Take in some of the highlights of Nagano with this engaging tour starting with a visit to Zenkoji Temple – one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Japan - followed by sake tasting and lunch at a nearby restaurant. It's then time to head to the Snow Monkey Park and its world-famous hot spring-bathing monkeys! All led by a locally-based English-speaking guide, this tour is a great way to see the best that Nagano has to offer and get up close and personal with its most famous furry residents!

1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake in Nagano

Defined by its mountains and natural landscapes, Central Japan is the literal heartland of this beautiful country and a road less travelled by many international visitors. This engaging one-day tour takes you to Matsumoto Castle - one of the few remaining original castles in Japan and a registered National Treasure - before heading high into the grandeur of the North Alps and onto the protected alpine oasis of Kamikochi. Led by a locally-based guide and including lunch and direct transport to and from Kamikochi, this tour captures the essence of Central Japan by combining two of its most iconic destinations.

1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle

This adventurous one-day tour combines a visit to the world-famous Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani with morning of fun in the deep powder snow of Shiga Kogen – Japan’s largest ski resort! Including lunch and led by a locally-based, English-speaking guide, this tour follows a simple equation: snow monkeys + lots more snow = big fun in Shiga Kogen!

1-Day Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun in Shiga Kogen Tour

With two pickup points in both Nagano City, this tour takes you to the 'Roof of Japan' and the fabled Snow Walls of the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route. Situated in the dramatic alpine landscape of the Chubu Sangaku National Park, this is one of Japan’s most iconic and unique sights, accessible only in spring and early summer and via a series of different mountain transports. Led by an English-speaking guide, you will be accompanied on every leg of your journey to the 'Roof of Japan' and back down again – the perfect way to experience one of Japan’s more remote and stunning landscapes.

(Spring Only) 1-Day Snow Walls of Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route Tour

On this tour, spend a full-day in Nagano exploring the city and enjoying what this quaint town has to offer. Your English-speaking tour guide will pick you up from your hotel or Nagano Train Station at 8:45 AM. You will either take public transportation (train and bus) or private chartered vehicle around town based on your booking.
Immerse yourself in the city's culture and visit major Nagano attractions such as Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, the famous Zenkoji Temple, Hokusai Museum, Obuse Town, and relax in a traditional onsen/ hot spring (optional).

Private Nagano 1-Day Tour:Snow Monkeys,Zenko-ji,Obuse,Sake,Onsen

Join our tour for a night out to feel like you are residents. Unlike Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, it will be very difficult to find where the locals go to eat and drink in Nagano. Your local expert guides will take you to the nice Izakaya and backstreet bars, such as Jazz bar, Whiskey bar in Nagano city, where you can chill out and drink to continue the evening. 

・More than 5 dishes + Noodles(such as Soba)
・2 Drinks included in tour price
・Local expert, personable English-speaking guides
・Hidden bar and introductions.

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


Izakaya Food Tour in Nagano

Discover the Soul of Nagano through Zenkoji Temple’s History, Local Culture, and Delicious Cuisine

 Duration: 3 hours
 Location: Nagano City, Zenkoji Temple & Surrounding Areas
 Type: Walking Tour

✨　Tour Highlights　✨
1️⃣ Zenkoji Temple Exploration ️
Step into one of Japan’s most historic and spiritual sites!
Discover the ancient beauty of Zenkoji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temples.
Marvel at the intricate wooden architecture and learn about its significance in Japanese Buddhism.

2️⃣ Hidden Stories & Local Legends 
Walk through the temple grounds and nearby streets as your guide shares fascinating stories and local lore.

3️⃣ Delicious Food Tastings 
 Oyaki Dumplings 
 Traditional Japanese Sweets 
 Sake Tasting 

4️⃣ Explore Nakamise Street ️

5️⃣ Interactive Cultural Experiences 
Try your hand at traditional activities, like fortune-telling, and learn about Japanese customs.

 Book Your Tour Today!

Food & Cultural Walking Tour around Zenkoji temple in Nagano

Visit the Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani, named after the plumes of steam shooting out of the ground. Not as scary as it sounds, however, it is a truly memorable experience safe for all ages.

After visiting the Monkeys we offer you an exclusive look into the historic Onsen Village of Shibu. This village was frequented by Samurai, poets, and travellers alike. Good fortune is said to come to those who bathe in each of the Onsens in town.

As you stroll through the narrow streets lined with traditional buildings, some hundreds of years old, you might just get to see some more wild monkeys as they try to scavenge food!

Our professional, experienced, English-speaking staff can offer a bilingual service that ensures peace of mind and an unforgettable day tour to your already memorable holiday in Japan!

Snow Monkey & Shibu Onsen Afternoon Tour (Depart: Iiyama & Nozwa)

Kiso Valley, best known for the Magome and Tsumago traditional villages, is another beautiful spot in the Japanese Alps. With one of the most famous hiking paths in all Japan, we set foot there on our quest for traditional Japan.

Magome and Tsumago are two beautifully preserved traditional villages. This value-packed Nakasendo trail day hike between Magome and Tsumago with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore both of the ancient post towns!

It is about 8 kilometres (5 miles) long and has only gentle elevation changes which takes around 2 hours to easy walk at a leisurely pace.

This private tour is a hiking day tour. Please wear hiking boots and gear for this tour. Public transportation or local taxis maybe used to transfer between sites. Exact transportation costs can be discussed with the guide after a reservation is finalized. Please have Japanese Yen on hand for your transportation costs.

Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide

Starting from Nagano City or any of the Nagano's 5 main ski resorts 
 (Hakuba, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, Myoko Kogen, Madarao Kogen) , we will pick your party up in our private vehicle to take you on your private tour and drop you off back at the pick up location or in Nagano City.
On this tour, you will visit the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park and learn all about what makes the resident monkeys so unique, and enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant and experience Nagano’s renowned food culture.
Guests will also have a chance to stroll the charming streets of the historic town of Obuse, and enjoy viewing its remaining Edo period buildings, as well as explore Zenko-ji, one of Japan’s oldest and most important Buddhist temples, and home to the first known Buddhist statue to be brought to Japan.
A Sake tasting experience with detailed explanations from your guide is also included(non-alcoholic options available).

Private Snow Monkey Tour - Conveniently Resort Hop and Sightsee

Come to Nagano and join this experience to taste one of the best Sake in Japan. The Sake maker we’ll explore has over 300 years history and you will taste the differences between Sakes of the highest quality, unfiltered, unpasteurized, and many other seasonable Sakes. Explore the streets of Nagano and the Zenkoji Temple area, then make your way back to Nagano Station. 

- Taste more than 5 local Sakes including Nagano’s plum wine with nibbles like soy source beans and some Japanese pickles.
- Taste 3 different Amazake(non alcoholic sweet drink)
- You can have Nagano’s miso soup
- Admission free to visit old sake factory
- Explore Nagano’s laid back area around Zenkoji temple to visit some local shops
- Learn and practice authentic Japanese eating style and discover other parts of Nagano
- Connect with local business owners to learn the history and local culture.

Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour

This tour combines a visit to the world-famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park with an afternoon of cherry blossom-viewing at some of Nagano’s best blossom sites. Known as ‘sakura’ in Japanese, the stunning flowers are a must-see for any visitor in spring, with Nagano’s countless blossom trees coming into bloom later than other areas – the perfect activity to combine with your visit to the Snow Monkeys!

Nagano Spring: 1-Day Cherry Blossoms & Snow Monkeys Guided Tour

Jigokudani Yaen-koen is home to hundreds of “snow monkeys”, known as such because they spend their days soaking in the mountainous hot springs. In 1970 they appeared on the cover of Life magazine in the U.S. due to this unique behaviour. Furthermore, in 1998, when the winter Olympic Games was held in Nagano, lots of athletes, media, and tourists from foreign countries visited.

Monkeys don’t soak in the hot spring in the warm season because they bathe in order to prevent from the severe coldness in winter. Soaking in the hot spring is only one part of the monkeys’ life. You can also see them lazing or frolicking on the nearby mountain and forest.

Explore Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park with a Local Guide

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 

Prepare to experience Old Japan on foot with this exciting hike through traditional post towns, ancient forests, and dramatic mountain passes. Starting in Tsumago-juku post town, your guide will explain a bit about what kinds of people traveled the roads in Old Japan, where they were going, and how they lived. You will get a chance to enter some buildings including an old Inn and a horse-stable that perfectly illustrate what your guide has mentioned.

Leaving Tsumago-juku post town, you will start out on an 8km trek to the next post town, passing by roaring waterfalls and quiet hamlets along the way. Keep an eye open for wildlife and wildflowers while you are led by your guide along what was once one of the main avenues of travel in Japan.

Arriving at Magome-juku post town, you will be treated to far off views of fields and mountains as you descend to the bottom of this very vertical village. After having a little time for shopping, you will board the tour vehicle and head back.

1-Day Tour from Matsumoto: Walk the Nakasendo Trail

Ride Shiga offers a variety of ski and snowboard lessons. In addition to standard lessons we are also offering coaching that focus on your area of interest: race/carving, freestyle, freeride(slackcountry) or moguls.


Ski or Snowboard Lesson in Shiga Kogen (4Hours)

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

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

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way toexplore both of the ancient post towns! You can travel between Magome and Tsumago by infrequent direct bus.

Nakasendo was one of the two highways during the Edo period connecting Tokyo with Kyoto, running through the Kiso Valley. Travelers at that time walked along the highway, stopping at "post towns" for rest. Some of those post towns have been well preserved and show tourists today exactly what Japan was like hundreds of years ago. Stunning forests, beautiful villages and traditions, we would love to recommend it to everyone interested in Japanese nature and history.

This private tour is a walking day tour. A private vehicle is not included. Public transportation or local taxis may be used. Exact transportation costs can be discussed with the guide after a reservation is finalized. Please have Japanese Yen on hand for your transportation costs. 

Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide

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

Have ever seen real Wasabi? Discover the Japan’s largest Wasabi Farm!

Nagano Prefecture is the largest producer of wasabi in Japan. Home to many small family-tended plots dotted between the rice fields, rural Azumino – just outside of Matsumoto – also boasts Japan’s largest farm, Daio Wasabi Farm. The farm is a popular tourist friendly destination and is comprised of many large fields with a meticulously maintained network of small streams that constantly provides each wasabi plant with pure clean water. 

Our tour includes a traditional lunch designed to highlight the flavor of real wasabi, served with other local food. Under the branding of “Shinshu” – the old name for Nagano Prefecture – you can enjoy our loved Shinshu soba, Shinshu miso and other tasty treats.

We recommend you try some of the many different Wasabi-flavored products during your visit, such as Wasabi ice cream, Wasabi beer, Wasabi sausages or even a Wasabi burger! 


Wasabi Farm Walking Tour & Lunch

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

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

This tour takes you to the 'Roof of Japan' in summer and autumn to experience in the stunning and lush alpine landscape and one of Japan’s three sacred mountains, Mount Tate. Led by an English-speaking guide, you will be accompanied on every leg of your journey to the Roof of Japan and back down again.

1-Day Tateyama-Kurobe Tour: Walking on the 'Roof of Japan'

The city of Nagano is an intensely beautiful and historic part of Japan, only a stone’s throw away from the capital city of Tokyo. Nagano is a place of incredible Shinto and Buddhist history and home to one of Japan’s most iconic temple and shrine. While many of Japan’s cities lay claim to an identity of nature-meets-human-invention, that atmosphere can be felt in Nagano better than almost anywhere else in Japan.

In this tour, your knowledgeable licensed local guide will accompany you on your journey features an historic districts and even ancient pilgrimages. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize your four-hours special tour that's best for you.

Note*1: You will not be able to visit all the sights on the tour. You must choose 2 to 3 sights and inform your guide.
Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Nagano All Must-Sees 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide

Walking along the 400-year-old lined cedar trees and walking on the frozen lake experience are special experiences that can only be found here.
Let's explore the winter of Togakushi, where mountain ascetic have been practicing the mountain worship since ancient times.

The experience of walking along a row of 400-year-old cedar trees and a frozen lake is a special experience that cannot be found anywhere else. Let's explore the winter of Togakushi, where the trainees have practiced rigorously since ancient times, wearing snowshoes!

 Nagano Snowshoe Hiking Tour

Home to more than eighty ski resorts such as Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, Hakuba, and many more, as well as featuring some of the country’s best powder and terrain – all within easy access of Tokyo and its airports – we consider Nagano to be Japan’s best ski destination. Perfect as a day trip from Tokyo, or just to enhance an already amazing Japan vacation, we’re here to offer a stress free all-inclusive day ski package featuring everything you need to enjoy your day. From transport to the ski resort, rental equipment (including skis or snowboard, poles and boots and bindings, top and bottom wear, gloves, and goggles), lift passes, and even optional lessons, this package is perfect for those who wish to try skiing or snowboarding for the first time or those experienced who want to challenge Japan’s slopes themselves without the hassle of carrying all of their equipment!

1-Day Ski Tour Package from Nagano Station

Enjoy private transportation to Snow Monkey Park in an air-conditioned car
Skip the stress of public transport and book a convenient private transfer
Travel in luxury vehicles
Get dropped off at the closest point to the Snow Monkey Park
Make the most of your trip and arrive to a chauffeured vehicle

Private roundtrip transport: to/from Snow Monkey Park

With over 15,000 individual fireworks lighting-up the crisp autumn sky, Nagano’s annual Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival attracts over 400,000 people to the city to watch this amazing spectacle. As Japan’s largest and most beautiful autumn fireworks display, this tour includes reserved seating at the event with a visit to Nagano’s world-famous Snow Monkey Park – home to the only troop of monkeys in the world known to bathe in hot springs – and late lunch at one of the region’s best restaurants. This once a year tour is one of our most popular and is sure to leave a lasting impression long after the fireworks fade away!

Snow Monkeys Park Tour and  Ebisu-ko Fireworks Fest in Nagano

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

Enjoy a premium small-group tour (typically 6-8 guests, maximum 12), blending nature, culture, and culinary delights. Start your day at Nagano Station and visit the iconic Snow Monkey Park, where you’ll walk through serene forests to see wild monkeys soaking in natural hot springs.

Next, explore the charming town of Obuse, enjoying a delicious local lunch and a sake-tasting session at a historic brewery, sampling two premium sakes. Discover the Hokusai Museum, showcasing masterpieces by Japan’s ukiyo-e legend, and stroll through picturesque streets lined with traditional shops.

For those seeking more, an optional visit to the historic Zenkoji Temple—one of Japan’s most revered Buddhist sites—is available. Walk in the footsteps of centuries of pilgrims and experience its serene atmosphere.

With stunning scenery, cultural experiences, and insights from a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a carefully curated day immersed in Nagano’s nature, art, history, and flavors.

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

Embark on a captivating journey through Nagano, where history, culture, and culinary delights converge. After meeting your guide at Matsumoto Station, step into the past at Matsumoto Castle, a national treasure dating back to the 16th century. Ascend its wooden halls, absorb the ambiance of tatami mat floors, and relish panoramic views from the castle keep, unraveling the tales of feudal Japan.

Continue with a sake-tasting odyssey at a historic brewery run by seasoned owners. Immerse yourself in the nuances of local sake flavors.

Savor 2 street foods (e.g. sweet rice dumplings, taiyaki, oyaki) on the the lively Nawate Street affectionately known as Frog Street.

Delve into history at Nakamachi Shopping Street, an Edo-period avenue adorned with well-preserved merchant houses. Explore quaint shops and cafes, absorbing the echoes of Matsumoto's past.

Reflect on a day filled with Matsumoto's medieval grandeur and modernity as the tour concludes at Matsumoto Station. 


Explore Matsumoto: Castle, Sake & Taste of Local Life

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 

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

We’ll begin with a visit to the famous Snow Monkey Park, where you can watch wild Japanese macaques enjoying a soak in the hot springs—set in the peaceful mountains of Nagano.

After the walk, we’ll head over to the nearby Shibu Onsen area, a beautiful historic hot spring town. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant here, featuring freshly made soba noodles and other regional specialties.

After lunch, you’ll have time to unwind in one of Shibu Onsen’s public baths. The mineral-rich waters are said to have healing properties and offer the perfect way to relax.

And for a bit of extra fun, there’s the chance to collect stamps from different hot springs using a special towel—a local tradition that adds a playful touch to your visit.

Whether you're here to relax, explore, or enjoy good food and drink, this tour offers a great mix of what makes Nagano special.

Optional free pick-up support available upon request.

Our tours start from April 15, 2025.Join us for an amazing experience

Snow Monkey Park, Soba Lunch and Shibu Onsen Tour 

The departure location is selectable from the Iiyama Station, Nozawa Onsen, and Myoko Kogen.

Starting with a visit to the famous Snow Monkey Park. Get up close and watch as the Snow Monkeys relax in the naturally occurring hot springs of Jigokudani. Thanks to the tour's early morning start you will see the Monkeys as exclusively as it gets!

Following this, we will commute to Shibu Onsen town. The first place to stop is Tamamura Honten, a sake & beer brewery established in 1805 attached to a traditional art gallery. 

After that, our guide will offer you insight into the historic Onsen village. This village was once frequented by Samurai, poets, and travellers alike. Good fortune is said to come to those who bathe in each of the Onsen in town.

This section is a walking tour, but if you would prefer to relax in an Onsen, you may do so for just ¥800!

Finally, during green season we visit Kokugonji, a serene and beautifully maintained temple nestled in rural Nakano and founded in 825.

Snow Monkey & Shibu Onsen Private Tour (Nagano, Nozawa, Myoko)

Discover the sacred forests and ancient shrines of Togakushi on this guided walking tour from Nagano. Follow hidden mountain paths lined with towering cedars, visit important Shinto sites like Chusha and Okusha, and hear the legends of Japanese mythology from your local English-speaking guide. Along the way, take in stunning alpine scenery and enjoy a traditional lunch of handmade Togakushi soba noodles, a regional specialty. Depending on the season and conditions, the route may also include quiet forest trails, scenic ponds, or optional cultural stops.

Togakushi: A Serene Walk Through Sacred Forests & Soba Traditions

Begin your morning in Kamikochi, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, clear rivers, and untouched marshlands. Departing early from Matsumoto or Nagano, you'll arrive before the crowds—when the air is crisp and the trails are quiet.

Skip the bus lines with our direct ride in.

Take a 2.5 to 3-hour walk from Kappa Bridge to Taisho Pond, returning via Tashiro Bridge. Forest and riverside paths bring you close to nature, with guide insights along the way. Enjoy lunch at your own pace—on a bench or by the river. Bring something simple—cafés can be crowded.

Later, visit Matsumoto Castle—Japan’s oldest original wooden fortress. Skip the line with pre-booked entry and explore freely.

Guests preferring a later start may begin with the castle, followed by a walk in Kamikochi’s soft afternoon light.

Thoughtfully designed for small groups, this tour blends mountain stillness with cultural depth—ideal for travelers who value calm, beauty, and discovery.



Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle: A Perfect Nature & Heritage Day

The class is held at the over 130 years old house.
It was built in Machiya style and was used to be a house of Shoya, the biggest merchant in the city at that time. You can have a look around the unique inside.
We will show you traditional life style such as Koto, a Japanese harp and an old sawing machine, which have been carefully stored for a long time in Kura, an old style storage in back of the house.

The kitchen is made of Sake barrel lids came from a local brewery.
It’s located on the second floor, you will see the beautiful Japanese garden.

We provide aprons, so you don’t need to bring anything.
We will give you a recipe that you can cook at your country.
The class consists of some basics of Japanese cooking, such as how to make Dashi broth, and introduction of local made ingredients, which are not normally seen at regular supermarkets. We will explain for you to cook at home when you go back.

Recipes are adjustable for vegetarians and vegans.

Japanese Cooking Class at a Traditional House in Nagano

Get to know the city through the eyes of a passionate local. With no set itinerary, you can customize the tour or leave it up to the local for an insightful introduction to the city. Make travel about the people you meet not just the places you see.

Nagano Like a Local: Customized Private Tour

Our snowshoeing tour at the snow-covered Togakushi Shrine is a unique experience available only during a three-month period each year. Togakushi Shrine is a renowned destination for tourists, but without joining a guided tour, navigating the area can be more challenging, and you may miss many attractions while increasing the risks associated with outdoor activities in nature.

To ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and safe experience, we provide multilingual guiding for our clients. Hama and Yuki, both active registered nurses and UIMLA-certified hiking guides, are fluent in English, with Yuki also speaking Mandarin Chinese to assist native Chinese-speaking clients.

We warmly welcome you to this winter wonderland for an unforgettable one-day experience that combines the beauty of authentic Japanese culture with the magic of the snow-covered landscape.

EN/CN Guided Snowshoeing and Snow Monkey Tour in Nagano

Discover Kamikochi, a pristine alpine valley at 1,500m. Walk quiet trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy pure air in a protected sanctuary. Travel smoothly with a private guide, with photos gifted after.

❑ A Special Day in Kamikochi
At 1,500m in the Japanese Alps, Kamikochi is one of Japan’s most beautiful valleys. Walk forest paths and cross bridges as you breathe alpine air. You may glimpse monkeys, stoats, or even a rare Japanese serow. With rivers, clean air, and open views, this vehicle-free sanctuary is a serene escape.

❑ Why Private?
Public transport is slow, crowded, and inflexible, since private cars are restricted. With your own car to the entrance and an English-speaking guide to manage transfers, the journey is smooth and tailored to you.

❑ A Personalized Journey
We guide you to quiet trails, viewpoints, and hidden spots others miss. Wildlife, scenery, and alpine calm are photographed and gifted afterward as memories.

Kamikochi Private Summer Escape: Meet Wildlife in Pristine Nature

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

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

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

You can enjoy to observe lovely wild monkeys bathing in an outdoor hot spring at Snow Monkey Park. Each monkey has different personality and it's quite fun to be able to watch them from very close.
After the monkey park, we are visiting an old Shinto shrine called Togakushi shrine which has been one of the most important place for the mountain worship since ancient era. The shrine and precincts forest are all covered with thick snow during the winter season. However,by snowshoeing, it is the perfect opportunity to discover areas that are inaccessible any other time of the year. Frozen bodies of water and a heavy carpet of snow make otherwise untraversable terrain accessible. I will lead you to these undisturbed areas, so you can explore and appreciate the unspoiled nature around you.
I'm a National Government licensed guide interpreter as well as licensed mountain trekking guide.
Let's have a cup of coffee on the snow made table and chair :)

Nagano Winter Special Tour "Snow Monkey and Snowshoe Hiking"!!

Discover Nagano & Matsumoto on a Fully Customizable Private Tour
A full-day private tour for comfort and authentic local experiences across Nagano, Matsumoto, and nearby regions — your way.

Highlights
Tailor-Made Itinerary
Visit Zenkoji, Togakushi, Snow Monkey Park (Yudanaka–Shibu), Matsumoto Castle, Kamikochi (seasonal), or Daio Wasabi Farm—or let us design your route. Outskirts / cross-city pairings (e.g., Togakushi, Snow Monkeys, Obuse, Kamikochi, Narai-juku, Tateyama Kurobe) may involve a travel supplement; confirmed after booking.

Private Guide & Vehicle
Local English-speaking guide with seamless door-to-door transport in a private vehicle. No crowds, no stress.

Local Culture & Flavors
Stroll nature paths and castle towns, enjoy sake tastings, and savor handmade soba—timed to you.

Ideal for couples, families, and small groups seeking a flexible, meaningful day in Nagano or Matsumoto. Book now.

Private One-Day Everything Tour in Nagano or Matsumoto

A full-day trip to Nagano’s snow monkeys and Togakushi Shrine. With a private car and guide, avoid crowds and enjoy local insights. Photos are captured and delivered after the tour.

❑ A Special Experience
Visit Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, where in winter monkeys soak in hot springs and in summer play in forests and rivers. Then continue to Togakushi, a spiritual retreat with cedar-lined paths and centuries-old shrines. You’ll avoid crowds, discover local spots, and have moments photographed as lasting gifts.

❑ Why Private?
Public transport requires hours and many transfers, while dining options are limited. With a private car and guide, travel is smooth and flexible. The day adapts to your pace, from exploring shrine trails to enjoying a relaxed lunch.

❑ A Personalized Journey
Explore with an English-speaking guide, free from crowds or fixed schedules. Local insights enrich the journey, and each special moment is captured for you to keep.

Jigokudani Snow Monkey and Togakushi Shrine Private Tour

Near the famous Zenkoji Temple, Togakushi Shrine, Nozawa Onsen, and the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, Obuse offers a perfect cultural stop before or after your visit!

Savor a delicious bowl of ramen featuring locally-made miso (vegan ramen available) before stepping back in time at a 240-year-old miso brewery. Learn traditional miso making techniques and create your own 1kg batch of miso to take home. (Your miso will require several months of fermentation before it's ready to enjoy.)

This unforgettable experience is a must for miso lovers and anyone interested in exploring Obuse's rich cultural traditions.

We are happy to accommodate earlier or later start times upon request. If you'd like to further customize the itinerary, please let us know!

Note: Children under 12 make miso with an adult (child price excludes the miso-making fee).

Hands-on History: Make Your Own Miso at a 240-Year-Old Brewery

Guests will journey deep into the hidden region of Nagano known as Akiyamago, a remote mountain valley rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Here, they’ll soak in one of the wildest open-air hot springs in Nagano, where the healing waters bubble up directly from the riverbed — a rare and unforgettable experience.

Important Note:
The outdoor hot spring may be unavailable during bad weather if the river overflows. In that case, we’ll visit a local indoor onsen instead.

The tour also includes a taste of tradition with a hearty bear meat hot pot lunch, called "Kumanabe", a local specialty passed down through generations.

On the way back to Iiyama Station, we’ll stop by a local sake brewery, where guests can enjoy tasting some of Nagano’s finest rice wine.

Akiyamago is usually closed off in winter due to extreme snowfall that even surpasses ski resorts, but we operate guided car tours to this remote area.


A Secret Wild Outdoor Bath Rotenburo experience from NAGANO

Walk Togakushi’s cedar avenue to shrines tied to mountain worship and ninja legends. Enjoy handmade soba at local spots, with smooth travel by private car, guide, and photo memories gifted.

❑ A Special Day in Nagano
Discover the spiritual heart of Nagano on this private tour. Follow the cedar avenue to shrines linked to mountain worship and ninja lore. For lunch, skip crowds and enjoy handmade soba at hidden favorites, a tradition of the region. This journey blends nature, spirituality, and culture in one memorable day.

❑ Why Private?
Because it’s private, the tour fits your pace and interests. Public transport is slow with transfers, and restaurants often crowded. With a private car and English-speaking guide, travel and dining are smooth and stress-free.

❑ A Personalized Journey
Our tours go beyond major sights. We avoid crowds and create local experiences. From walking the cedar path to savoring soba, moments are photographed and gifted afterward as lasting memories.

Togakushi Shrine Private Tour with English Local Guide

Are you a Sake beginner or an expert? 
This Sake brewery private tour brings you not only to the world of Sake but also exclusive cultural experiences. 

I will take you to Ichinoya Sake Brewery, established in 1865, which still produces high quality Sake with traditional methods. You will see the house’s brewing process mostly by human hands with limited mechanicals, which is designated as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2024.

The tour includes;
- Visiting Ichinoya Sake Brewery, discover how Sake is made
- Sake and water tasting
- Lunch with local ingredients over Ichinoya’s series of Sake at Wachigai restaurant, whose building is traditional Machiya style build in late Edo period, with great atmosphere
- Shopping Sake and other local products
- Pictures are taken throughout the tour and shared to the guests

It starts at 11:00am and takes about 2~3 hours including lunch. 
Free after lunch.

This tour can take at most 6 people. Tour is held only once a day.

Sake Brewery Private Tour in Nagano 

This is a guided tour by E-Bike (electric bicycle) between "Shirakaba Lake" and "Tateshina Highland," two major tourist attractions in Chino City. The tour stops at places of interest along the route and introduces the history and geological formations of the area with the help of a guide. At the end of the tour, after a 15-minute stroll through the forest, you will be guided to the "Tateshina Otaki Fall," which suddenly appears, where you will be served a "Yatsugatake Sandwich" from the popular Auberge Terra in Tateshina Highlands.

Ebike Tour in Lake Shirakaba and Tateshina Highland Japan

The opportunity to freely ride an E-Kart (a four-wheeled electric kart similar to a go-kart) on Japan's public roads without a license will be a memory that you will cherish for the rest of your life!

E-Kart Without Driver's License Can be driven on Public roads

・Start the tour with a safe ride along the lakeside bike path to get used to the e-bike's controls.
・Drink the natural water from the lake coming from 200 metres below the ground. Take your own bottle with you on tour if you have one!
・Enjoy a pleasant cycling experience while feeling the highland breezes and mountain views. Our bikes make it easy to ride up even steep hills which looks impossible to climb!
・A downhill section will take you all the way down the Venus Line! Feel like your on a rollercoaster thrill ride that's sure to refresh you!
・Take the bike path through the forest. A spectacular view awaits you. 

Thrilling E-Bike Tour of Nagano

Discover the enchanting Togakushi region during a private winter tour that blends outdoor fun with cultural exploration. Begin your day at the Togakushi Ski Resort, where you can enjoy family-friendly snow activities or take on the slopes for skiing or snowboarding (optional; guest's own expense). Later, venture into the serene cedar-lined trails, visiting the sacred Togakushi Chusha Shrine. This tour allows for pickup at any hotel in Nagano, making it ideal for families and adventure seekers alike. Get ready for a day filled with snow, tradition, and breathtaking views of the Japanese Alps.

- Enjoy snow activities or skiing (optional; guest's own expense) at Togakushi Ski Resort
- Visit the famous cedar tree pilgrimage trail and Togakushi Chusha Shrine
- Private vehicle transport with flexible pick-up/drop-off from major locations in Nagano
- Guided tour in English or Chinese, tailored to your group’s interests

Private Winter Togakushi Tour with Snow Play

Discover the charming Iiyama region in Nagano on this immersive day trip. Visit the stunning Mayumi Takahashi Doll Museum and enjoy a traditional Shojin ryori lunch at Daishoji Temple. Experience the art of sake brewing with a guided tour and tasting at Tanakaya Shuzo, where you’ll learn about the intricate process of sake production. This private tour includes hotel pickup, bullet train travel, and an English-speaking licensed guide, ensuring a personalized experience. Perfect for those interested in culture, history, and gastronomy.

- Private tour with only your group participating
- Hotel pickup and bullet train included for convenience
- Sake brewery tour and tasting experience
- Traditional Shojin ryori lunch provided (for 4+ guests)
- Takahashi Mayumi Doll Museum is closed on Wednesdays, so if you choose Wednesday for your tour date, we will guide you to an alternative location.

Iiyama Temple and Sake Brewery Day Trip from Nagano

This package offers the ultimate winter getaway with a 1-night stay in the beautiful Shigakogen area and a 2-day ski-lift pass to explore the pristine slopes. Enjoy the convenience of ski and snowboard rentals included in the package, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience. Relax in comfortable accommodations with breakfast provided, with each group staying together in a single room. Begin your adventure early with luggage storage and ticket pickup available from 8:00 AM. For added ease, an optional shuttle service between the Nagano area and the hotel lets you focus on enjoying the breathtaking alpine scenery and unforgettable skiing moments.

2 Days, 1 Night in Shigakogen with Lift Pass & Ski Rental Tickets

This tour is a seasonal tour which can be held only in winters. You can have a unique opportunity to enjoy to see monkeys in the hotspring! 
You can enjoy a short hiking before and after the monkey section.
(please wear comfortable shoes.)

This tour would be leaded by national licensed guides, so you can ask anything about the local information, as well.

*The snow monkey season is from December to mid-March each year; it is still possible to see monkeys in April, but there is no snow.

The tour might be changed if the weather condition is not good.

Please note that crampons will be attached to your shoes for this tour because you will be walking on snow-covered trails to meet the snow monkeys. Please be aware of this in advance.

 Snow Monkey and Obuse from Nagano

For just 3 months each year, this natural monument transforms into a mesmerizing frozen masterpiece. We will venture close to the towering icefalls, experiencing their breathtaking beauty while the guide ensures safety in case of unexpected ice falls.

This trip includes an exploration of two sacred waterfalls, revered as objects of worship and the rest at the mountain hut. This remote wonder is accessible by snowcat, taking 30 minutes to reach the trailhead (or 4 hrs on foot).

Led by English-speaking UIMLA Certified guides, along with active registered nurses and/or valid WAFA or DiMM. In addition to its natural beauty, we will uncover the historical significance of this area, cherished by pilgrims and local communities. The region was once a site for sulfur mining, an important resource during World War II.

This tour will be available until March 10th. Clients are required to wear warm attire, similar to skiing gear, including a warm hat, gloves, sunglasses, and a neck warmer.❄️

Yonako Falls Expedition: A Snowshoeing Adventure

1-Day Ski Tour Package Itinerary

1. Departure: Nagano Station – 8:00 AM
Meet your guide at Nagano Station for a hassle-free start.
Board the comfortable shuttle to the slopes.

2. Arrival: Shiga Kogen Olympic Hotel – 9:30 AM
Arrive at the ski resort and receive your ski pass

3. Preparations – 9:40 AM

4. Free Ski Time – 9:40 AM to 5:00 PM
Enjoy a full day of skiing at your own pace on the snow.
Take breaks as needed and savor the beautiful snow-covered scenery.
Lunch is available at the Nagano Olympic Hotel or nearby facilities (not included).

5. Return: Depart from Shiga Kogen Olympic Hotel – 5:30 PM
After an exhilarating day, board the shuttle back to Nagano Station.

6. Arrival: Nagano Station – 7:00 PM
Conclude your tour with arrival at Nagano Station, wrapping up a memorable day on the slopes.

1 Day Ski Tour Package Easy Departure from Nagano Station

This private and customizable tour for Hakuba is ideal for guests who want their trip tailored to their interests and preferences, ensuring they can explore the city at their own speed. With our personalized approach, guests can delve into Hakuba's charm, discovering its unique sights and experiences curated just for them. Whether it's seeking adventure or embracing serenity, our tour caters to every preference, promising an unforgettable journey through Hakuba's wonders.

Private Hakuba Customizable Full Day Tour

Journey across the “Roof of Japan” with a private car and guide, where each moment is captured as a photo gift.

❑ Seasonal Highlights
The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route combines electric buses, ropeways, and trolley buses to reach the 2,450m Murodo Plateau. Each season offers a highlight: 20m snow walls in April–June, cool alpine breezes in July–August, and brilliant foliage in September–October. Closed in winter, each visit is rare.

❑ Why Private?
The route has many transfers and can be complex, but your English-speaking guide manages tickets, timing, and connections. With private car access to the entrance, your trip is smooth so you can focus on the scenery.

❑ A Personalized Journey
Because it’s private, the pace and stops follow your interests. Linger in the Snow Corridor, relax in a café, or take a short hike—your plan adapts flexibly. We avoid crowds and share moments locals know. Treating Japan as a studio, we capture your journey and deliver photos afterward as keepsakes.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route: Private Tour to World's Edge

Ride a bicycle through the forests of the plateau. The eMTB makes it easy to ride on hills and gravel roads, which are a bit difficult for ordinary bicycles. Enjoy a homemade lunch with delicious vegetables such as mini-tomatoes and corn, which are unique to Hara-mura, a highland vegetable production area. Safe and secure tour with two guides and a support vehicle. You can also buy lots of souvenirs during the cycling. Feel the fresh Haramura wind and sunshine.

Private Yatsugatake Highland Guided Electric Bike Tour

Discover Matsumoto Castle and Edo-era Narai-juku on a Private Photo Tour

❑ A Special Day in Nagano
Step back into Japan’s Edo period on this private day tour. Begin at Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s few original castles, a National Treasure. Continue to Narai-juku, a preserved post town on the Nakasendo Trail, where wooden houses, craft shops, and tea stalls line the streets, giving a glimpse of living heritage.

❑ Why Private?
Visiting by public transport means transfers, waits, and little flexibility. With private car and guide, travel is smooth and flexible. Spend more time at the castle, wander Narai-juku’s alleys, or enjoy a tea break—your day adapts to your interests. Lunch at a local spot offers authentic flavors away from crowds.

❑ A Personalized Journey
This is more than famous sights. Each tour reflects your pace, whether history, photography, or food is your focus. Moments are captured with a camera and gifted afterward as memories.

Private Edo Period Tour Matsumoto Castle and Nakasendo Trail

Discover Matsumoto on this full-day tour through Japan’s historic heartland. Explore the black-walled Matsumoto Castle, a rare original fortress with deep samurai history. Visit a 150-year-old miso brewery for a guided tour and onigiri lunch. Stroll Japan’s largest wasabi farm, sampling wasabi ice cream and other treats. Taste local wines at a countryside vineyard, then end the day at the Ukiyo-e Museum, home to a major woodblock print collection. Led by a local guide, this small-group tour offers an authentic Matsumoto experience.

※ Depart from Nagano (8:10) or Matsumoto (9:30). Finish at either station. Luggage accepted only for one-way transfers between Nagano and Matsumoto (advance notice required).

・Matsumoto Castle
・Miso brewery tour & onigiri lunch
・Japan’s largest wasabi farm & local treats
・Local wine tasting in countryside vineyard
・Ukiyo-e Museum print collection
・Start/finish at Nagano or Matsumoto (luggage one-way only, notice required)

Matsumoto Everything Tour: Castle, Miso, Wasabi, Wine & Ukiyo-e

Embark on a captivating journey through Nagano with our exciting join-in tour with a small group (limited to 6-13 people). With a dedicated English-speaking guide, you’ll explore the city, visiting renowned sites such as the Snow Monkey Park, Obuse, Hokusai Museum, and exciting Onsen Experience or Sake Experience.

Join-in Nagano Tour:Jigokudani Monkey Park, Obuse & Sake or Onsen

This private and customizable tour for Hakuba City (in Nagano Prefecture) is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace. 

Discover Hakuba at your own pace on this fully customizable 6-hour part day private tour with an English-speaking (or other language) tour guide. Create a dream tour that’s perfect for your interests and preferences.

After booking, you'll receive a form with varied themes, allowing easy selection based on your interests. Whether it's culture, history, cuisine, nature, or special events, you can highlight your preferences and must-see spots, streamlining our planning process.

Private Hakuba Customizable 6-Hour Tour

A Japanese company with deep local roots.
"Because we’re a Japanese company with deep local roots, our tours connect you with unique, seasonal experiences and insights often accessible only to locals."

Turn travel time into an adventure moments
1：Explore While You Travel to Destination 
2：Your Own Space, Your Own Time
3：Flexible & Customizable Pickup & Drop-off

Local Private Tour to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park

This tour includes a visit to Zenkoji Temple, a historic temple that attracts worshippers from all over the world, as well as a visit to the temple to enjoy local sake and the optional local delicacy oyaki.
Since the Edo period (1603-1867), it has been said, “Even if you are far away, you must visit Zenkoji Temple at least once.” Many famous warlords and other famous warriors have visited the temple, and it continues to be a power spot for worshippers today.
Another attraction of this tour is that you can walk along the approach to the temple, which has a long history, and visit a sake brewery behind the approach to the temple.
You can also sign up for an optional experience to cook and eat “oyaki,” a local dish of Nagano Prefecture, in a traditional hearth.
Oyaki is made of wheat flour and buckwheat flour, with seasonal vegetables and sweet bean paste sandwiched inside the dough.
Those with wheat or buckwheat allergies are not eligible to apply, so please check in advance.

Zenkoji Temple and Sake Tasting Private Tour from Nagano

Experience the best of Nagano with this immersive tour starting from Myoko Kogen and Madarao Kogen. Begin your journey with a visit to the renowned Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, home to Japan’s famous hot spring-bathing monkeys. Afterward, savor a delicious winter lunch before heading to the historic Zenkoji Temple, one of the country's most significant Buddhist sites. Led by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, the tour concludes with a sake tasting, offering a perfect blend of culture, nature, and local flavors.

Myoko and Madarao Day Tour Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji and Sake

The Yatsugatake area flourished most during the Jomon period, when it was prosperous and peaceful for over 10,000 years, and is still a place where people cherish their relationship with nature while making use of the limited blessings of nature. Since ancient times, there have been many people who were skilled at horseback riding, and during the Kamakura period, the jockeys who were in charge of Yabusame events in Kamakura were also people from Suwa.

Hope Lodge, which has been operating at Lake Shirakaba for several decades, has continued to offer horseback riding experiences here for many years and continues to teach many people how to interact with horses. Why not spend some special time in a place rich with nature and get a glimpse of the lives of people who have been working with horses for many years?

Horse riding Experience in Nature Rich Lake Shirakaba

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

The city of Nagano is an intensely beautiful and historic part of Japan, only a stone’s throw away from the capital city of Tokyo. Nagano is a place of incredible Shinto and Buddhist history and home to one of Japan’s most iconic temple and shrine. While many of Japan’s cities lay claim to an identity of nature-meets-human-invention, that atmosphere can be felt in Nagano better than almost anywhere else in Japan.

In this tour, your knowledgeable licensed local guide will accompany you on your journey features an historic districts and even ancient pilgrimages. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize your six-hours special tour that's best for you.

Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.
Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Nagano All Must-Sees 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide

Meet Nagano’s famous snow monkeys. With a private car and guide, avoid crowds and enjoy a personalized journey. Special moments are photographed and delivered as memories.

❑ A Unique and Fascinating Experience
In the mountains of Nagano, wild monkeys soak in hot springs — a rare glimpse into animal life that feels almost human. Each season shows a different charm, from snowy baths in winter to playful scenes in summer. This private tour avoids crowds and creates moments only locals know. With a dedicated camera, every scene is captured and gifted as keepsakes.

❑ Why Private?
Because it’s private, the trip adapts to your pace. Public transport takes hours with transfers, and nearby dining is limited. With a private car and English-speaking guide, travel and meals are smooth.

❑ A Personalized Journey
Free from rigid schedules, you’ll explore with a local guide and private vehicle. Insider stories, flexible timing, and photo gifts ensure a truly special day.

Nagano's Famous Snow Monkeys -Personalized Private Tour

Discover the charm of Obuse through art, history, and sake on this unique Hokusai-inspired Paint & Sip tour.

Starting at Obuse Station, enjoy a leisurely walk through the picturesque town before visiting the historic Matsubaya Sake Brewery for a guided tour and tasting of local sake (note: the legal drinking age in Japan is 20 years old).

Next, explore the Hokusai-kan Museum, home to masterpieces by the legendary ukiyo-e artist who spent his final years in Obuse.

The highlight of the tour is a guided Paint & Sip session, where you’ll create your own version of The Great Wave off Kanagawa while sipping sake made just steps away (note: on-alcoholic beverages also available).

Whether you're an art lover, sake fan, or curious traveler, this hands-on experience blends creativity, culture, and fun. The tour ends back at Obuse Station, leaving you with unforgettable memories and your own wave to take home.

Paint & Sip in Hokusai’s Town: Sake and Art Tour

After walking with a guide along the Yokoya Gorge Trail, a popular trekking route on the Tateshina Plateau, you will then take an electric bicycle (e-bike) on a cycle tour along the 'Marchen road'. 

Tateshina highland Trekking and Ride

Explore Obuse's cultural and rural charms on a leisurely, half-day self-guided cycling tour. This tour is self-guided, but if you'd prefer a guide, book a guided tour through the options. This tour is seasonal, available from April to November.

After walking around the town, rent a bicycle and go cycling.
Visit the Gansho-in Temple, home to Hokusai’s awe-inspiring Phoenix ceiling painting, and enjoy a picnic lunch under the apple trees at Kobayashi Farm—an unforgettable way to experience Obuse’s orchard culture. (Note: if you join us for the afternoon tour, we will have the picnic lunch first.)

The tour ends back at the station with plenty of scenic memories in tow. This tour is perfect for travelers looking to combine gentle activity, cultural discovery, and fresh air in a beautiful countryside setting.

Caution: Obuse experiences intense summers, so always carry water to prevent dehydration, as well as a pair of sunglasses.

Explore Hidden Japan: Obuse Bike Tour & Orchard Picnic

This is a special lunch experience only available on this day, with part of the space with a spectacular view by Lake Shirakaba reserved for private use. A sommelier who runs a wine shop in Shimosuwa, Nagano Prefecture, will be your host, and you can enjoy a one-plate meal made with the bounty of the Yatsugatake mountains, paired with local liquor and soft drinks, mainly wines from Nagano Prefecture.

Lunch at the Lake Shirakaba with its superb views

Join us for a fun and relaxing day discovering the charm of Tsubame Onsen and the stunning Lake Nojiri! You’ll get to soak in soothing hot springs, enjoy a tasty local lunch, and take in the beautiful natural scenery that makes this region so special. It’s the perfect chance to slow down, refresh, and experience authentic Japanese countryside vibes.

We want you to feel comfortable and stress-free, so we offer a free pick-up service from Iiyama, Yudanaka stations, and nearby hotels. But no worries if you prefer to meet us directly at the tour starting point — it’s totally up to you! Either way, we’ll make sure you have a memorable and enjoyable day.

Come join us and see why this tour is a favorite for visitors wanting to experience something truly peaceful and refreshing!

Tsubame Onsen & Lake Nojiri: Nature Walk and Lunch Tour

On this guided tour, you are visiting the primitive forest in Myoko-Togakushi renzan National Park.

The guide is a national licensed English translator guide as well as a licensed trekking guide.
You will learn a lot about the history, nature, and the local culture of north Nagano.

After the snow melt in late April, lots kind of flowers ( so called spring ephemeral) start to bloom on the ground of the forest.
In July to August, it's the best place for avoiding the summer heat, and in fall, the leaves change its color to the gorgeous autumn colors.

The forest in here are mostly the mix of beech, oak, and many other broadleaf trees.
Some of those trees are more than 400 years old..
In the forest, you may also find a charcoal kiln or a small shinto shrine from olden times.
Even in this deep mountainous area, people used to live and use the forest for their lives since ancient times.

Let's explore the north Nagano's hidden gem together.


Full Day North Nagano Hiking Experience

Escape the crowds and enjoy a traditional Japanese onsen without tattoo restrictions. In peaceful Togura, this welcoming hot spring invites all guests to soak in mineral-rich waters known for their healing benefits. The natural spring water relieves stress, soothes muscles, and promotes well-being, making it a perfect retreat.

This tattoo-friendly onsen offers a stress-free, inclusive experience. Whether you have small or large tattoos, you can fully relax and enjoy Japan’s bath culture without worry. Your English-speaking guide ensures you feel comfortable with onsen etiquette. From proper cleansing before entering to unspoken bathing rules, your guide helps you experience the onsen like a local.

For those interested, an optional walking tour through Togura’s historic streets reveals its onsen culture and history. Stroll past hidden gems and traditional shops, discovering Togura’s bathhouse heritage. Escape, relax, and enjoy an authentic onsen experience.

Explore Deep Nagano: Tattoo-Friendly Onsen Tour in Togura

Explore the rich history of Zenkoji Temple, a 1,400-year-old site nestled in Nagano City. Walk along the ancient stone paths trodden by pilgrims and Samurai, immersing yourself in the spiritual essence of Japan. Then, transform into a Samurai apprentice in a traditional setting, where a Master Samurai instructor will guide you through katana techniques and postures. Dressed in a yukata and hakama, enjoy striking poses and learn the art of the warrior in an atmosphere that feels like stepping into a Samurai film. Capture unforgettable moments with photos and videos, ensuring this unique experience stays with you long after you leave.

Nagano Zenkoji Temple and Samurai Experience

Join us on a journey unlike any other with our exclusive private tour of Azumino (Matsumoto), led by an experienced local guide deeply knowledgeable in the area's culture and history.

We will delve into Azumino's rich religious heritage. From ancient shrines to sacred temples, each site holds secrets waiting to be discovered.

This tour will also allow you to enjoy the picturesque view of Azumino with lush forests to mountainscapes.

We will take you to the different locations by car, allowing you to visit places that would take a long time to reach on foot, and customize the tour to meet your areas of interest.

The tour is accompanied by an interpreter.

Private Guided Half Day Tour Visit in Nagano 

A local guide who loves Tateshina will take you to the best local scenery.
You can leisurely cycle around this area while enjoying the rich sound and scenery of the water provided by Mt. Yatsugatake.
(For Tateshina Otaki Course) You can walk through a fantastic virgin forest.
(For the rice terrace course) You can also tour an agar factory that takes advantage of the local climate and get a glimpse of the unique way of life in this area.
(For Otome Falls course) You can enjoy the negative ion water spray of Otome Falls up close.
This is an overseas-style E-bike suitable for the terrain of this region. You can rest assured that you can row easily even on slopes without breaking a sweat.

E-bike Tour through Forests and Springs on a 1000m Plateau

Kimono Experience
We have many types of traditional clothing, from flashy samurai outfits to antique kimonos. our Kimono dressing is quick and easy compared to other types of kimonos. After the scheduled activities in the tour, you can enjoy the town of Zenko-ji and its surroundings. There are fun dining spots and activities nearby.

Making a Strap
Let's make a strap with colors and shapes perfect for exploring Zenko-ji. Making a strap is a mindful activity which is like a Japanese meditation. After making the strap, we will purify it on a crystal.

We use "TonboDama" which is Japanese beads made of glass witch has many types for making accessories.



Private Nagano Kimono Experience 

In this activity, participants can interact with locals and learn about traditional Japanese food culture through the hands-on experience of making onigiri. 

This easy-to-make dish allows you to enjoy different flavors and fillings unique to each household. By using fresh local ingredients, such as Shinshu salmon or seasonal vegetables, you can create an even more special dish. 

Onigiri-making can be an enjoyable experience for adventure-seeking travelers and families alike.


Private Onigiri Experience in Japan

! Become a ninja and ski down the slopes!
Enjoy skiing while experiencing Japanese culture! Ninja-themed ski wear will give you a special experience on the slopes just for you. The designs are fun for both adults and children, making it the perfect memory of your trip to Japan!
It's also very popular for posting photos on social media.

 Rentals Included for 3 Day Japanese Snow Getaway

Starting from the shores of Lake Shirakaba, you cycle with a guide on a fashionable e-Bike along the Kirigamine Venus Line with its spectacular views from the Yatsugatake Mountains to Mt.Fuji.

Before setting off, a safety course is given, so even first-time e-bike riders can feel at ease.
You can also start the tour by refilling your bottle of clean spring water at a spring water spot by Lake Shirakaba early in the tour.

This is a special guided tour where you can experience the rich nature of Lake Shirakaba and the Yatsugatake Mountains first-hand. The views are so spectacular that you will want to take photos.

At Kurumayama-kata highland, halfway along the Kirigamine, you can get off the e-Bike and have a relaxing time at a café on the plateau. This tour is a great way to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Kirigamine.

Kirigamine Guided E-bike Tour

Sacred Streets, Historic Zenkoji Temple and Nagano’s Hidden Corners. Discover the soul of one of Japan’s most sacred cities with our local guide

Follow a path that leads you deep into the city’s past. This isn’t just a walk. It’s a cultural journey once shared by monks, pilgrims, and samurai. From the sacred grounds of Zenkoji Temple to atmospheric backstreets lined with old storehouses, a historic sake brewery, and local shops, the tour uncovers sides of Nagano that most travelers miss.

Nagano Zenkoji Temple Town Walking Tour and Oyaki Tasting

You will spend a special time floating in a canoe in the midst of nature at Lake Shirakaba, located at an altitude of 1450m.
Take a canoe to the headwaters of Lake Shirakaba and experience the coldness of the water directly.
Head to a local shrine affiliated with Suwa Taisha to learn more about the history and beliefs of the area.

Guided Canoe Tour to the Springs and Highlands of Shirakaba Lake

The primeval forest covered in fresh moss looks just like the world of a Ghibli movie! It's a mysterious and mysterious space.
You can sharpen your five senses and refresh yourself while bathing in the negative ions of Tateshina Otaki and Taki-no-Yukawa. You can feel a lot of natural energy.
Yoga instructor Chihaya Dan will give a lecture, and you will meditate in nature and experience time ``spending time in nature without thinking about anything.''

Meditation Experience in Nature with Primeval Forest and Springs 

The Aikido Experience Class is a program where travellers visiting Japan can easily experience the traditional Japanese martial art "Aikido". We provide a place for tourists to experience Japanese culture while having fun learning. Not only can you experience Aikido, but we also provide matcha and tea sweets services after practice. It is also possible to appreciate and purchase antiques and art.
We support multiple languages using a translation app.

Experience Aikido in Nagano City Matcha and Artistic Hospitality

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

Come with us and experience the seasonal beauty of Iiyama’s Cherry Blossoms as we show you the beautiful sights, including their own Cherry Blossom festival in the Castle Ruins. Let us show you our handpicked scenic locations on the way to Nozawa Onsen, and experience Nozawa the local way.

With different locations available depending on the date and season, let us handcraft your perfect morning.

Afternoon tours are also available to see the snow monkeys of Japan at Jigokudani directly after finishing the morning tour, allowing your day to continue after lunch in Nozawa!



Iiyama Castle Cherry Blossom and Nozawa Onsen Morning Tour

At YUDANAKA BREWERY COMPLEX U, you can relax in a spacious private room in an open-air bath of natural hot spring water. Enjoy YUDANAKA BREWERY's original craft beer.

Take a dip in the Aburaya Tosen hot springs at "YUDANAKA BREWERY COMPLEX U", an 8-minute walk from Yudanaka Station.

Enjoy a private room all to yourself. Relax on a comfortable sofa or chair, read a book at the table, chill your beer in the refrigerator, drink tea from a beautiful tea set, or relax on the terrace. Amenities include towels, bathrobes, shampoo, conditioner, body soap, hairbrush, toothbrush, and razor.

Yudanaka Onsen Experience with Craft Beer near Monkey Park

Visit Snow Monkey Park, one of the most famous sightseeing spots in Nagano, on your bike at your own pace.
Watch monkeys bathing in hot springs and playing on the riverbed up close as long as you want.

Bikerentals are the best way if you looking for an exiting and unforgettable activitiy.
You can enjoy not only the park also the nature and scenery of Nagano on the way while planning your itinerary.

We are the only bikerentals shop that offer cross bikes, Ebikes, and road bikes made by Trekbikes in Obuse and the closest store to Nagano Station.
Bikes for the tall are available.
You can get helpful safety and route tips from our local cyclist staff.


Bike Rentals in Nagano to Explore Snow Monkey Park.

Be amazed by the surprising background and history that makes Chino City the top producer of agar in Japan! Receive a guided tour through the workshop, with staff providing easy-to-understand explanations.

Explore the rich water resources that contribute to delicious miso and sake in the Suwa-Chino area, embodying the wisdom of predecessors who shaped Japan's traditional cuisine.

Conclude the experience with a tasting of agar, as Irise Co., Ltd. shares various ways to incorporate agar into different dishes, driven by the concept of promoting health and happiness for everyone.

Agar Factory Tour and Tasting Experience at Chino City

Discover the unique charm of "morinohatake" and immerse yourself in our blueberry picking adventure:

- Enjoy Unlimited Picking: Pick and taste as many blueberries as you like directly from the bush in our lush fields.

- Savor Fresh Delights: Indulge in freshly made blueberries, serve soft and gelato at our on-site café—a sweet treat straight from the farm.

- Relax Amidst Nature: Unwind on our scenic Wind Terrace, relax in a hammock, and enjoy the breathtaking views of Nagano’s highlands.

- Ideal for All: Perfect for families, couples, and friends looking for a fun and relaxing day out.

- Unique Souvenirs: Take home delicious blueberry products from our farm shop.

Book your visit to "morinohatake" now for a delightful day of berry picking, scenic relaxation, and gourmet treats!

Blueberry picking and picking experience garden

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!

Experiences in Matsumoto, Japan