Looking for the best things to do in Nagano? This scenic prefecture in the heart of Japan is a dream destination for nature lovers, hot spring enthusiasts, and winter sports fans alike. Surrounded by the majestic Japanese Alps, Nagano offers a mix of adventure and tranquility—snowy peaks in winter, lush forests in summer, and cultural gems all year round.
Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a long road trip, exploring Nagano by RV (recreational vehicle) gives you the freedom to experience it all—mountain hikes, onsen towns, ski resorts, and local cuisine—without being tied to train schedules or hotel bookings.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best things to do in Nagano, including top nature spots, cultural sites, famous hot springs, must-try local foods, and tips for traveling by RV. Perfect for travelers seeking authentic Japanese countryside experiences with comfort and flexibility.
Why Nagano Is a Must-Visit Destination
Located in the center of Japan’s main island, Nagano is one of the country’s most scenic and diverse destinations. From the dramatic peaks of the Japanese Alps to peaceful temple towns and relaxing hot springs, Nagano offers a perfect balance of adventure and serenity. It’s a place where you can experience Japan’s natural beauty and traditional culture in one trip.
A Treasure of Nature in the Japanese Alps
Nagano is often called the “Roof of Japan” thanks to its towering mountains and vast highlands. The region is home to some of the country’s most famous outdoor destinations, including Kamikōchi, the Hakuba Valley, and the Shiga Kōgen Highlands. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and canoeing in summer, or skiing and snowboarding in winter—all while surrounded by pristine alpine scenery.
Easy Access from Tokyo
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Nagano is how easily you can get there. The Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Nagano takes only approx. 1.5 hours, making it a convenient escape from the city.
For those who prefer flexibility, renting an RV allows you to drive from Tokyo to Nagano while exploring beautiful countryside towns along the way.
Learn more in our detailed guide: How to Get to Nagano from Tokyo: Shinkansen, Bus, Car, or RV
Beauty in Every Season
Nagano’s charm changes with each season.
- ・Spring: Cherry blossoms and fresh greenery in castle parks and mountain trails
- ・Summer: Ideal weather for camping, hiking, and lakeside drives
- ・Autumn: Vibrant red and gold foliage across the Japanese Alps
- ・Winter: Legendary powder snow and cozy onsen towns
No matter when you visit, Nagano always offers new experiences—making it a destination you can return to again and again.
Experience Nagano’s Great Outdoors
Nagano is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its breathtaking mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and unspoiled forests, it’s one of the best places in Japan to connect with nature. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or just relaxing in scenic spots, you’ll find countless things to do in Nagano’s great outdoors.
Kamikochi – The Japanese Alps at Their Finest
One of the most iconic natural destinations in Japan, Kamikochi offers spectacular views of the Northern Japanese Alps. This highland valley, located within Chūbu Sangaku National Park, is known for its emerald river and dramatic mountain peaks.
You can enjoy easy walking trails along the Azusa River or take on more challenging hikes up Mount Hotaka or Mount Yake. Kamikochi is open from mid-April to mid-November, and camping sites nearby make it a perfect RV stop for nature lovers.
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park – See the Famous Bathing Monkeys
Located in Yamanouchi Town, the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is one of Nagano’s most famous attractions. Here, Japanese macaques soak in natural hot springs during the winter, surrounded by snow-covered mountains.
It’s a unique and heartwarming sight you can’t find anywhere else in the world. The park is accessible by car or RV, and the nearby Shibu Onsen and Yudanaka Onsen towns are perfect for an overnight stay.
Shiga Kogen – A Four-Season Highland Resort
Shiga Kogen is Japan’s largest ski area, but it’s not just for winter. In summer and autumn, its highlands turn into a wonderland for hikers and cyclists, with panoramic views and cool mountain air.
The region is part of the Joshin’etsu Kogen National Park, and it’s easily accessible by RV, offering plenty of parking and scenic drive routes.
Lake Nojiri & Lake Suwa – Lakeside Relaxation and Water Activities
If you prefer peaceful scenery, Lake Nojiri in northern Nagano and Lake Suwa in central Nagano are perfect for camping, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).
RV travelers can park near the lakes, cook with fresh local food from nearby markets, and enjoy sunset views right outside their vehicle. In summer, Lake Suwa also hosts one of Japan’s most spectacular fireworks festivals.
Exploring these natural gems by RV allows you to enjoy Nagano’s wild beauty without rushing—stop where you like, stay as long as you wish, and wake up to a mountain view every morning.
Discover Nagano’s History and Culture
Nagano isn’t just about nature—it’s also a place where Japan’s deep history and culture come alive. From ancient temples and castles to beautifully preserved post towns, Nagano invites travelers to step back in time and discover the charm of traditional Japan.
Zenko-ji Temple – The Spiritual Heart of Nagano
The city of Nagano grew around Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most important and oldest Buddhist temples, founded over 1,400 years ago. It’s home to Japan’s first Buddhist statue and welcomes millions of pilgrims each year.
Walking along the temple approach, you’ll find traditional shops selling local sweets and crafts. Early morning prayers at Zenko-ji are a peaceful and unforgettable experience—highly recommended for anyone visiting Nagano City.
Matsumoto Castle – Japan’s “Black Castle”
In central Nagano lies Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s few remaining original castles and a designated National Treasure. Known as the “Crow Castle” for its elegant black exterior, it stands beautifully against the backdrop of the Japanese Alps.
Visitors can climb the steep wooden stairs inside to explore samurai-era architecture and enjoy panoramic views from the top tower. Nearby, the Nakamachi Street area offers charming cafés and antique shops—perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Narai-juku & Tsumago-juku – Time Travel to the Edo Period
Along the historic Nakasendo Trail, which once connected Tokyo (Edo) and Kyoto, you can still find post towns that preserve the atmosphere of old Japan.
Narai-juku and Tsumago-juku are among the best-preserved, with wooden inns, sake shops, and teahouses that make visitors feel as if they’ve stepped back 200 years.
Exploring these towns by RV gives you the flexibility to stay overnight nearby, enjoy local hospitality, and experience Japan’s slow-paced countryside charm.
Local Festivals and Traditional Crafts
Nagano is also home to a variety of cultural experiences throughout the year.The Onbashira Festival in Suwa, held every six years, is one of Japan’s most thrilling traditional events, where logs are dramatically ridden down steep slopes.
You can also explore local craftsmanship, such as Kiso lacquerware, Obuse’s ukiyo-e art, or pottery studios in Matsumoto.From sacred temples to living history towns, Nagano’s cultural side offers a deeper understanding of Japan beyond the cities.
Relax in Nagano’s Famous Hot Springs
Nagano is often called the “onsen heaven” of central Japan. With hundreds of natural hot spring sources spread across the mountains, the prefecture offers countless opportunities to unwind in mineral-rich waters surrounded by stunning scenery. After a long day of skiing or hiking, there’s nothing better than soaking in an outdoor bath while watching the snow fall or listening to the sound of a mountain stream.
Nozawa Onsen – Tradition and Skiing in One Place
Nozawa Onsen is one of Nagano’s most famous hot spring villages and ski resorts. This historic town has more than 30 public baths and 13 free “sotoyu” baths shared by locals and travelers alike.
Walking through its narrow streets, you’ll see wooden bathhouses filled with steam and the nostalgic charm of old Japan. In winter, you can ski all day on the slopes and relax in a hot spring at night—a perfect combination.
The town also hosts the spectacular Dosojin Fire Festival every January, one of Japan’s most exciting winter events.
Shibu Onsen – Stroll Through a Retro Onsen Town
Located near the Snow Monkey Park, Shibu Onsen is a picturesque hot spring town known for its nine public baths. Visitors can stay in a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn), put on a yukata, and stroll the cobbled streets with a small towel in hand, visiting all nine baths for good luck.
It’s a truly authentic Japanese experience that feels like stepping into the past—and it’s easy to reach by RV or car from Nagano City or Yamanouchi.
Bessho Onsen – A Quiet Retreat in Ueda
For those looking for a peaceful and less-crowded hot spring escape, Bessho Onsen in Ueda City is an excellent choice. Known as one of Nagano’s oldest hot springs, it’s said to have been used by monks and samurai centuries ago.
The area has beautiful temples, such as Anraku-ji, and offers serene outdoor baths surrounded by forested hills. Many RV travelers choose to stop here for a relaxing night after exploring the eastern side of Nagano.
Onsen Etiquette to Remember
When visiting an onsen in Japan, remember a few key manners:
- ・Wash your body thoroughly before entering the bath.
- ・Don’t bring towels into the hot water.
- ・Keep your voice low to maintain a calm atmosphere.
- ・Tattoos are becoming more accepted, but many facilities may still restrict access—check in advance.
Experiencing Nagano’s hot springs is not just about relaxation—it’s about connecting with a centuries-old part of Japanese culture. Whether you prefer lively onsen towns or quiet mountain retreats, you’ll find the perfect place to recharge on your RV journey.
Enjoy Winter in Nagano: Skiing and Snow Adventures
If you’re looking for the ultimate winter destination in Japan, Nagano is the place to go. Famous for hosting the 1998 Winter Olympics, Nagano continues to attract skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. With its reliable powder snow, wide variety of ski resorts, and relaxing hot springs, it offers a perfect blend of adventure and comfort.
Hakuba Valley – World-Class Slopes and International Vibes
Hakuba Valley is Nagano’s most popular ski area and one of Japan’s largest, consisting of multiple interconnected resorts such as Happo-One, Iwatake, and Tsugaike Kogen. The slopes here offer terrain for every level—from gentle beginner runs to steep backcountry trails.
The village has an international atmosphere, with English-friendly ski schools, rental shops, and restaurants. After skiing, you can relax in an onsen with a view of the Japanese Alps or enjoy a cozy meal in one of Hakuba’s many local izakaya pubs.
Learn more in our guide: Best Ski Resorts in Nagano: Top 10 Spots for Powder, Easy Access & Hot Springs
Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort – Where Onsen Meets Powder
Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort combines two of Nagano’s best experiences: deep powder snow and traditional hot springs. The slopes are wide and family-friendly, yet advanced skiers can also enjoy off-piste adventures.
After a day on the mountain, stroll through the old-fashioned town and soak in one of its free public baths. RV travelers often park near the village or nearby campgrounds to fully enjoy both skiing and onsen in one spot.
Shiga Kogen – Japan’s Highest Ski Fields
Shiga Kogen, part of the Joshin’etsu Kogen National Park, offers over 20 connected ski areas, making it Japan’s largest ski resort. The high altitude ensures a long season and some of the best snow conditions in the country.
Beyond skiing, you can explore snowshoe trails or visit the nearby Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park to see the famous hot spring–bathing monkeys.
More Winter Fun Beyond Skiing
Nagano isn’t only for skiers—there are plenty of other winter adventures too. Try snowshoeing in Kamikochi, ice fishing at Lake Nojiri, or simply take scenic drives through snowy mountain villages.
RV travel in winter allows you to move freely between resorts, warm up in your cozy camper, and experience multiple areas in one trip.
Nagano in winter is pure magic—a snowy paradise where adventure meets relaxation. Whether you come for world-class skiing or peaceful onsen nights, it’s a season that captures the true essence of Japan’s mountain life.
Taste Nagano’s Local Food and Cuisine
One of the best things to do in Nagano—besides exploring its nature and hot springs—is to enjoy its rich local cuisine. The region is famous for hearty mountain food made with fresh ingredients from its clean air, pure water, and fertile valleys. From traditional noodles to farm-fresh apples, Nagano’s food scene perfectly reflects the spirit of Japan’s countryside.
Shinshu Soba – The Taste of the Mountains
Shinshu soba is perhaps the most famous Nagano food specialty. The clean mountain water and cool climate make Nagano one of Japan’s top soba-producing regions.
You can enjoy soba everywhere—from family-run noodle shops to elegant restaurants near Nagano Station or Matsumoto Castle. Popular spots often appear on Tabelog Nagano rankings, but even small countryside eateries serve incredible handmade noodles.
Tip: Try the “soba-gaki” (a soft soba dough dish) or “tempura soba” for a complete local experience.
Oyaki – Nagano’s Comfort Snack
Oyaki are steamed or grilled dumplings filled with vegetables, beans, or sweet miso. It’s a beloved Nagano comfort food, often sold at roadside stalls, train stations, and farmers’ markets.
RV travelers can easily stop by local shops or michi-no-eki (roadside rest areas) to pick up freshly made oyaki—perfect for an on-the-go snack while exploring the mountains.
Nagano Apples, Miso & Sake
Nagano is Japan’s second-largest apple producer, known for juicy, sweet varieties like Fuji and Shinano Gold. During autumn, you can even enjoy apple-picking experiences at local orchards in Suzaka or Obuse.
The region is also famous for Shinshu miso, used in local soups and grilled dishes, and for Japanese sake brewed with pure snowmelt water. Many breweries offer tastings, especially around Ueda and Suwa—a great way to experience Nagano’s craftsmanship.
Dining Near Nagano Station
If you’re exploring Nagano City, check out the best restaurants near Nagano Station for local specialties. From soba and oyaki to izakaya serving regional sake, the area offers plenty of dining choices for travelers.
Some recommended local dishes include nozawana pickles (fermented greens) and gohei-mochi (grilled rice skewers with miso sauce).
Enjoy Local Flavors on Your RV Journey
One of the biggest perks of RV travel is being able to cook with fresh local ingredients. Stop by michi-no-eki rest areas or small farmers’ markets to buy regional produce, apples, and miso, then prepare your own Japanese-style meal in your RV kitchen.
It’s a fun, immersive way to experience Nagano’s food culture—just like a local.
From soba to sake, Nagano’s cuisine celebrates the flavors of Japan’s mountains. Each meal tells a story of the region’s nature, history, and hospitality.
Explore Nagano Freely by RV
Because Nagano covers a vast area filled with mountains, lakes, and valleys, the best way to explore it all is by RV. While trains and buses can take you to major cities, many of Nagano’s most beautiful places—hidden onsen towns, mountain trails, and small rural villages—are best reached on your own wheels.
Why an RV Is the Best Way to Explore Nagano
Traveling by RV gives you the flexibility to move at your own pace. You can visit several areas in a single trip—spending one night by a lake, another near a ski resort, and the next in an onsen village.
Unlike staying at hotels, you don’t have to pack and unpack every day or worry about check-in times. Plus, RVs in Japan are compact and easy to drive, even on mountain roads.
AROUND JAPAN RV RENTAL provides modern, fully equipped vehicles with comfortable beds, kitchenettes, and heating systems—ideal for both summer and winter adventures.
Planning a short road trip? Check out:
RV Rental for a Week in Japan: Costs, Routes, and Tips for Travelers
Staying longer? Explore more remote spots with this guide:
RV Rental for 2 Weeks in Japan: Costs, Routes, and Long-Term Travel Tips
Suggested RV Travel Route in Nagano
Here’s an example of a 3 to 5 day RV itinerary through Nagano’s highlights:
- ・Day 1: Depart Tokyo → Stop at Karuizawa → Explore Bessho Onsen (overnight stay)
- ・Day 2: Visit Zenko-ji Temple → Drive to Shiga Kogen Highlands → Stay near Yudanaka
- ・Day 3: See the Snow Monkeys → Continue to Nozawa Onsen → Enjoy local food and onsen
- ・Day 4: Head to Lake Nojiri or Hakuba Valley → Overnight in mountain scenery
- ・Day 5: Return toward Tokyo via Matsumoto → Visit Matsumoto Castle and local markets
With your RV, you can change plans anytime—extend your stay, chase good weather, or stop at scenic viewpoints along the way. Every day becomes your own adventure.
Where to Park and Stay
Nagano offers many RV-friendly campsites and Michi-no-Eki (roadside stations) where you can stop for rest and enjoy local facilities.
Most Michi-no-Eki are open 24 hours with free parking and clean restrooms, but they are primarily for short rest or naps rather than official overnight stays. Some locations, however, do allow RV overnight parking or have adjacent camping areas. Always check the local signs or ask the staff before staying overnight.
For full facilities—such as showers, electricity, and waste disposal—look for RV parks or camping grounds, which are available throughout the prefecture.
Exploring Nagano by RV means freedom, flexibility, and unforgettable views—whether you’re chasing autumn colors, snow-capped peaks, or spring blossoms.
How to Get to Nagano from Tokyo
Getting to Nagano from Tokyo is surprisingly easy, which makes it a perfect destination for both short getaways and longer RV adventures. Whether you prefer speed, comfort, or scenic driving, there are several great options to reach Nagano.
By Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
The fastest and most convenient way is the Hokuriku Shinkansen, which connects Tokyo Station to Nagano Station in approx. 1 hour 30 minutes.
Trains depart frequently—about every 30 minutes—and are fully covered by the JR Pass.
You can relax and enjoy the mountain views as you travel deep into the Japanese Alps.
Check our full guide:
How to Get to Nagano from Tokyo: Shinkansen, Bus, Car, or RV
By Highway Bus
If you’re traveling on a budget, highway buses are a great alternative. They take around 3.5~4.5 hours from Tokyo (Shinjuku or Ikebukuro) to Nagano City, with prices starting from approx. ¥3,000~¥5,000.
Though slower than the Shinkansen, buses are comfortable and sometimes offer direct routes to ski resorts like Hakuba or Nozawa Onsen.
By Car or RV
Driving from Tokyo to Nagano takes approx. 3~4 hours via the Kan-Etsu Expressway or Joshin-Etsu Expressway.This is an ideal option if you plan to visit several towns, nature spots, or onsen resorts along the way.
With an RV, you can stop freely—perhaps for a picnic by Lake Suwa, or to explore Karuizawa’s shopping streets before heading deeper into the mountains. RV travel also saves you from changing hotels or carrying luggage between stations, giving you complete control over your itinerary.
Conclusion & Travel Planning Tips
From majestic mountains and relaxing hot springs to historical temples and delicious local food, Nagano offers endless adventures for every kind of traveler. Whether you visit in winter for world-class skiing or in summer for scenic hikes and lakeside camping, you’ll always find something special waiting here.
Traveling by RV allows you to enjoy all these experiences at your own pace—no fixed timetables, no hotel check-ins, just pure freedom on the open road. You can start your journey from Tokyo, explore the best things to do in Nagano, and create memories that last a lifetime.
If you’re ready to explore Japan beyond the cities, renting an RV is one of the most rewarding ways to do it. AROUND JAPAN RV RENTAL offers English-friendly service, clean and comfortable vehicles, and expert travel support for both short and long-term trips.
Ready to hit the road?
Book your RV with AROUND JAPAN RV RENTAL and start your Nagano adventure today.
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