Nagano
The Heart of the Japanese Alps
About
Located at the centre of Japan’s mountain ranges, Nagano Prefecture lies at the heart of the Japanese Alps, where pristine nature, deep-rooted culture and a refined way of life converge. Surrounded by the Northern, Central and Southern Alps, the region offers some of the country’s most iconic alpine landscapes.
Destinations such as Kamikochi, Hakuba and Azumino reveal dramatic peaks, clear rivers and expansive highland scenery, while historic towns, mountain shrines and pilgrimage routes reflect spiritual traditions shaped by the land. In the Kiso Valley, once part of the historic Nakasendo route, beautifully preserved post towns and a strong tradition of woodworking and lacquerware speak to a craftsmanship refined over centuries, rooted in the region’s forests.
Long valued as a place of retreat, Nagano is also known for its hot springs, wellness culture and simple yet sophisticated cuisine, including buckwheat soba, local produce and sake. Easily accessible from Tokyo and Nagoya, Nagano invites travellers to slow down, breathe deeply and experience an authentic, alpine side of Japan.
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Gastronomy
Farm to table produce rich in heritage and flavour. Locally brewed sake and beer all served with that unique special ingredient of Japanese hospitality.
Nagano
Traditional Irori Oyaki Making Experience
Step into a Jomon-period pit-dwelling style hearth house in Ogawa Village, or a rustic converted storehouse in front of Zenko-ji Temple. Under expert guidance, shape the dough, fill it with traditional ingredients, and slow-roast your oyaki over an open hearth fuelled by charcoal and firewood. Enjoy the unforgettable experience of tasting your very own freshly baked, piping-hot oyaki right on the spot.
Heritage
Original, authentic and inspiring. Japanese crafts that support local communities and keep expert skills alive.
Outdoor
Nagano
Autumn Satoyama Wild Mushroom Hunting Adventure
Guided satoyama exploration in Otari Village! Venture off-trail and cross streams to search for wild mushrooms like Naratake and Hanaiguchi. Learn to prep your harvest on-site and taste it in fresh, hot mushroom soup.
Nagano
A Journey Through Stillness – The Zenkoji Kaido Pilgrimage
Trace a 1,400-year-old pilgrimage through Nagano's serene satoyama, exploring historic towns, enjoying scenic hikes, and reflecting on ancient prayers. A journey designed to restore body and spirit through walking and quiet encounters.
Nagano
Cycling the Zenkoji kaido — An E-Bike Journey Through Secret Valleys and Sacred Paths
An exclusive six-hour e-bike journey through northern Nagano's secret valleys, sacred paths, and dramatic gorges. Discover rural Japan's history and natural beauty, enjoying local cuisine and the ease of e-biking for all fitness levels.
Nagano
A Ride Through Tranquility – Discover the Rhythm of Life in Azumino
A scenic e-bike journey through the rural landscapes of Azumino, with the Northern Alps rising in the distance. Visit wasabi farms and orchards, meet the local producers who work the land, and enjoy moments of calm at a local café along with a seasonal lunch.
Nagano
Agematsu Forest Therapy
Guided forest bathing experience at Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest, including walks, museum visits, and optional railway rides and yoga.
Stays
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Featured Itineraries
An Ishikawa Immersion
Experience Ishikawa through timeless craftsmanship, spiritual heritage, and refined cultural traditions
4
Days
/
3
Nights
Slow Travel
Ishikawa Indulged
Indulge in Ishikawa’s refined culture, timeless craftsmanship, and serene hot-spring retreats
3
Days
/
2
Nights
Slow Travel
Kobecopia: Gastronomy for Epicureans
The apex of Japanese culinary icons: sake & wagyu
1
Days
/
0
Nights
Day Trips
Arima Onsen Wellness Retreat
Holistic cultural wellness in the ancient hot spring town of Arima Onsen
3
Days
/
2
Nights
Wellness
Artistry in Harmony with Nature
An Artful Escape from Nasu’s Northern Highlands to Sacred Nikko
3
Days
/
2
Nights
Slow Travel
Nasu: An Exploration of "SHIZEN"
Explore rural Nasu through a lens of SHIZEN, humans and nature in harmony
3
Days
/
2
Nights
Adventure
Matsumoto & Zenkoji Kaido
Journey through time and tranquility on the ancient Zenkoji Kaido.
2
Days
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1
Nights
Adventure
Kiso to Matsumoto
Discover the artistry of Kiso lacquerware and the grandeur of Matsumoto Castle.
2
Days
/
1
Nights
Slow Travel
Toyama Cultural Exploration Tour
Discover the Soul of Toyama — A Three-Day Journey Through Craft, Cuisine, & Culture
3
Days
/
2
Nights
Slow Travel
