Exploring Nagano: City, Foodie, Nature Road Trip

Day 1: City Exploration

Nagano, Japan

8:00AM

Zenko-ji Temple

Start your day with a visit to the historic Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan's most important pilgrimage sites.
Zenko-ji Temple is a short walk from Nagano Station.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum

Explore the impressive collection of modern and contemporary art at the Shinano Art Museum.
A 20-minute walk or a short drive from Zenko-ji Temple.
¥800, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Jumbo Yatai Mura Street Food Stalls

Indulge in delicious street food at Jumbo Yatai Mura, offering a variety of local delicacies.
Located near the art museum, perfect for lunch.
Varies, 1 hour

3:00PM

Togakushi Shrine

Take a scenic drive to Togakushi Shrine and explore the beautiful nature and tranquil surroundings.
About 40-minute drive from Nagano City.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Isshin

End the day with a delicious dinner at Isshin, known for its traditional Japanese cuisine.
Head back to Nagano City for dinner.
¥3000, 2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Matsumoto, Japan

9:00AM

Matsumoto Castle

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Matsumoto Castle, a designated National Treasure of Japan.
Matsumoto Castle is a 1.5-hour drive from Nagano City.
¥610, 2 hours

12:00PM

Nawate Street

Explore the quaint Nawate Street lined with traditional shops, cafes, and souvenir stores.
Located near Matsumoto Castle, perfect for lunch.
Varies, 1 hour

2:00PM

Kamikochi National Park

Embark on a scenic drive to Kamikochi National Park for breathtaking views of the Japanese Alps.
Around 2-hour drive from Matsumoto.
¥1500, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Yama no Ue

Enjoy a hearty dinner at Yama no Ue, offering delicious local cuisine with mountain views.
Head back to Matsumoto for dinner.
¥2500, 2 hours
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Day 3: Nature Adventure

Kamikochi, Japan

8:00AM

Kappa Bridge

Start your day with a leisurely walk across the iconic Kappa Bridge, offering stunning views of the Azusa River.
Located within Kamikochi National Park.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Myojin Pond

Hike to Myojin Pond for a serene experience surrounded by the beauty of nature.
A short hike from Kappa Bridge.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch by Azusa River

Relax and enjoy a picnic lunch by the crystal-clear waters of the Azusa River.
Find a scenic spot along the riverbank.
Varies, 1 hour

3:00PM

Taisho Pond

Visit the picturesque Taisho Pond, known for its reflection of the Hotaka Mountains.
A short hike or drive from Myojin Pond.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Konashin

Enjoy a delicious dinner at Konashin, a cosy restaurant serving local delicacies.
Head back to the accommodation for dinner.
¥2000, 2 hours
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Day 4: City Farewell

Nagano, Japan

9:00AM

Obuse Town

Explore the charming streets of Obuse Town, known for its chestnut sweets and Hokusai art.
Obuse Town is a 1.5-hour drive from Kamikochi.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Soba Making Experience

Join a soba making experience in Obuse and learn to make traditional buckwheat noodles.
Located in Obuse Town for a hands-on experience.
¥1500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shopping at Midori Nagano

Shop for local souvenirs and handicrafts at Midori Nagano, a popular shopping spot.
Head back to Nagano City for some shopping.
Varies, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Takasugi

Enjoy a farewell dinner at Takasugi, known for its traditional Kaiseki cuisine and warm hospitality.
End the day with a memorable dinner in Nagano City.
¥4000, 2 hours
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