Enjoy sightseeing in Nagano in winter! Introducing sightseeing spots, gourmet food, and hot springs

What kind of place is Nagano Prefecture?

Nagano Prefecture is the fourth largest prefecture in Japan, with a population of 2 million. It is located in the center of the Japanese archipelago, and although it does not face the sea, it boasts an abundance of nature, including mountains and rivers. There are many tourist attractions, and it is relatively easy to access from the urban centers of the Kanto and Kansai regions, so many people visit the prefecture for sightseeing. Recently, the number of overseas tourists who come to Japan in winter to see snow monkeys and enjoy powder snow in Nagano has also increased.

Basic information about winter in Nagano

The latest average winter temperatures in Nagano Prefecture are as follows:

Maximum temperatures (2023-2024) December: 8.7℃, January: 5.5℃, February: 6.5℃

Minimum temperatures (2023-2024) December: -1.5℃, January: -3.9℃, February: -2.4℃

Mornings and evenings are expected to be quite chilly, with bitterly cold weather expected. However, there are days when the temperature unexpectedly rises during the day, so please be mindful of what you wear. It is recommended that you wear an extra layer under your thick coat, jumper, or sweater so that you can take it off depending on the temperature. It is a good idea to wear two pairs of socks, or prepare thick socks just in case.

If you are heading to mountainous areas or high plateaus, it is a good idea to bring an extra layer of cold weather gear.

Transportation

Here we will introduce how to get to Nagano Prefecture from Tokyo. There are two main ways to get there: by Shinkansen or by bus.

To take the Shinkansen, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station (travel time: about 1 hour and 50 minutes). There are many Shinkansen trains, so you can travel in the shortest time possible. If there's a downside, it could be that it can be difficult to travel with large luggage.

The bus option has the advantage that you can choose your boarding point, such as Tokyo Station, the Odaiba area, Haneda Airport, Narita Airport (Chiba), and Yokohama (Kanagawa). The travel time is long (about 4 hours) and the number of buses per day is limited, but you don't have to transfer. This is a recommended method of transportation for those visiting Nagano Prefecture for the first time.

For travel within Nagano Prefecture, it is convenient to use JR or private trains, and then take a bus or taxi from the station. Since you will be traveling through mountainous areas a lot, be sure to allow yourself plenty of time when traveling between each spot. For experienced travelers, renting a car is a good option, but driving on snowy roads can be slippery. We recommend using public transport whenever possible.

[Tourism] 7 spots where you can enjoy classic tourist destinations and winter-only scenery

Here we will introduce 7 popular tourist spots in Nagano Prefecture, as well as spots where you can enjoy winter-only scenery. Please note that there is a possibility that places may be closed or their business hours may change due to bad weather or events. Please check in advance before visiting.

Jigokudani Monkey Park: Where you can see snow monkeys

Jigokudani Monkey Park is a popular tourist spot where you can see Japanese macaques bathing in hot springs only during the winter. They are also known overseas as snow monkeys, and many foreign tourists visit every year. Located at an altitude of 850m, Jigokudani Monkey Park is in a harsh environment, covered in snow for almost one-third of the year. Ancient people named it Jigokudani (Hell Valley) because of the sheer cliffs and the hot spring steam rising everywhere.

The mountain path, about a 30-minute walk from the entrance, is rich in nature and is home to many wild animals other than monkeys. Pamphlets are available in Japanese, English and Chinese at the park. Please read the prohibitions carefully and follow the rules to enjoy the snow monkeys.

Matsumoto Castle: A beautiful contrast between black and white

Matsumoto Castle, designated as a national treasure, is the oldest castle in Japan with a six-story wooden castle tower. You can see the Alps in the distance, and enjoy the spectacular black and white contrast. In addition to viewing the castle tower, we also recommend taking a leisurely stroll around the castle.

Every year around the end of January, the "National Treasure Matsumoto Castle Ice Carving Festival" is held. Ice sculptors from all over the world gather to enliven Matsumoto Castle in the winter. At night, the "Matsumoto City Illumination" event is also held, and the illuminated ice sculptures are truly magical. Be sure to visit during this event.

"Zenkoji Temple" where you can enjoy shopping on Nakamise Street, the approach to the temple

Zenkoji Temple is a large temple representing Nagano Prefecture. Within the temple grounds, there are 39 lodgings where you can stay overnight and experience Buddhism. Among them, there are lodgings (11 locations) that can accommodate foreign tourists, and we recommend experiencing Japanese Buddhist customs such as copying sutras and Zen meditation.

In addition, Nakamise-dori Street is located on the approach to Zenkoji Temple, where you can enjoy shopping. It is a fun street to just walk through, with shops selling Nagano's famous sweets and souvenirs, pickle shops, cafes, restaurants, and more. It is recommended that you first visit Zenkoji Temple, and then take a leisurely stroll.

Every year in early February, the Nagano Taimyo Festival is held, and the area around Zenkoji Temple is lit up. If you are staying nearby, be sure to check it out.

Lake Suwa: Fun for the whole family with sightseeing boats and smelt fishing

Lake Suwa, which has a circumference of about 16 km, is a tourist spot where families can enjoy sightseeing boats and smelt fishing. There are two types of sightseeing boats, and the swan-shaped "Suwan-go" is particularly popular with children. It takes about 25 minutes to go around the lake, and takes in the scenic spots of Lake Suwa, such as Hatsushima Island and Shimo-Suwa Pier. On a clear day, you can even see Mt. Fuji.

Smelt fishing, which is only available in the winter, is also popular. You don't need to prepare anything, as fishing rods and bait are provided, so you can drop in anytime. Lake Suwa gets even colder in the winter, but there's no need to worry about smelt fishing. Fishing can be done from a boat surrounded by a dome-shaped vinyl, so even small children can enjoy it with peace of mind.

"Nakasendo Narai-juku" - A landscape that makes you feel like you've traveled back in time to the Edo period

"Nakasendo Narai-juku" is a tourist spot where you can enjoy a townscape that makes you feel like you've traveled back in time to the Edo period. Recently, it has become popular with many foreign tourists.

It's great to take pictures of the buildings and streets with your camera in hand, but we also recommend enjoying a meal. The restaurants in Narai-juku offer a wide variety of food, from Japanese cuisine such as udon, soba, and pork cutlets to authentic pizza baked in a stone oven. Nagano specialties such as oyaki and gohei mochi are also sold, so we recommend taking a short break before exploring.

No need to worry about rain or snow! Harmo Museum: Experience the world's masterpieces

The Harmo Museum, which opened in 1990, is a tourist spot where you can enjoy art appreciation even on rainy or snowy days. The museum has a permanent exhibition of paintings by French painter Henri Rousseau and other artists known as naive artists who expressed free sensibility from a pure perspective.

The Teacent Hall, which displays prints, has a beautiful open-ceilinged space and is sometimes used for concerts. It is a museum worth visiting as a place to promote culture and art regardless of genre. Inside the building, there is also a tea room with a panoramic view of Lake Suwa and Mt. Fuji, as well as a museum shop selling original goods, making it a spot where you can take your time and enjoy yourself.

Nagano Prefectural Museum of History: Learn about Nagano's history with your children

The Nagano Prefectural Museum of History is a tourist spot where you can learn about the history of life in Nagano with your children. The permanent exhibits trace the history of life from ancient times to the present. The model of a Naumann's elephant on display in the primitive area is particularly impressive. Why not take a commemorative photo with it?

There is also an ancient area where earthenware and pottery excavated in Nagano Prefecture are on display, and an early modern area where you can learn about the lifestyle of farmers in the Edo period. In the medieval, early modern, and modern/contemporary areas, you can see buildings that recreate the appearance of Nagano Prefecture at that time. It's a spot full of things to see that you can enjoy at your leisure.

[Food] 5 recommended foods to try when you visit Nagano

Nagano Prefecture, rich in nature, is also home to many delicious delicacies. In particular, food made using natural spring water from the Alps is a specialty of Nagano Prefecture. Here we will introduce five of the most classic Nagano delicacies.

"Shinshu Soba" is famous for Togakushi Soba, one of the three great soba in Japan

If you visit Nagano Prefecture, the first thing you should try is Shinshu soba. Blessed with a cool climate and clean water that are perfect for making soba, Nagano Prefecture is famous for its large production of soba. There are various theories, but it is said that the technique of "sobakiri," in which soba is cut into long, thin strips with a knife, originated in Nagano Prefecture.

Among the soba noodles that have been loved by the people of Nagano for a long time, the most famous one is "Togakushi soba." It is known as one of the three great soba noodles in Japan, along with Wankosoba from Iwate Prefecture and Izumo soba from Shimane Prefecture. Please try "Zaru soba," which allows you to enjoy the flavor of soba to the fullest, even in the cold winter.

A hearty and hearty gourmet dish: "Sanzokuyaki"

Sanzoku-yaki, a boldly grilled chicken thigh dish, is known as a specialty dish of Matsumoto City and Shiojiri City. It's very simple to make; just marinate the chicken in a soy sauce sauce with plenty of garlic, coat it in potato starch and deep fry until crispy. The trick to making delicious sanzoku-yaki is to make it crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

It can be eaten with rice or as a snack with alcohol, and has become a popular local gourmet dish among children and adults alike. Recently, it can be found not only in Matsumoto and Shiojiri, but also at ski resorts and izakayas throughout Nagano Prefecture, so if you come across it, give it a try.

"Sake" made in Nagano, the kingdom of sake rice

Along with delicious gourmet food, another popular Nagano specialty is sake. Nagano Prefecture has 75 sake breweries, and produces a lot of sake, even more than anywhere else in Japan. Nagano Prefecture is not only blessed with abundant natural water, but is also known for its rice cultivation, which is rare nationwide and is perfect for producing sake.

Sake made from rice and water grown in Nagano goes well with Nagano cuisine. If you go to an izakaya that sells Nagano sake, they will be able to tell you the best way to pair it with your drink. Try finding your favorite sake while savoring the local cuisine. The recommended way to drink sake in winter is moderately warmed hot sake. It's the perfect drink to soothe your chilled body.

"Oyaki" with a variety of fillings such as Nozawana, eggplant, red bean paste, and cheese

The first finger food to come to mind in Nagano Prefecture is "Oyaki." Oyaki is a soul food of the people of Nagano Prefecture, made by wrapping ingredients such as vegetables in dough made from flour such as wheat, millet, buckwheat, and rice, and then slowly baking it.

The most common fillings for oyaki are savory, using Nagano specialties such as Nozawana and eggplant, but recently sweet fillings such as red bean paste and cheese have also become popular. The baking method is also different, with each shop doing things differently, from steamed to deep-fried, so it's fun to try different types. They are recommended not only as a snack to take a break from sightseeing in Nagano, but also as a souvenir. You can find them pretty much anywhere in Nagano, so if you come across them, give them a try.

Wasabi, a condiment representative of Japan, grown in the pure waters of Shinshu

Nagano Prefecture is the largest producer of wasabi, one of Japan's most famous seasonings. Among them, the Daio Wasabi Farm, which uses meltwater from the Northern Alps to grow wasabi, is now a popular spot visited by tourists from both within Japan and overseas.

The main feature of Daio Wasabi Farm is that wasabi can be harvested all year round, so you can enjoy freshly picked wasabi regardless of the season. At the restaurant "Yusui Meigama Daioan" located inside the farm, we recommend the set of raw wasabi and Shinshu soba noodles. At another restaurant, "Restaurant OASIS," you can enjoy fresh wasabi with grilled beef and pork dishes.

"Daioh Wasabi Farm"

Address: 3640 Hotaka, Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture

Business hours: 9:00-16:00 *December to February

Price: Free

Access: About 10 minutes by taxi from Hotaka Station on the JR Oito Line

Official website: https://www.daiowasabi.co.jp

[Hot springs] Hot springs are the best way to spend the cold winter! Introducing our top 5 recommended hot springs and inns

Hot springs are the best way to spend the cold winter in Japan. In fact, Nagano Prefecture has 192 hot springs, the second most in Japan after Hokkaido. We will introduce 5 recommended hot springs in Nagano Prefecture, the hot spring powerhouse, and accommodations where you can enjoy them.

(From the Ministry of the Environment's "2021 Hot Spring Usage Status")

Yudanaka Shibu Onsen, a representative hot spring resort of Nagano Prefecture

Yudanaka Shibu Onsenkyo refers to nine hot spring towns along the three rivers that flow through Yamanouchi Town, Shimotakai District, Nagano Prefecture. The ski resort area of Shiga Kogen is also nearby, so you can enjoy snow activities there as well. The most popular hot spring towns in Yudanaka Shibu Onsenkyo are Shibu Onsen and Yudanaka Onsen.

Shibu Onsen is a hot spring town that still retains the nostalgic atmosphere of the Showa era. The stone-paved streets are lined with inns, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Enjoy a stroll through the town, stopping off to buy Shibu Onsen's specialty bread and mochi. If you are staying overnight at Shibu Onsen, we also recommend touring the nine baths. Why not don a yukata and explore the nine outdoor baths, each with its own unique atmosphere, to soothe your travel fatigue?

It is said that hot springs at Yudanaka Onsen first gushed forth from the rice fields. The hot springs were discovered over 1,350 years ago, and because there are several springs, you can enjoy hot springs of various qualities. There are also many historical sites related to hot springs, such as temples and shrines, so you can enjoy a stroll around while experiencing Japanese culture.

Historical Inn Kanaguya (Shibu Onsen)

We recommend the Rekishi no Yado Kanaguya in Shibu Onsen, a hot spring inn with charming old-fashioned architecture. Part of the building has been designated a national tangible cultural property, and you can feel the warmth of the wooden architecture. It is also said to have been the model for the famous Ghibli film Spirited Away. There is no record of anyone actually staying there, but you will feel as if you have entered the world of the anime.

All of the hot springs are 100% natural spring water, and there are three large baths and five private baths. Each of the three large baths has a different spring quality, so it might be interesting to compare them. In particular, the "Ryuzui Open-Air Bath" boasts a large bathtub and is an open-air hot spring that spreads out on the rooftop. The spring quality is said to be "beautiful skin water" and is popular with both men and women.

Yorozuya (Yudanaka Onsen)

"Yorozuya," a recommended inn in Yudanaka Onsen, is a long-established inn that has been in business for over 200 years. Once you pass through the entrance, you will find a space where Japanese tradition and functional beauty are in harmony, allowing you to spend a relaxing time. In the lobby lounge, there is an antique music box that has been passed down for generations, and it plays a gentle melody. Together with the washi paper lamps that decorate the lobby, it will warmly welcome guests.

The hot spring is known as a spring that grants longevity, and many famous people have visited it since ancient times to soothe themselves. Of the five baths, including a private bath, the Momoyama bath in the main building is a must-try. The bathhouse, a registered tangible cultural property built in pure wooden temple architecture, exudes the atmosphere of Japan's good old days. Day-trip bathing is not available, so this is an exquisite space that can only be enjoyed by guests staying overnight. Enjoy the open-air garden bath, where you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons, and take your time to relax.

Nozawa Onsen: Enjoy a tour of 13 outdoor baths

Nozawa Onsen is famous as a hot spring resort where you can enjoy touring the 13 outdoor baths scattered around the hot spring town. The outdoor baths, which have been protected by villagers under a system called "Yunakama" since the Edo period, are 100% natural hot spring water. Even though they are outdoor baths, they are always managed, so the bathrooms are kept clean. After relaxing in the outdoor baths, we recommend stopping by a restaurant or souvenir shop. In particular, you can enjoy the local specialty seasoning of Nozawana pickles, a staple of Nagano cuisine.

Also, don't forget about "onsen tamago" (hot spring eggs), which are cooked using the heat of the hot springs at Nozawa Onsen. Some public baths are equipped with kettles for making onsen tamago (hot spring eggs). Buy some eggs at a shop in the hot spring town and give it a try.

Nozawa View Hotel Shimadaya (Nozawa Onsen)

Nozawa View Hotel Shimadaya, where you can enjoy the spectacular view of Mount Kenashi and the Chikuma Valley spreading out below, is located within a short walking distance of three of the 13 outdoor baths (Shinyu, Kumano Iriyazuru, and Terayu). The hotel is located in a great location where you can fully enjoy sightseeing in Nozawa Onsen, including Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort.

Nozawa View Hotel Shimada offers a full range of in-house services, and there is a kids' room next to the lobby. This space is popular with families with small children, as it is filled with toys and picture books. There are also staff members who can speak multiple languages, so this is a hotel where international tourists can stay with peace of mind.

Of course, the hot springs are also popular, and the large public bath has large windows that offer a spectacular view of the Nagano mountains. The mineral-rich spring water leaves your skin smooth. After the hot springs, you can relax in the bar where you can enjoy Japanese sake, or in the lounge space where you can read while sipping coffee.

"Hirugami Onsen" where you can enjoy a starry sky

Hirugami Onsen is located in Achi Village, Nagano Prefecture, which is known as the village with the most beautiful starry sky in Japan, as certified by the Ministry of the Environment. Winter is especially great for stargazing, as there are many bright stars and the air is clear. However, Hirugami Onsen gets very cold at night in the middle of winter. Be sure to take precautions against the cold, such as wearing a thick down coat, gloves, socks, and snow boots, before enjoying stargazing.

There are many accommodation facilities in the hot springs, mainly along the Achi River. The hot springs are of such high quality that they are said to have skin-beautifying properties, and many tourists visit to enjoy the hot springs and starry skies. The hot springs are also popular with foreign tourists.

Hirugami Grand Hotel Tenshin (Hirugami Onsen)

The Hirugami Grand Hotel Tenshin, which values the Japanese spirit, is located in the center of Hirugami Onsen town. It is also right in front of the Hirugami Onsen Morning Market, which is held every morning, 365 days of the year. The guest rooms are designed with the concept of peace of mind, and you can spend a relaxing time listening to the sounds of Hirugami's nature, such as the murmuring of the river and the chirping of birds.

The hot springs are proud of the garden open-air bath "Tenchi no Yu" and the large open-air bath with a view "Teppen no Yu". At Tenchi no Yu, you can fully enjoy the spring quality of Hirugami Onsen, and the bathroom features a refined, purely Japanese design. And at Teppen no Yu, the hot spring water fills the entire seventh floor, and you can enjoy a panoramic view of Hirugami Onsen town. Please enjoy both to your heart's content.

Omachi Onsenkyo, located at the foot of the Northern Alps

Omachi Onsenkyo is a quiet hot spring resort surrounded by birch and beech forests at the foot of the Northern Alps. The hot spring water is drawn from Kuzu Onsen in Takase Valley, and there are a dozen inns and hotels scattered around the area, including day-trip bathing facilities. In summer, it is an ideal hot spring as a base for sightseeing in the Hakuba area, which is densely packed with ski resorts, and in winter.

Although it is a relatively small hot spring resort, it is easily accessible as express buses from the Tokyo area also stop there. It is a recommended hot spring resort for those who want to use the express bus to enjoy the hot springs of Nagano Prefecture, and for those who want to enjoy skiing and snowboarding as well as sightseeing.

Kurobe Kanko Hotel (Omachi Onsen)

Kurobe Kanko Hotel, perfectly located as a base for sightseeing at Kurobe Dam, is the oldest hotel in Omachi Onsenkyo. All 93 rooms offer views of the magnificent nature of Shinshu, allowing you to refresh your body and mind. There are a wide variety of accommodation plans available, including a family plan with plenty of perks for families with children. Another attraction is the buffet-style dinner, the only one in Omachi Onsenkyo. Since you can eat as much as you like of whatever you like, it is very popular with children and overseas tourists alike.

There are two hot spring baths, each with a different atmosphere: the "Stone Bath" made with rocks from the Northern Alps, and the "Wood Bath" with the scent of cypress. Both baths are alternated between men and women in the evening and morning, so we recommend you stay overnight and enjoy both. Both also have open-air baths where you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons.

"Hakuba area" where you can enjoy some of Japan's leading ski resorts

When you think of Hakuba, the first thing that comes to mind is ski resorts, and the Hakuba area is dotted with many ski resorts, but it also has an abundance of hot springs. There are six hot springs, including Hakuba Happo Onsen, a natural hydrogen hot spring, Hakuba Himekawa Onsen, which has water that is gentle on the skin and has mild water, Hakuba Shionomichi Onsen, which turns brown when exposed to air, and Hakuba Ryujin Onsen, which has the largest hot spring facility in the area and where you can enjoy a bath with a view of the snow in the winter.

Most of the accommodations where you can enjoy hot springs are adjacent to ski resorts or within walking distance, so you can enjoy both hot springs and snow activities. For this reason, most people stay in winter for skiing and snowboarding. Popular hotels and inns are fully booked even before the winter season begins, so we recommend making reservations early.

Hakuba Mominoki Hotel (Hakuba Happo Onsen)

Hakuba Mominoki Hotel is a resort hotel with 75 rooms, nestled in the forest at the foot of the Northern Alps. The interior is decorated with warm, elegant antique furniture, creating a luxurious and quiet space. The vast grounds also include a restaurant, bar (some open only in winter) and a visitor's center, making it a well-equipped accommodation facility where you can relax. In winter, the hotel is particularly popular with visitors, as it has good access to Hakuba's ski resorts.

The hotel offers a wide range of attractive guest rooms, including log cabins that are perfect for large group trips and family rooms where families can stay comfortably.

The hot spring water used is from Hakuba Happo Onsen, also known as the "beauty bath." The spring water is said to be effective in removing dirt and dead skin cells from the skin, leaving it feeling silky smooth. The open-air bath, "Shobee no Yu," is especially popular, as it offers spectacular views of the four seasons.

Hakuba Highland Hotel (Hakuba Himekawa Onsen)

The 6-story Hakuba Highland Hotel, the tallest hotel in Hakuba Village, offers a panoramic view of the Hakuba mountain range in the Alps. The hotel offers a rooftop (3rd floor) "Sorayama Terrace" where you can enjoy the spectacular views of the four seasons, private rooms that can be used as workcation spaces, and a spacious lobby with a fireplace, and the hotel's meticulous service is sure to please anyone who stays here.

The hot spring water used is Hakuba Himekawa Onsen, a private hot spring source. Warabi-daira no Yu, which is exclusively for guests staying overnight, has two baths with different atmospheres, "Stone Bath" and "Rock Bath," each boasting a 10m-long open-air bath with a mirror-like surface in front of it. On a clear day, you can see the "inverted three mountains" of Hakuba reflected in the mirror-like surface of the water. Even for day trips, there is the large panoramic bath "Tenjin no Yu" where you can get a full view of the Northern Alps. Take your time to enjoy the scenery that changes with the seasons and time of day.

[Ski Resorts] Nagano's winter staple! 5 ski resorts where you can enjoy powder snow

Lastly, there is the classic winter spot in Nagano: ski resorts. Nagano Prefecture is known for its ski resorts, which offer some of the best powder snow in the country, attracting skiers and snowboarders from not only Japan but all over the world.

We will introduce five ski resorts that are recommended not only for those who enjoy skiing and snowboarding every year, but also for those who want to try it while sightseeing in Nagano in the winter.

Hakuba Happoone Ski Resort

Hakuba Happo-one Ski Resort, located in Happo, Hakuba Village, is one of Japan's most well-established ski resorts, having opened in 1928. From the summit, located at an altitude of 1,830m, you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the Hakuba Sanzan mountains of the Northern Alps, as well as Mt. Myoko, the Togakushi mountain range, Mt. Asama, and the Yatsugatake mountain range.

The main attraction of Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort is the quality of its snow. It was also the venue for the Nagano Olympics in 1998, and has some of the best powder snow in Japan, so skiers and snowboarders from all over the world gather here every year.

Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort has a longest run of 8,000m and has a total of 16 courses. Because there are many courses that attract advanced skiers, you may have the impression that it is difficult.

However, there are beginner courses, as well as a snowland and kids' park where small children can play on sleds and other play equipment. There are also accommodations and restaurants in the surrounding area, making this a ski resort that the whole family can enjoy.

Shiga Kogen Ski Resort

Shiga Kogen Ski Resort is one of Japan's largest mountain resorts, located in Joshinetsu Kogen National Park. From Yokoteyama Shibutoge Ski Resort, the highest at 2,307m, to Sun Valley Ski Resort at 1,400m, there are 18 ski resorts, large and small, gathered in the vast plateau. Each ski resort can be easily accessed by lift, gondola, or shuttle bus.

There are many recommended spots depending on your purpose and level. For example, Maruike Ski Resort, which has Maruike Snow Land, is a good choice for families with small children. The facility is equipped with moving walkways, carousels, and play equipment, making it a safe area for first-time snow play.

If you want to enjoy the finest powder snow, we recommend Yokoteyama Shibutoge Ski Resort. It is the highest ski resort in Japan, and from the top you can see Mt. Kasa-dake up close, and on a clear day you can even see Mt. Fuji.

This is a ski resort that everyone can enjoy, from small children to those aiming to compete in serious races.

Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort

Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, located in Nozawa Onsen Village, is a beautiful ski resort surrounded by beech forests that opened in 1924. It was also the venue for the biathlon at the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. There are 44 courses and a snow park, with the longest run being an astounding 10,000m. On the day after snowfall, some of the courses are left ungroomed, allowing you to enjoy the powder snow that Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort is so proud of.

Of course, there are areas for children to enjoy, such as Hikage Kids Park, which has fluffy houses and sleds to play in. On the second floor of the Hikage Information Center, there is a nursery staffed by qualified childcare workers.

Furthermore, the Hikage slope is famous for the Zip Skyride, which descends 122 meters in altitude in one go, making it a snow activity that adults can enjoy as well. There is also the Japan Ski Museum, where you can learn about the history of skiing, and the many ways to enjoy Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort are also part of its appeal.

Ryuo Ski Park

Ryuo Ski Park in the Kitashiga Kogen area is a ski resort where 70% of the visitors are snowboarders. Many people, from beginners to advanced skiers, visit the resort to step up their game, and one of the resort's biggest features is the "Snowboard Debut Area," where approximately 7,000 people made their snowboarding debut in the 2022-2023 season.

Ryuo Snow Park has five slopes and six courses, where you can enjoy a long run of about 6,000m with an elevation difference of over 1,000m. The "Ki-Otoshi Course" boasts a maximum slope of 36 degrees and is an ungroomed course of about 1,400m in length, making it a famous attraction of Ryuo Snow Park. This ski resort is recommended for those who want to enjoy snowboarding to the fullest.

In addition, the SORA terrace cafe, located right next to the ropeway summit station, has themed seating arrangements, including a relaxing sofa space. The cafe also has a fireplace and a cafe bar, making it a great choice for those who want to enjoy a luxurious space.

Madarao Ski Resort

Madarao Kogen Ski Resort in Iiyama City is said to be the ski resort with the most tree run courses in Japan. The courses are natural terrain courses that leave the trees intact, and run through managed forests. In addition, because it is located in one of Japan's heaviest snowfall areas, during the high season it is a popular powder area known as "Madapow."

Among the courses, there are tree run courses that the whole family can enjoy. The three courses, Rabbit Course, Kamoshika Course, and Bear Course, are located below the middle part of the ski resort, and allow you to enjoy tree runs in relative safety. However, even though they are family-friendly, they are adventure courses for intermediate and advanced skiers, so please do not push yourself too hard.

This is a ski resort recommended for those who want to fully enjoy tree running or for those who want to enjoy tree running with their family.

The Snowliner is a convenient way to travel from Tokyo to Nagano for sightseeing in the winter!

What do you think? We recommend enjoying winter sightseeing in Nagano along with hot springs and snow activities. The direct bus "Snow Liner" that departs from Tokyo is a convenient way to visit winter sightseeing in Nagano, which is full of attractions.

The Snowliner allows you to choose your boarding and disembarking points, so you can travel directly from Tokyo Station, Haneda Airport, and Narita Airport to the Nagano area. It also operates daily during the winter season from December 15, 2023 to March 29, 2024. Another appealing feature is that the pricing is easy to understand, making it easy to make reservations.

For more information, please see the official website, which is available in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean.

Snowliner reservations here