Nagano

Japan

Nagano offers a blend of historical charm, stunning natural beauty, and exciting winter sports opportunities. It's famous for its Zenkoji Temple, the Jigokudani Monkey Park, and its role as a host of the 1998 Winter Olympics.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay3 days
Budget$50/day
Mid-range$100/day
Luxury$500/day

Known For

Nagano PrefectureJapanese AlpsZenko-ji TempleMatsumotoHakubaShiga Kogen

🇯🇵 Country Information: Japan

CapitalTokyo
CurrencyJapanese yen (¥)
LanguageJapanese , English,Korean,Chinese
Phone Code+81
Electricity100V (Type A, B)
Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

\* Tipping is not common and may be considered rude

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available
  • Credit cards accepted in cities but less so in rural areas
  • Cash is still common
  • No black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Bowing is a common greeting
  • Shoes must be removed indoors
  • Talking on phones in trains is frowned upon

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. LGBTQ+ rights are improving, but legal marriage is not yet recognized

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 20
  • Drug laws are very strict, even for small amounts of marijuana

Special Laws

  • Tattoos may bar entry to hot springs
  • No public smoking outside designated areas

Common Phrases

HelloKonnichiwa (koh-nee-chee-wah) こんにちは
Thank youArigatou (ah-ree-gah-toh) ありがとう

Climate

Nagano is a mountainous prefecture with distinct seasons and significant snowfall.

Climate Zone: Continental Cool

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Shinshu Soba regional_speciality

Nagano, formerly known as Shinshu, is famous for its high-quality buckwheat noodles. The clean water and climate are ideal for growing buckwheat, resu

Oyaki street_food

Oyaki are steamed or roasted dumplings made from a flour and water dough, typically filled with savory ingredients like mountain vegetables, local mis

Gohei Mochi snack

This is a grilled skewered rice cake brushed with a sweet and savory sauce, often made from walnuts, sesame, or miso. It’s a rustic dish commonly foun

Basashi (Horse Meat) regional_speciality

Basashi, or raw horse meat, is a regional delicacy in Nagano, enjoyed for its lean tenderness and sweet flavor. It is often served thinly sliced, acco

Apple Products seasonal

Nagano is one of Japan's top apple-producing prefectures, known for varieties like Fuji and Shinano Sweet. Apples are used in various forms, from fres

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Accommodation in Hakuba/Shiga Kogen (Winter) Accommodation
Book 2–6 months in advance, especially for desirable ski-in/ski-out lodges.

Ski season accommodation, particularly highly-rated hotels or specific lodge types, sells out rapidly, especially for weekends and holidays.

Fun Facts

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