Discover the True Character of Nagano on a Personalized Tour

As one of the most important cities in Central Japan, Nagano spoils visitors for choice when it comes to deciding what to do and see. From its famous temple to historic shopping streets and an enticing food and art scene, Nagano is best experienced on a private tour tailored to suit your needs and interests.

 

Experience Nagano through local eyes

We are proud of our city and want you to enjoy the best possible experience while you’re here. Let us share our knowledge and passion for Nagano by crafting a private tour that matches your interests and travel itinerary. More than just a guided experience, our private tours are designed to reveal both the history and the contemporary character of Nagano in a way that only a local can.

Most visitors to Nagano head straight for the nearby mountains of Hakuba or the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, often skipping over the city itself. While the surrounding nature is a big part of local life and certainly worth seeing, there is just as much to explore in central Nagano, including the sacred Zenkoji Temple and the historic streets that surround it.

 

Craft an Itinerary That Suits Your Tastes

While you are here, we would also love to introduce you to a local tea ceremony experience, or perhaps a visit to a nearby sake brewery. After all, Nagano is known for producing some of Japan’s finest sake. You can also try one of our popular samurai katana sword workshops for a more hands-on cultural experience. The choice is yours!

We will create an itinerary based on your interests, our recommendations, or a mix of both. Accompanied by a locally based, English-speaking guide, you will explore the city while your guide enhances every aspect of your visit with their knowledge of Nagano. They are there to assist however you need. Looking for recommendations on where to stay, the best local restaurants, nightlife, or your next destination? We are here to help before, during, and even after your visit.

 

What to expect?

Available daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm, your private and fully personalized tour can include up to three of the following activities:*

• Nagano Zenkoji Temple Town Walking Tour
• Former Sake Brewery Tour & Guided Tasting
• Samurai Sword Fighting Workshop
• Tea Ceremony Experience
• Nagano Prefectural Art Museum (or other museums in downtown)

*Other venues and activities can be included for an additional fee. Please see our Tours & Activities pages for details.

While the tour is fully customizable and completely up to you, we are happy to help you plan your day with a recommended itinerary. Our suggestions include a visit to the sacred Zenkoji Temple and the nearby historic district, an immersive samurai katana sword-fighting class, and a local sake tasting to round out a perfect day in Nagano City.

 

Additional Information

 

Meeting Location:Pick-up details will be confirmed by email a few days before your activity.

Group Type: Private Tour

Allergies: Please let us know if you have any food allergies or other restrictions.

Important information:

• The tour schedule will be agreed upon in advance. We reserve the right to adjust the schedule in the event of unexpected venue closures, inclement weather, or other unforeseen circumstances.
• The tour may finish earlier or later depending on crowds, especially at popular locations such as Zenkoji Temple during weekends and holiday periods.
• The lunch venue will be selected in advance in consultation with you.
• This is a walking tour. Transportation is not included. Should you wish to use public transport during the tour, please be prepared to cover those costs directly on the day.
• Please wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.

Suggested Itinerary:

• Zenkoji Temple Walking Tour (approx. 3 hours)
• Lunch at a Local Restaurant (approx. 1 hour)
• Samurai Sword Fighting Experience (approx. 1 hour)
• Former Sake Brewery Tour a Guided Tasting (approx. 1 hour)

This plan offers a full and balanced day, blending cultural discovery with hands-on experiences and local flavors.

Cancellation Policy: To receive a full refund, cancel up to 24 hours before the experience start date in the local time zone. No refunds will be given after that time period.

Terms & Conditions: Please read our Terms & Conditions