3-Day Classic Nagano Itinerary - Snow Monkeys, Ancient Castles, and Nakasendo Hiking

Where Is Nagano Japan?

Nagano Prefecture is located in the heart of Honshu (mainland Japan), and is one of Japan’s few landlocked regions. It is boarded by 8 prefectures, including Niigata and Toyama to the north, Gunma to the east, Gifu to the west, and Yamanashi and Shizuoka to the south. Nagano is one of the most mountainous and snowiest regions of Japan, home to the Northern Japanese Alps and numerous ski resorts such as the famous Hakuba. The 1998 Winter Olympics put Nagano on the global map, and its reputation as a winter sports paradise remains strong today.

Tip: For a more general idea of things to do in Nagano, check out our picks for the Best Things to Do, See, and Eat in Nagano Prefecture!

How to Get to Nagano from Tokyo

Nagano is easily accessible from Tokyo, making it a convenient addition to Japan itineraries. The Hokuriku Shinkansen bullet train runs directly from Tokyo Station to Nagano, stopping at popular Nagano destinations like Karuizawa (approx. 1 hour) and Nagano City (approx. 1 hour 20 mins).

For those planning multiple train rides in Nagano, passes such as the JR East Pass (Nagano, Niigata area) or the Hokuriku Arch Pass provide cost-effective options with unlimited travel.

Day 1: A Blend of Retro and Modern Japan in Karuizawa

Kicking off our classic Nagano itinerary is Karuizawa, a bustling resort town first popularized in the Meiji period (1868-1912) by a Canadian missionary to Japan, who was impressed by the incredible scenery, pleasant climate, and therapeutic atmosphere. Today, Karuizawa continues to serve as an escape from Tokyo’s blistering summer, and its natural beauty, historical architecture, and up-scale shopping malls makes it a hip destination.

Old Karuizawa Ginza Street

Access:
・Car: 5-minute drive from Karuizawa Station. There are several parking lots around the area.
・Public Transport: 25-minute walk from Karuizawa Station. Or approx. 4-minute bus ride on the Kusakaru Bus from Karuizawa Station, get off at the Kyu-Karuizawa bus stop.

Along with being a modern holiday destination, Karuizawa has a history of accommodating travelers since the era of samurai and shogun. It was once an important checkpoint on the Nakasendo Road that connected Tokyo and Kyoto during the Edo Period (1603–1868), keeping travelers fed and bedded on their long journey through the mountains. Today, the 750-meter Ginza Street continues to exude a retro atmosphere, with several of its standing shops boasting over a century of business. This is blended with a lineup of quaint bakeries, cafes, and stores of all kinds to tour at your leisure.

Along the way, you’ll come across the Karuizawa Kanko Kaikan, a two-storied wooden information center that oozes classic charm. The first floor provides information about Karuizawa, including a topographical map, while the second holds the Karuizawa Railway Mini Museum. Continuing to the end of Ginza Street, the hustle and bustle gives way to a serene forest hiding the Shaw Memorial Chapel, a humble wooden tribute to the aforementioned Canadian missionary.

For a touch of Karuizawa-style luxury on the way, be sure to walk down the sleek Church Street shopping mall. A stone’s throw away is also St. Paul's Catholic Church, built in 1935 and designed by famous American architect Antonin Raymond.

Lunch: Boulangerie Asanoya

Access: 5-minute walk from the Kyu-Karuizawa bus stop.

The Boulangerie Asanoya bakery captures the essence of Karuizawa's cosmopolitan charm. Originally founded in 1933 in Tokyo and made popular due to nearby foreign embassies, this quaint bakery opened a branch in Karuizawa in 1940 to serve the seasonal influx of tourists, and is still in business today.

Boulangerie Asanoya’s bestselling dishes are its many varieties of hearty stone oven-baked bread, while the beef stew is also popular for dipping. For dessert, the irresistible aroma of its cakes and pies is enough to pull anyone in off the street. Boulangerie Asanoya is also famous for its annual apple pie festival, started as a mouthwatering way to support local farmers.

The Historic Mikasa Hotel

Access:
・Car: 6-minute drive from Karuizawa Station.
・Public Transport: From the Kyu-Karuizawa bus stop, take the Kusakaru bus to Mikasa (approx. 4 mins).

During the Meiji era (1868-1912), architecture in Japan transitioned from traditional Japanese to Western. The Historic Mikasa Hotel is a prime example of this fascinating evolution. Designed by renowned architect Okada Tokitaro, this opulent Western-inspired hotel opened in 1906 fitted with modern appliances, electricity, and other cutting-edge facilities for the time, becoming known as “Karuizawa’s Rokumeikan,” in reference to a building in Tokyo that also represented Westernization.

Today, visitors can explore the Mikasa Hotel in all of its preserved majesty. Its gorgeous exterior is worth viewing alone, while inside is a network of grand halls and spacious rooms adorned with brick fireplaces, antique wooden furniture, and plenty more.

*The Historic Mikasa Hotel is currently closed for renovations. It is scheduled to reopen autumn 2025. Please confirm the latest information before visiting.

Shiraito Falls

Access:
・Car: 13-minute drive from Karuizawa Station.
・Public Transport: From the Mikasa bus stop, take the Kusakaru bus to the Shiraito Waterfall bus stop (approx. 15 mins).

Alongside magnificent architecture, the pride of Karuizawa is its abundance of nature. At the crux of this is the serene Shiraito Waterfall and its pristine forested surroundings. Literally meaning “white threads,” the fall’s slender streams stretch over 70 meters wide, giving the impression of a white curtain made of flowing water and mist.

Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza

Access: Return to Karuizawa Station, walk 3 minutes.

Being a prestigious resort town, it’s no surprise that Karuizawa has ample shopping to satiate cashed-up visitors from Tokyo. And there’s nowhere better—or more convenient—than Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza.

A hop away from Karuizawa Station, this swanky open-air mall has around 240 shops consisting of restaurants, apparel, footwear, sports gear, jewelers, and more, spread out over lush parkland with its very own lake to boot. You’ll find beloved international and Japanese brands, including outlet and factory-direct shops, and the breezy, relaxed vibe makes it a pleasant place to spend time even for those on a budget.

Recommended Hotel in Karuizawa: The Prince Karuizawa

Day 2: Snow Monkeys and the Road to Zenkoji Temple

Jigokudani Monkey Park

Access:
・Car: Approx. 1.5-hour drive from Karuizawa to the Jigokudani Yaen Koen Free Parking Lot. Then a 30-minute walk to the park.
・Public Transport: Take a 30-minute ride on the Hokuriku Shinkansen bullet train from Karuizawa Station to Nagano Station. From Nagano Station, take the Nagaden Snow Monkey Express Bus to the Snow Monkey Park bus stop, then walk 30 minutes to the park. You can find the Express Bus at Bus Stop 23, outside of Nagano Station East Exit.

You knew this was coming: you’re on your way to Nagano’s famous Snow Monkey Park! The sight of these adorable macaques warming up in a natural hot spring is what cameras were made for. Snap away, but however tempting it may be to interact with the monkeys, do not get too close.

Ideally, the best season for the Monkey Park is in winter, as it’s the only time the monkeys will bathe, but you can still spot monkeys frolicking about in the greener months. Afterwards, if you have time, enjoy a refreshing soak in the natural hot springs at nearby Yudanaka Onsen or Shibu Onsen.

Tip: Learn everything you need to know about the Jigokudani Monkey Park with our complete guide.

Lunch: Bocchi

Access: Return to Nagano Station, and walk 3 minutes.

Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, backtrack to Nagano Station and stop in at Bocchi for some delicious soba noodles. But this is not just any soba, the very name “Bocchi” refers to the unique local way of preparing the soba by hand that originated in Nagano’s Togakushi area, served in five bound bundles representing five local gods. As the restaurant owner is a Togakushi local, you’ll be treated to some of the finest soba in Nagano Prefecture.

Bocchi’s affordable soba lunch sets also come with tasty rice bowls and tempura options, as well as a bevy of surprising local delicacies such as horse sashimi.

Zenkoji Nakamise Street

Access:
・Car: 7-minute drive from Nagano Station. There are several paid parking lots nearby.
・Public Transport: 25-minute walk from Nagano Station. Or take the Nagano City Circular Bus “Gururin-go” to the Zenkoji Daimon bus stop (approx. 10 mins).

Now it’s time to uncover the centerpiece of Nagano City: Zenkoji Temple. But before arriving at the temple, be sure to leave time to explore Zenkoji Nakamise Street, the bustling temple approach.

Commerce has been flowing through Nakamise Street since ancient times, but it truly took off after 1694 when Zenkoji Temple’s main hall was relocated here, attracting merchants and street vendors serving pilgrims.

Marked by the towering Niomon Gate, built in 1750, Nakamise Street is today a vibrant mix of traditional and modern shops abuzz with domestic and international visitors. You’ll find plenty of local desserts and snacks to munch on after lunch, and be able to shop for traditional souvenirs, crafts, clothes, and more. Plus, if you haven’t had lunch yet, there are several renowned casual restaurants along Nakamise Street open most of the day.

Zenkoji Temple

Access: 5-minute walk down Zenkoji Nakamise Street

Boasting a history of around 1,400 years, the awe-inspiring Zenkoji Temple has long been one of Nagano’s most iconic landmarks. Past the enormous Sanmon Gate appears the Main Hall, whose current iconic double-thatched-roof structure was completed in 1707 after being rebuilt numerous times following fires. While it cannot be viewed, Zenkoji Temple is the home of the first Buddhist statue ever brought to Japan from overseas, all the way back in the year 552.

The Main Hall of Zenkoji Temple is split into several sections including an outer and inner sanctuary, and an inner shrine to quietly observe. Be sure to check the statue of Binzuru, said to heal by touching it in the same place as your own ailments.

Recommended Hotel in Nagano City: Jizokan Matsuya Ryokan

Day 3: The Majesty of Matsumoto Castle and the Nakasendo Trail

Nawate Shopping Street

Access:
・Car: Approx. 1 hour 20 minute drive from central Nagano City to Matsumoto.
・Public Transport: From Nagano Station, take the Limited Express Shinano train bound for Nagoya Station for 50 minutes and get off at Matsumoto Station.

After arriving at Matsumoto Station, a 10-minute jaunt takes you across the Metoba River and onto Nawate Street. This lively pedestrian precinct is lined by beautiful old buildings containing quirky shops selling stationery, antiques, toys, and all manner of sweets and snacks.

While strolling, you’ll no doubt notice a bunch of frog statues around youーthe symbol of Nawate Street is a frog! The street even hosts the Matsumoto Frog Festival in summer, dedicated to preserving the memory of frogs that once populated the Metoba River.

After exploring Nawate Street, be sure to continue onto Nakamachi Street, where rows of traditional white-walled plaster storehouses will transport you even further back in time.

Matsumoto Castle

Access: 5-minute walk from Nawate Street

Like Zenkoji Temple in Nagano City, the crowning gem of Matsumoto is the incredibly well-preserved Matsumoto Castle. This majestic 5-tiered, 6-story flatland castle is the oldest of its kind in Japan, and is one of just 12 Japanese castles that have remained intact without reconstruction since the Edo Period.

Matsumoto Castle’s current tower was completed in 1594 at the end of the Warring States Period (1467-1568), establishing Matsumoto as a thriving castle town. Like many Japanese castles, it faced the threat of being torn down amidst the turmoil of the Meiji Restoration, but was saved by locals who stood up for its preservation.

Its imposing, darkly-colored exterior, with the breathtaking Northern Alps in the background and bright vermillion bridge in front, makes it one of Japan’s most photogenic landmarks. After strolling around the beautiful inner and outer moat gardens, enter the castle tower to inspect its architecture up close.

Lunch: Matsumoto Karaage Center

Access: 15-minute walk from Matsumoto Castle (heading back to Matsumoto Station)

“Karaage” Japanese fried chicken is one of the most popular dishes with international tourists, and the Matsumoto Karaage Center is a mecca for chicken lovers seeking a new spin. This restaurant, right next to Matsumoto Station, is a convenient spot for a final meal before heading off to the Nakasendo, and its many awards, including consecutive gold at the National Fried Chicken Grand Prix, ensures a reliably tasty feast.

We recommend Sanzoku-yaki, a Matsumoto specialty of chicken strips marinated in a special sauce, coated with potato starch, and fried until crispy and golden. If you’re not into chicken, the hefty menu is full of other equally mouthwatering morsels like Japanese-style curry, ramen, and soba.

Hiking the Nakasendo

Access:
・Car: Approx. 55-minute drive from Matsumoto Station to Narai Station.
・Public Transport: Approx. 45-minute ride from Matsumoto Station on the Chuo Main Line to Narai Station, or 50 minutes to Yabuhara Station.

The Nakasendo is an ancient mountain trail that runs through Nagano Prefecture from Tokyo to Kyoto. Along the route, a series of post towns popped up to accommodate travelers, including the centuries-old Narai in the picturesque Kiso Valley. Thanks to its remote location, Narai has escaped modernization to preserve its former glory, showcasing the architecture and atmosphere of the peak Edo Period. The kilometer-long stretch of wooden lattice townhouses even earned it the name “Narai Senken,” meaning the Thousand Houses of Narai.

To walk in the shoes of Nagano’s ancestors, we recommend slipping into the past on a 6-kilometer trek between the two post stations of Yabuhara and Narai, which takes about 3 hours to complete. Best of all, this trail runs between Yabuhara Station and Narai Station, so you can hike one way and catch the train back the other.

To avoid hiking with luggage, book a night at BYAKU Narai and drop your bags off beforehand, or use the luggage drop off service at the Tourist Information Center in Narai Station (open until 4:00 pm) or the station coin lockers. The train ride between Yabuhara Station and Narai Station takes just 5 minutes, but be sure to check the timetable in advance to make sure you don’t miss it.

Recommended Hotel in Narai: BYAKU Narai

Since you’ll be exhausted from your busy day of sightseeing and hiking, bed down for the night at BYAKU Narai, one of Narai’s most enchanting inns. While it has the warm tones of a historic ryokan, this is a 5-star facility that seamlessly merges traditional aesthetics with contemporary comforts.

BYAKU Narai consists of 16 spacious rooms spread across four renovated buildings, all with distinctive architecture and histories. It also has its own restaurant, bathhouse, and art gallery, ensuring guests are well-fed and entertained!

3-Day Adventure in Nagano Prefecture

This 3-day Nagano itinerary covers the best of Nagano, starting at the swanky resort town of Karuizawa and continuing onto the snow monkeys and temples in Nagano City, the ancient architecture of Matsumoto, and the pristine nature and preserved streetscapes on the Nakasendo. Of course, there’s plenty more to see in Nagano Prefecture, like the skiing paradise of Hakuba and the magnificent Suwa Lake, so don’t hesitate to plan an extended stay!

Top image: PIXTA