Nagano: Japan’s Hidden Sanctuary of Serenity and Wellness
Escape the Crowds: Immerse Yourself in Pristine Nature, Healing Hot Springs, and Spiritual Retreats
As Japan's tourism numbers surge to record heights, I’ve seen all the headlines about overcrowding in Kyoto's Gion district and Tokyo's Shibuya Crossing. But Japan's true magic often lies in its lesser-explored regions, where tradition, nature, and modern convenience blend seamlessly.
Starting today, I’ll taking you on a journey to discover Japan's hidden treasures that offer both cultural richness and wellness opportunities.
Our first destination? Nagano Prefecture—a paradise of pristine mountains, healing hot springs, and spiritual sanctuaries that hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics yet remains refreshingly authentic and uncrowded. Nagano offers a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an escape from the bustling city life.
Getting to Nagano: Your Gateway to the Japanese Alps
Reaching Nagano is effortless. The Hokuriku Shinkansen whisks you from Tokyo Station to Nagano City in just 80-90 minutes. Once there, efficient local trains and buses connect you to major attractions.
A Destination for All Seasons
Nagano transforms beautifully throughout the year:
🌸 Spring (March-May): 10-20°C, perfect for cherry blossom viewing
☀️ Summer (June-August): 20-30°C, offering cool mountain air and low humidity
🍁 Autumn (September-November): 8-20°C, with vibrant fall foliage for hiking
❄️ Winter (December-February): -5-5°C, prime ski season
Top 5 Must-Visit Places in Nagano
1. 🏯 Zenko-ji Temple: A Spiritual Journey Through Time
Founded over 1,400 years ago, Zenko-ji Temple houses Japan’s first-ever Buddhist statue and remains a major pilgrimage site. Visitors can experience the O-asaji morning ritual and walk through a pitch-black underground passage to find the “Key to Paradise,” believed to grant enlightenment.
2. 🐵 Jigokudani Monkey Park: Snow Monkeys in Their Natural Spa
Jigokudani Monkey Park is the only place in the world where wild Japanese macaques bathe in natural hot springs, creating an unforgettable winter spectacle. A scenic 30-minute forest hike leads to the park, offering breathtaking views before encountering these unique snow-loving monkeys.
3. 🏰 Matsumoto Castle: The ‘Crow Castle’ of Japan
Matsumoto Castle, nicknamed “Crow Castle” for its striking black exterior, is one of Japan’s few remaining original castles from the 16th century. Inside, steep wooden staircases and panoramic mountain views transport visitors back to the samurai era.
4. 🏞 Kamikōchi: A Hidden Paradise for Nature Lovers
Often called the “Japanese Yosemite,” Kamikōchi is a stunning alpine valley with crystal-clear rivers and breathtaking mountain views. In winter, its snow-covered trails make it a peaceful retreat for hiking, snowshoeing, and wildlife spotting.
5. ⛷ Nozawa Onsen: A Ski Town Steeped in Tradition
Nozawa Onsen is a quaint, historic hot spring village with a deep cultural heritage dating back over 1,000 years. After a thrilling day on the slopes, visitors can explore the town’s 13 free public onsen (soto-yu), each with unique mineral properties believed to promote health and relaxation.
Skiing in Nagano: A Winter Wonderland Awaits
From late November to early May, Nagano’s legendary ski resorts come alive with some of the world’s best powder snow.
🎿 Why Ski in Nagano?
✅ World-Class Resorts: Hakuba Valley and Nozawa Onsen offer slopes for all skill levels
❄️ Unmatched Snowfall: Over 10 meters of fresh powder each season
🛀 Cultural Immersion: Soak in traditional hot springs (onsen) after a day on the slopes
Perfect Itineraries for Your Nagano Escape
Now that you know what makes Nagano special, here are some sample schedules that blend culture, nature, and wellness to make the most of your time in Nagano.
Day 1
Morning – Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano (80-90 min).
Late Morning – Visit the historic Zenko-ji Temple and explore its sacred halls.
Afternoon – Walk through Matsumoto Castle, then enjoy a local soba lunch.
Evening – Stay at a traditional ryokan in Shirahone or Nozawa Onsen, and unwind in the hot springs.
Day 2
Morning – Hit the slopes at Hakuba Valley or Nozawa Onsen, known for world-class skiing. (if during winter)
Afternoon – Savor Nagano’s local specialties, like fresh soba and crisp apples.
Evening – Take the Shinkansen back to Tokyo, feeling refreshed and recharged.
Taste the Best of Nagano: Local Wellness Cuisine
A visit to Nagano isn’t complete without trying its nutritious and delicious cuisine. Some local specialties you won’t want to miss:
Nagano Apples – The region produces 50% of Japan’s apples, known for their crisp texture and sweet flavor.
Soba Noodles – High in protein and antioxidants, these buckwheat noodles are a Nagano staple.
Shinshu-Soba, Nagano’s famous Soba Noodles
Your Wellness Journey Starts Here
Nagano offers more than just beautiful landscapes—it’s a place where wellness, tradition, and nature come together. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this hidden gem is perfect for your next trip.
For those interested in taking their wellness journey a step further, consider combining your visit with a comprehensive health check through called Ningen Dock. Ningen Dock Navigator helps foreign visitors like you access world-class medical checkups in Japan, ensuring you stay in top shape while exploring. Learn more about Ningen Dock in my previous Newsletter.
Also, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to discover more hidden destinations in Japan!
P.S. I’ve visited Nagano many times, and there’s always something new to discover! If you need tips for your trip, feel free to reach out.
Hi! Do you have any recommendations of where to stay in or outside of nagano? We stayed at a ryokan in Shibu onsen last year as couples- end of April were taking 3 kids 7-13!
I would like to visit Nagano sometime and this was very useful. Thank you for writing!