopaholics. A full day tour of Karuizawa’s rich natural environment on a rented bicycle is also recommended.

The Old Karuizawa Ginza, St. Paul’s Church, and other streetscapes are a fascinating crossroads of history and culture.
Karuizawa is also dotted with beautiful villas and cafes, making it the perfect spot to spend some relaxing time.

With the beauty of each season, you can enjoy new discoveries any time you visit.

See monkeys soaking in hot springs at Jigokudani Yaen-koen

Source: https://jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/

Jigokudani Yaen-koen is a rare sightseeing spot where you can see wild monkeys soaking in hot springs up close.

Located in the mountains at an altitude of 850 meters, the park attracts tourists from all over the world, especially in winter when it snows, as the monkeys soak in the hot springs and look adorable.
The monkeys are accustomed to people, and their natural habitat is sure to soothe visitors.
The hiking course to the Monkey Park is also very picturesque, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful nature around them.

Photography is allowed, so don’t forget your camera.
Yudanaka Hot Spring is located at the foot of the park.

Visit the National Treasure Matsumoto Castle

Source: https://www.matsumoto-castle.jp/

Matsumoto Castle, a Japanese National Treasure, is a well-known symbol of Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, and retains the architectural style of the Warring States Period.
The black-lacquered castle tower is also called “Karasu-jo” (meaning “crow castle”), and its beautiful appearance makes it an excellent photo-op.

There are only two castles in Japan with a five-story castle tower, and its rarity attracts tourists from all over the world. The interior of the castle still retains the defense equipment of the time, and there are many points of historical interest.
Visitors can enjoy a different look each season, with cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn leaves in the fall.

Walking through the streets of Tsumago Yado to learn about the streets of old Japan

Source: https://tsumago.jp/

Tsumagojuku, which flourished as an inn town in the Edo period (1603-1867), still retains the atmosphere of those days, offering visitors an experience as if they were stepping back in time.
Old machiya (traditional townhouses) line the streets, and cafes and souvenir stores that have been renovated from old houses welcome tourists.

The Tsumago Yado Honjin and Waki-Honjin Okutani are also historical buildings that are worth seeing. Just by walking around, visitors can feel the air of the Edo period and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the town.
In particular, walking around the town amidst the peaceful scenery is a relaxing experience.

Enjoy skiing and snowboarding in Hakuba

Source: https://www.hakubavalley.com/

Nagano Prefecture is home to some of Japan’s best skiing and snowboarding spots, with Hakuba and Tugaike in particular renowned as popular ski resorts. The pleasure of skiing on good quality snow with the magnificent scenery of the Northern Alps in the background is an irreplaceable attraction.
After skiing, you can also enjoy hot spring baths.

There are also gentle courses for beginners, providing a fun environment for families and beginners. There are also hot spring facilities nearby, so you can heal your body after a long day of skiing or snowboarding in the hot springs. This is a spot filled with the joys of winter.

Conclusion

Nagano Prefecture offers beautiful nature in each of the four seasons, a rich history, and a wide variety of activities, providing a fascinating experience for any traveler.

From a stroll in Karuizawa to a trip to the hot spring monkeys of Jigokudani (Hell Valley), or a journey through history at Matsumoto Castle or Tsumago Inn, there is a wide range of things to do in Nagano.
There are also plenty of seasonal attractions, such as skiing and snowboarding in the winter and cooling off in a summer retreat.

Your time spent in Nagano Prefecture will surely become a special memory.