Family Friendly 4-Day Itinerary in Japanese Alps

Day 1: Discovering Nagano

Nagano, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Zenkoji Temple

Begin your adventure with a traditional Japanese breakfast at a quaint cafe near the historic Zenkoji Temple.
Take a short taxi or walk from your accommodation to the temple area.
£10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Zenkoji Temple

Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Zenkoji Temple, a significant cultural landmark in Nagano.
Easily accessible on foot from the breakfast location.
£5, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Soba Noodle Shop

Savour local flavours with a delicious bowl of soba noodles for lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Walk to a highly-rated soba shop close to the temple.
£15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park

Witness the fascinating sight of Japanese macaques bathing in hot springs at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park.
Take a local bus or taxi which takes approximately 40 minutes to reach the park.
£20, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at an Izakaya

Enjoy a family meal at a welcoming izakaya, featuring an array of traditional dishes in a homey atmosphere.
Return to Nagano city centre by bus or taxi for dinner.
£30, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Outdoor Fun in Nagano

Nagano, Japan

9:00AM

Morning Hike at Togakushi

Embark on a scenic hike in Togakushi's lush forests, known for its breathtaking views and tranquil atmosphere.
Take a local bus from Nagano city to Togakushi, approximately 50 minutes.
£5, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch Picnic Near Togakushi Shrines

Unwind with a picnic lunch, enjoying the serene setting of Togakushi Shrines.
Find a suitable picnic spot close to the shrines.
£10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum

Explore diverse collections of art at the Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum, appealing to art lovers of all ages.
Take a bus or taxi back to Nagano city, approximately 40 minutes.
£8, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Ramen Shop

Conclude your day with a delicious bowl of ramen for dinner at a popular local spot known for its rich flavours.
Return to the city centre for dinner.
£12, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Matsumoto

Matsumoto, Japan

9:00AM

Travel to Matsumoto

Depart for Matsumoto, enjoying the scenic train journey through the Japanese Alps.
Take the train from Nagano to Matsumoto, about 50 minutes.
£15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Matsumoto Castle

Explore the stunning Matsumoto Castle, a well-preserved historical site offering breathtaking views and fascinating history.
Walk from the train station to the castle, approximately 15 minutes.
£6, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Teahouse

Delight in a traditional Japanese lunch at a charming teahouse near Matsumoto Castle.
Stroll from the castle to a recommended teahouse nearby.
£20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Nakamachi Street

Wander the picturesque Nakamachi Street, known for its traditional merchant houses and unique shops, perfect for souvenir hunting.
Walk from the teahouse to Nakamachi Street, about 10 minutes away.
£0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a homely dinner with family at a local restaurant serving hearty Japanese dishes in a relaxed setting.
Stroll back to the city centre for a delightful dining experience.
£25, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Last Adventures in Matsumoto

Matsumoto, Japan

9:00AM

Visit Kamikochi National Park

Experience the stunning natural beauty of Kamikochi National Park with its stunning landscapes and abundant hiking trails.
Take a bus from Matsumoto to Kamikochi, which takes about 1 hour.
£30, 6 hours

4:00PM

Afternoon Snack at a Riverside Cafe

Relax at a serene riverside cafe, enjoying a snack while taking in the breathtaking views.
Choose a cafe conveniently located along the riverside.
£5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at a Traditional Ryokan

Conclude your trip with a luxurious kaiseki dinner at a traditional ryokan in Matsumoto, experiencing the best of local seasonal cuisine.
Return to the city centre for dinner at the ryokan.
£70, 2 hours
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