Top Nagano Prefecture Outdoor Activities

Experience the dramatic mountain landscape of Chubu Sangaku National Park and visit the immense snow walls of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. This day trip departs from Nagano Station and includes a ticket for round-trip rail transport with your guide. Traveling with a maximum of 15 passengers in your small group ensures an intimate atmosphere.

Kamikochi is a popular resort in the Northern Japan Alps, offering some of Japan's most spectacular mountain scenery. With one of the most famous hiking paths in all Japan, we set foot there on our quest for traditional Japan. Kamikochi hiking course along the Azusa River is well maintained and almost flat. This value-packed trail day hike with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Japan Alps! It is about 3.5 kilometres (2 miles) long and has only gentle elevation changes which takes around 2-4 hours to easy walk at a leisurely pace. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a four-hours tour that's best for you! Note*1: Nationally and State Licensed Tour Guide-Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

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 nationally-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. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a six-hour tour that's best for you! Note*1: Nationally and State Licensed Tour Guide-Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Over the course of two days of an easy walk (self-guided tour) along the Nakasendo road and one overnight stay at a Minshuku (family run lodging), immerse yourself in Japan's folkloric landscapes between the villages of Nakatsugawa and Tsumago. During Japan's feudal period (1603-1868), the Nakasendo road was one of the five routes that linked the economic hub, Tokyo, to the imperial capital, Kyoto. Unlike the Tokaido road, which was replaced by today's Shinkansen train, the Nakasendo was saved from rampant modernization and still upholds an old-fashioned charm. Created by general Tokugawa in order to assert his political domination, the route spans a distance of 534 kilometers and includes 69 rest stops. Its name literally means "mountain road" and is a means of communication in case of a large flood on the Tokaido: the coastal road. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level

Let's enjoy snow trekking through Tsuboniwa to a beautiful lava plateau. You can enjoy the silver world as far as the eye can see, including diamond dust where the moisture in the air has been frozen by the cold, and the scene where the Shirabiso and Osirabiso forests are transformed by snow and ice. Have an inspiring time playing in the snow and having a snowball fight! Beginners can enjoy snowshoeing with ease. Enjoy the great nature as far as the eye can see, such as icy trees, snowfields, and white birch forests. Walking and lying down on the fluffy fresh snow can be enjoyed by both children and adults. Find rabbit and antelope tracks, as well as the bed of a Japanese deer.

After filling your water bottle with refreshing natural water, begin your venture to reach Mt. Kirigamine through Venus Line on an e-bike. The E-bike will make it a much more relaxing ride. Your guide will explain the must-see sights and what makes the area special. Enjoy the unique view of many famous Japanese mountains at the observatories.

【OUTLINE】 Explore Nagano’s Togura Kamiyamada Onsen area by bicycle and learn about life in the Japanese countryside with explanation by a local guide. You will see examples of traditional Japanese houses in an old residential area, have a talk with farmers in apple orchards and rice paddy fields, touch the Japanese spirits in a shrine with a sumo ring and a temple with a thatched roof, and view the scenery of the river and surrounding mountains from the Chikuma River Cycling Road. And lastly, have soft ice cream while taking a footbath.

【OUTLINE】 Explore Nagano’s Togura Kamiyamada Onsen area by bicycle and learn about life in the Japanese countryside with explanation by a local guide. You will see examples of traditional Japanese houses in an old residential area, have a talk with farmers in apple orchards and rice paddy fields, touch the Japanese spirits in a shrine with a sumo ring and a temple with a thatched roof, and view the scenery of the river and surrounding mountains from the Chikuma River Cycling Road. And lastly, have soft ice cream while taking a footbath.

Experience the nature and culture of beautiful Nagano on this all-day excursion. After a convenient hotel pickup, head out with an informative local guide and bicycle through apple orchards along the Chikuma River, watch macaques bathe in their natural habitat at Snow Monkey Park, relax in a hot spring at Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen villages, and treat yourself to delicious chestnuts in Obuse.

Explore the magnificent temples and natural wonders of Nagano on a full-day tour and benefit from the undivided attention of a private guide. Visit the famous Zenkoji Temple and Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, enjoy lunch (own expense) in Obuse Town, then choose a soak in the hot springs at Shibu Onsen.

Japan Snowsports is a group of highly qualified and experienced instructors who are passionate about snow sports and Japan. Next to improving your skills to the best of your ability they will show you the best Japan has to offer.

We are a group of highly qualified and experienced instructors who are passionate about snow sports and Japan. Next to improving your skills to the best of your ability they will show you the best Japan has to offer.

We will provide skiing and telemarking for beginners to intermediate level students in an easy-to-understand and kind manner. You can also change the lesson contents in the morning and afternoon, so please join with your family We recommend Karuizawa, which is slippery from both Tokyo and the station, but it is possible in other areas if you have special needs.

There's no better place to experience Japanese history and culture than in a city with a real castle from the feudal era! Come and enjoy three different experiences with this unique workshop! Taiko Drumming: Our passionate instructors will guide you step-by-step as you progress through the many rhythmic patterns that gradually increased in difficulty. Learn how to become a real Taiko Drummer right next door to Matsumoto Castle! Samurai Sword Fighting: Experience for yourself this ancestral fighting art. Learn how to handle a sword and after covering some moves, you can have your stage combat recorded on video. Become the star of your own samurai story! Ninja Experience: A fun experience for all, especially for families with kids. The Ninja Master will teach you three major ninja methods: Ninja Throwing Stars, Ninja Blowguns and Ninja Combat. Receive Ninja training from a Ninja Master and become a real Ninja Warrior! Activity available in English and French.

It’s a Cycling tour around north Nagano's Satoyama landscape and the Myoko Togakushi Renzan National Park. During the cycling tour, we will stop by the beautiful lake, waterfall, very old local shrine, or maybe some farmer's house. Since the area used to be a post town along the Hokkoku Kaido, very old road which connect Edo (Tokyo) to Kanazawa, there are many historical monuments remained around the area. I will take you to a secret place where never on a guidebook! Participants can feel an authentic life style,history and nature of snowy rural area in Northern Nagano.

The 80km Shinetsu trail, the best woodland trail in Japan, runs over the ridges of the Sekida mountains at about 1,000 meters above sea level, forming a boundary between Nagano and Niigata prefectures. It is one of the few long trails in Japan. This area is blessed with a rich ecosystem nurtured by Japanese beech tree forests. Historically, there were 16 passages connecting Nagano with Niigata. The forests are perhaps best known for their beech trees. The tall, well-shaped beech trees form a corridor of nature along the path. The earth-packed trail also makes it easy to walk. Spring (from mid-June to the end of July) and autumn (from mid-September to the end of October) are great seasons to visit the trail. In the spring, the last traces of snow can be seen among new greenery and flowers bursting into bloom. In the fall, hikers can enjoy the brilliant colors of autumn leaves.

A pottering tour around the farm area and the gourmet spot in the farm area and the starting point of Karuizawa. While cycling, you will be able to have a confectionery experience of making harvest and jam at the berry garden, and for lunch you can enjoy the vegetables that you picked yourself at the farm as a salad lunch on the spot. If it is fine, a large panorama of Mount Asama spreads along the course. Karuizawa's unique tandem (bicycle) is recommended for families.

While cycling, I potted the standard spots of Karuizawa (cycling slowly). If you rent a bicycle in front of Karuizawa Station, first go to Karuizawa's first scenic spot "Kumoba Pond". After taking a walk for a while after getting off the bicycle, I will go through the villa area of the grove to the old Karuizawa. While visiting the narrow streets of the old Karuizawa back street, we will guide you to the staple spots such as the St. Paul's Society, the show memorial chapel, and the Karuizawa tennis court, famous for the romance of the Emperor and Empress. Along the way, you will be guided to gourmets and shopping spots that you know only because it is Karuizawa Local. I will guide you to the unknown Karuizawa not listed in the guidebook. It's a flat road, so everyone, young and old, can join. There is also a tandem (two-seater) unique to Karuizawa for parents and children and couples!

Walk past Karuizawa inn from the former Nakayama Road to the Sakamoto inn. Sui Hui is a place that was once said to be the most difficult place in Zhongshan Road. At the top of the Usui Pass, you can see the view point of the Kanto plains panoramic view and the Kumano Imperial Shrine, which is famous for its power spots. After that, while going down the borge weir, we aim for Sakamoto inn while passing "Yamanaka teahouse ruins", "Sakamoto inn" with a panoramic view "Nagi". At the end of the trekking we will stop by and guide you to the hot spring "Kotonoyu". Slowly bathe in the hot spring, but if you are on your way back to Yokogawa Station, return to Karuizawa by bus.

Shinanoji Nature Trail is a hiking course about 10km in length, which is almost a descent from the peak teahouse. Walk about 7,5 km to the hot spots in Oze, which has many attractions. A downhill trek is relaxed while being healed by the colorful miscellaneous trees and larch forest. You can also see the two famous Karuizawa waterfalls (Shiraito Falls and Dragon Falls) along the way. This course is recommended for people who are not always confident in their physical fitness, and young and old alike, since the entire trip is almost a descent. From Oze Onsen, it is also possible to return to the peak chaya parking lot by bus or directly to Karuizawa Station.

It is a trekking tour with an exclusive guide to the summit of the small Asama mountain of the Asama mountain foot. Koasayama is a parasitic volcano on the eastern foot of Mt. Asama at an altitude of 1,655 m. A guide will guide you through the formation and vegetation of Mt. Asama and aim at the summit. As it is about two and a half hours by round trip, if you are new to mountain climbing, you can feel free to participate regardless of age or sex. From the top of the mountain covered by the volcano, the spectacular Mt. Asama and the wonderful prospects await.

Tour highlights: A long time ago, it was said that it was the most difficult place on Nakasendo. In this tour, we will aim for a scenic spot from the former Karuizawa Ginza through the boardwalk of the Suigaki Pass. The trail through the wooded villa has a promenade, and it takes about 1 hour to arrive at the viewing station. From the view point, the scenic views of Mt. Asama and Mt. As it is a simple hiking course, you can participate regardless of age and sex. As it will be disbanded freely at the view point, you can stop at Kumano Imperial Shrine and take a break at a teahouse and the like. On the way back, you can either return on the way you came, or take the bus back to the old Karuizawa. Travel time: Former Karuizawa Ginza ⇒ (碓 峠 promenade) 見 Mikarudai (local dissolution) * For each return trip, either return on the way or go to old Karuizawa by bus.

Navigator: Tomoko Yoga Alliance RYT200 Other sports: Rhythmic gymnastics, Shorinji Kempo(Kuro-obi), Aerobics 9yrs experience in meditation Bach/FES flower essence practitioner Art Therapist Access bars practitioner Travel more than 15countries, have lived in U.S.A, Singapore, Australia.

You will go around famous sightseeing spots in Hokushin (Northern Nagano) area. First, you will see the Jigokudani Wild Snow Monkey Park worldly known for its snow monkeys. Then you will go to Obuse Town, which is reputed for its town renewal project vitalizing the historical heritages such as Hokusai Katsushika.

It is a recommended course to explore the three major scenic & power spots in Karuizawa by shuttle taxi. Even non-cars can travel efficiently around 3 places with poor public transportation access. You can experience the beautiful nature and landscape of Karuizawa from the fresh green season to the autumnal season!

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 :)

The biggest feature of this tour is the high chance of seeing the wild animals. The encounter rate in our 2018 and 2019 tours was 98.9%. The guides at Picchio are familiar with the ecology of all the wildlife species. They will be able to guide you through the unique aspects of living creatures from an expert perspective, not only from observing the animals themselves but also from observing the surrounding natural environment and ecosystem as a whole.

We will watch the wild Japanese giant flying squirrel, which is endemic to Japan and one of the biggest flying squirrels in the world. Since our professional nature guides know their life style and gliding patterns, the chances of watching their gliding is 97.8% (actual result of this tour in 2019).

Let’s Roam is the #1 app-led scavenger hunt company. Walk to all the best landmarks and hidden gems, answering trivia questions and solving challenges. Work with your team or compete against them, as you learn new facts and create memorable experiences. Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts are great as an everyday activity, or for bachelorette parties, birthday parties, corporate team building events and more! Each player chooses an interactive role, with challenges varying by person.

Check out Japan’s famous cherry blossom blooms and see snow monkeys on a full-day trip from Nagano. After visiting the Jigokudani Monkey Park, you’ll stop for lunch, then visit several different ‘hanami’ spots to admire the cherry blossom trees. This seasonal experience runs from April to the end of May, allowing you to take in the later blooms of the mountainous northern Nagano region.

Enjoy fun winter activities and visit the famous Japanese snow monkeys during this full-day trip to the Shiga Kogen Highlands in Nagano. Visit Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you can observe wild macaques bathing in the area hot springs. After a warm, delicious lunch, you have time for sledding, snow bikes, snow scooters, and a lift ride up the 5,800-foot (1,900-meter) slope of a famous area ski resort.

Insightful and memorable Nagano tour experience provided in-person or small group covering areas still to be discovered by mainstream tourists. The tour traveling in a comfortable car and guided by an experienced local includes the beautiful panorama view of Iiyama from high up in the mountain, good coffee or tea (rare to find in the area) at the little LAIME jam factory, visiting an old ski resort from Showa era and Houiji village shrine. The guide will share with you the local insights, new perspective from Japanese country side and make sure you are having a great time and fun. Book today and enjoy Iiyama like a local!

Japan’s Nagano prefecture is widely regarded as the country’s winter capital, due to its snowy landscapes and premium ski spots. Visit one of Japan’s most famous winter spots on a 3.5-hour tour of Jigokudani Monkey Park from Shimotakai-gun. Marvel at red-faced Japanese macaques as they bathe in steaming ‘onsen’ (hot springs) and follow walking trails rife with flora and fauna.

Experience the best of Japan - the thrill of deep powder, the beauty of an unique culture, and the fun of a great guided tour. Enjoy some of the most amazing snow on planet earth, stay in a truly authentic Japanese ski village where you are the minority, visit mom and pop restaurants and mix with the locals, be entertained by Geisha, Taiko Drum, Shimansen Guitar, Lion Dance and Karate performances, visit the world famous Snow Monkeys, walk through ancient castles, temples and shrines and relax in natural hot pools. Where other companies may talk up the cultural aspects of Japan we include them in our tours so you get a truly authentic Japanese ski experience. And best of all you get to share this all with a group of like minded ski and snowboard enthusiasts, all hosted by instructor/guides who are just plain passionate about what they do for you as our testimonials attest to. And don’t forget our hidden gems that we leave as a surprise for you on your journey with us at JPC Tours.

Shiga Kogen surrounded by the great nature of Joshinetsu Kogen National Park The Snowshoe Asahiyama course will guide you through courses with ups and downs while enjoying the appearance of animals and plants that survive the harsh nature of winter. The second largest loquat pond on the Shiga Kogen, the summit of Asahiyama overlooking the surrounding mountains, and walking on the frozen pond of Ichinuma.

Missed cherry blossoms in Tokyo? If you arrived in Tokyo too late for the cherry blossoms, don't give up yet. Cherry blossoms tend to bloom here in northern Nagano about two weeks later than those around central Tokyo. It only takes about 100 mins to be here from Tokyo station by Hokuriku Shinkansen. Cycling tour is a great way to experience a beautiful countryside of Japan and visit popular sightseeing spots around Iiyama city. The rural landscape with lush mountain scenery is dotted with traditional old houses. Let's go find a simple life of local people in Japan countryside with us! - Friendly and informative local guide. - Stopping at cherry blossom spots during the blossoming season. - Exploring beautiful, yet completely different scenery with Japan's distinct four seasons. - Total cycling distance is 15km/9.3miles - Mostly flat route, easy for riders of basic fitness. - Discover unique traditions and life styles in a harsh winter.

Great way to experience a beautiful countryside of Japan and visit popular sightseeing spots around Iiyama city. The rural landscape with lush mountain scenery is dotted with traditional old houses. You will feel like you have gone back in time and see a simple life of local people in Japan countryside. - Friendly and informative local guide. - Exploring beautiful, yet completely different scenery with Japan's distinct four seasons. - Stopping at cherry blossom spots during the blossoming season. - Total cycling distance is 15km/9.3miles - Mostly flat route, easy for riders of basic fitness. - Visiting Buddhist Alter Street and historical temples. - Discover unique traditions and life styles in a harsh winter.

Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort offers a fairly even mix of all levels of slopes and interests to suit everyone with 36 Ski Runs, the longest around 10km with 21 Lifts and Gondolas operating. After Breakfast, the lifts open around 8.45am hit the slopes. After a big day skiing it's time to experience the Onsens (hot springs) for which Nozawa is famous for dating back way back in the 8th Century. That evening try one of the many fantastic places to eat during your stay. The meals are sensational and cheap, the restaurants are a lot smaller and chances are it’s run by just two or three people! Exclusive to our guests staying at a distance from the slopes is the use of the Ski Locker – located just below the main Nagasaka Gondola. Free overnight Ski and Snowboard storage (boots to be stored in your lodge dry room) Can click in over the road and ski down to Karasawa connection lift or just walk up to the Gondola. The team is on site mornings and evenings if any assistance is needed.

* Hiking the snowy mountains at the foot of Mt. Asama with snowshoes! * Experience making original ice cream while hiking! * Recommended for families because there are few up and down courses! * After the tour, you can also enjoy hot springs and lunch at the Takamine Kogen Hotel! * A free pick-up car is also available from Karuizawa Station!

* Snowshoe hiking with a guide through the snowy mountains at the foot of Asama! * From the course, you can see the panorama of Yatsugatake and the Japanese Alps! * Takamine Kogen Hotel has a hot spring and gourmet lunch! * Includes round-trip transportation from Karuizawa Station!