Active Nagano

📍 Time: Start (guided tour): 14:00 Duration: 3h Distance and journey time (approximation): Tokyo Station to Nagano Station: 1.5 h Nagano Station to Old Matsushiro Bus Stop: 20 min

Leave the bustle of Tokyo with a 90 minute Shinkansen ride through the Japanese Alps to reach Nagano.

Nestled in the mountains of Japan’s Northern Alps, Nagano is often referred to as the ‘Roof of Japan’. The city evolved as a temple town around the historic Zenkoji Temple, one of Japan's most popular temples. 

At 14:00, meet a local guide at Old Matsushiro Station Bus Stop and learn about the history of Matsushiro town and the famed Sanada Clan. A short walk leads to the Matshushiro Castle Ruins where old gates and stone walls still remain from the former fortress.

The tour continues at the former Sanada House, the private residence of the Sanada Clan, a rare case where the lord’s residence was separated by the castle. Visit the well preserved home and admire the magnificent scenery of the Japanese Alps in the background of the garden.

The last stop is the Former Bunbu Literary & Military Arts School, where the sons of high ranking samurai learned martial arts, traditional literature, Western medicine and military science. Join a traditional martial art experience such as kyudo archery or aikido hand-to-hand combat (depending on availability), and try on samurai armour for some memorable photos.

Head back to the bus station and part ways with the guide.

Overnight in Nagano
 

Inclusions:

Today is a self-guided day.

Suggested Self-Guided Itinerary: Hiking in Togakushi

Make the journey to Togakushi Shrine complex, consisting of  lower, middle and upper shrines in the forested mountains northwest of Nagano's city center.

The shrines of Togakushi are connected both by roads and hiking trails up the mountain's forested slopes. The suggested bus stop is the Okusha middle shrine, which stands at the top of a small town of shops and restaurants famous for soba noodles. The shrine features a prayer hall with lovely architecture, a small waterfall, and sacred trees which are over 800 years old. From here, a splendid hiking trail leads to the Upper Shrine via Kagamiike ("Mirror Pond"), a serene pond which reflects the surrounding mountain landscape nicely. 

Another highlight of the hiking route is the Zuishinmon Gate and the impressive secular cedar trees lined up along the final part of the trail.

Note also that the Togakure Ninpo Museum is situated just next to the entrance to the upper shrine, while the Kids Ninja Village is close in proximity to the middle shrine, making interesting additions to the shrine visits.

** The access to the upper shrine is closed during winter season and a snowshoeing tour with a guide is available upon request.

Distance and journey time (approximation):
Nagano Station to Togakushi Okusha Bus Stop: 45 min: 50 min

Optional Tour: Shinano Cycling in the Alpine Countryside

Meet a local guide at Kurohime Station for a brief orientation and safety demonstration for the electric mountain bikes before heading out.

Ride around Lake Nojiri and the Kurohime Highland to marvel at breath-taking views of the North Nagano Five Peaks as they dominate the horizon. Stop to marvel at the stunning Naena Waterfall, a hidden gem nestled amidst lush greenery.

Next, delve into the rich history of the region by learning about the fossil excavations of the Naumann Elephant, uncovering the mysteries of the past that lie beneath the surface.

The course follows a 350-year-old irrigation canal, where learn about the ingenuity of traditional water management systems that have sustained communities for centuries.

Stop for lunch in a local restaurant before continuing to explore the historic Tokusa district of Shinano Town, home to a 130-year-old tunnel steeped in history. Feel the echoes of the past while pedalling through this storied landscape before ending the tour back at Kurohime Station.

Time:
Start: 10:00
Duration: 6 h

Distance and journey time (approximation):
Nagano Station to Kurohime station: 30 min
Total cycling distance: approx. 20 km

Overnight in Nagano
 

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

Check out from the hotel and depart for the next destination.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast