If you're dreaming of a destination that beautifully marries nature and culture, Nagano is a must-visit. Renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes, this Japanese city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics, making it a hub for winter sports enthusiasts. But Nagano isn’t just about skiing; it’s also home to the breathtaking Zenko-ji Temple, a historic Buddhist site that attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. Food lovers will delight in Nagano’s culinary offerings, particularly its soba noodles, made from locally grown buckwheat. The region’s fresh produce and artisanal products are a feast for the senses, with farmers' markets showcasing seasonal delights. For those seeking outdoor adventures, the surrounding Japanese Alps provide ample opportunities for hiking, hot springs, and breathtaking views. Don’t miss the chance to soak in an onsen, where relaxation meets stunning natural beauty. Rich in history and surrounded by picturesque scenery, Nagano offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Whether you're exploring ancient temples or enjoying a bowl of steaming soba, this city promises a memorable experience. Fun fact: Nagano is home to the famous snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you can watch these playful primates relax in hot springs!
Nagano, Japan
Top things to do in Nagano
15 attractions, landmarks and museums worth your time, ranked by traveler reviews.
Nagano Prefectural Art Museum
A modern museum showcasing contemporary works by local and international artists, set in a sleek building near Zenkō-ji.
Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum
A comprehensive art museum housing Japanese and Western works, with a strong collection of pieces by Nagano-born artists.
Iizuna Kogen Ski Area
Olympic freestyle skiing venue with varied terrain and stunning views of Nagano's mountains.
Matsushiro Castle
Reconstructed Sengoku-era castle housing a museum of samurai artifacts and local history.
Big Hat
Multipurpose arena that hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the 1998 Winter Olympics.
M-Wave
M-Wave is Japan's first indoor long-track speed skating oval, built for the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics and now a versatile sports and event venue.
White Ring (arena)
White Ring is a multi-purpose arena in Nagano that hosted figure skating and short track speed skating during the 1998 Winter Olympics.
Aqua Wing Arena
Aqua Wing Arena is a swimming venue built for the 1998 Winter Olympics, now a public pool and event space in Nagano.
Nagano Olympic Stadium
Site of the 1998 Winter Olympics opening and closing ceremonies, this multi-purpose stadium now hosts sports and events in Nagano.
Spiral (bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton)
Olympic bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton track offering thrilling tourist rides down the ice chute at high speeds.
Nagano Athletic Stadium
Multi-purpose stadium that hosted football matches during the 1998 Winter Olympics, now a hub for local sports and events.
Nagano Holy Saviour Church
A historic Anglican church built in the early 20th century, featuring distinctive wooden architecture and stained glass windows.
Chōkoku-ji (Nagano)
A 16th-century Buddhist temple with a serene garden, offering a peaceful escape and historical ambiance.
Ōmuro Kofun group
A cluster of ancient burial mounds from the Kofun period, designated as a historic site offering a glimpse into early Japanese history.
Zenkō-ji
One of Japan's oldest and most revered Buddhist temples, Zenkō-ji houses a secret Buddha statue revealed only once every seven years.
Tickets & tours
Skip the queue in Nagano
Compare live prices for entry tickets, guided tours and day trips from trusted local operators.
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.