Nagano Prefecture is brimming with incredible sights, from the majestic Japan Alps to various historic landmarks, and even the popular park where monkeys bathe in hot springs. However, many of these must-visit destinations are scattered across the area, making public transportation inconvenient or even inaccessible for some spots. A rental car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, taking in the beauty of hidden gems alongside iconic attractions.

With a car, you can craft a flexible itinerary, stop for breathtaking views, and enjoy local flavors from charming roadside spots. It's the easiest way to fully enjoy the unique experiences Nagano has to offer.

The area of Nagano that we will introduce here is filled with diverse attractions.

Zenkoji Temple, the symbol of Nagano, has a history of over 1,000 years and brings peace of mind to all who visit.

In the Togakushi area, you can visit the serene Togakushi Shrine and enjoy the local specialty, Togakushi soba. In Obuse, you can enjoy the townscape associated with Katsushika Hokusai and nosh on delightful chestnut sweets, while in Shiga Kogen, you can enjoy beautiful seasonal scenery, hot springs, and hiking.

At Jigokudani Monkey Park, which is well known among foreign visitors, you can even see Japanese macaques soaking in hot springs.

There are various rental car companies conveniently located near Nagano Station. Be sure to reserve your vehicle in advance to ensure a smooth start to your adventure.

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The first stop on this itinerary is Kagamiike Pond in Togakushi. This stunning pond reflects the Togakushi mountain range, offering seasonal scenery that captivates all who visit. Surrounded by hiking trails, this is the perfect spot to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature in Japan.

Kagamiike Pond lies at the foot of Mount Togakushi, and, along with Togakushi Shrine, has been an object of worship in Shugendo, a spiritual tradition centered on mountain asceticism. Revered as a sacred place deeply rooted in mountain worship, it has been carefully protected along with its surrounding natural environment.

Boardwalks crisscross the area, allowing you to take a leisurely stroll while enjoying nature. When I first visited, I was struck by how the lake’s surface perfectly reflected the Togakushi mountain range, just as its name suggests—“kagami” meaning “mirror” in Japanese.

Kagamiike Pond reveals a unique charm in each season. The fresh greenery of spring, the lush landscape of summer, the firey autumn leaves, and the quiet snowscapes of winter are all stunning in their own way. In particular, the autumn foliage reflected on the lake's surface creates a picturesque scene, making it a popular spot for photographers.

Next, head to Togakushi Shrine, known as one of Japan's leading power spots—locations believed to hold spiritual energy that brings good fortune and revitalization. With a history spanning around 2,000 years, this ancient shrine is surrounded by lush nature and exudes a mystical atmosphere. A sacred site for mountain worship, it features five shrines (Okusha, Chusha, Hokosha, Kuzuryusha, and Hinomikosha), where visitors can quietly offer prayers while walking through the majestic forest.

Togakushi Shrine Chusha has long played a central role in Togakushi Shrine. Since the Middle Ages, Chusha has drawn the devotion of both samurai and common people, particularly warlords and the samurai class, who revered it as a shrine for praying for victory. Even today, it remains a popular destination for worshippers and serves as the focal point of the Five Shrines Tour. The shrine is surrounded by towering cedar trees said to be over 800 years old, creating a solemn and sacred atmosphere that invites reflection.

The area is also home to several soba restaurants, and I recommend having Togakushi soba for lunch in the area. Note that if you are visiting in winter, Shirakaba Shokudo, which will be introduced later, is closed during this season.

After getting some energy at Togakushi Shrine, consider having lunch at Shirakaba Shokudo, located within Togakushi Ranch. However, keep in mind that this restaurant is closed during the winter (mid-November to late April), so if you're visiting during this time, I recommend trying Togakushi soba at one of the restaurants around Togakushi Shrine. For those looking for something other than soba, St. Cousair Winery, which I'll introduce later, offers a delicious alternative and is another excellent lunch option.

Shirakaba Shokudo is a charming restaurant where you can enjoy local flavors, with the famous Togakushi soba being the standout dish. In spring, they feature dishes made with fresh mountain vegetables, while autumn sees dishes featuring seasonal mushrooms. When you order soba, you’ll also receive a complimentary serving of seasonal vegetable tempura, making the meal even more enticing. The restaurant’s interior has a nostalgic Showa (1926-1989) charm, and its friendly service is highly regarded by visitors. Additionally, the restaurant offers the convenience of a large parking lot for guests.

On a clear day, you can enjoy views of the surrounding mountains, and you can immerse yourself in a relaxing atmosphere, including the spacious ranch and nearby campsite.

After lunch, head to St. Cousair Winery, located north of Nagano City. This renowned winery is highly regarded both in Japan and internationally for its exceptional offerings. Set amidst sprawling vineyards and stunning natural scenery, the winery offers tastings, meals, and guided tours of its facilities. However, please note that Japan has strict penalties for drunk driving. If you’re the driver, be sure to refrain from drinking or tasting, and instead enjoy exploring the winery’s other attractions.

The surrounding natural beauty adds to the charm of St. Cousair Winery, offering lovely scenery year-round. During the autumn harvest season (mid-September to October), the vineyards transform into a tapestry of vibrant colors, creating an especially picturesque setting. Beyond wine, the winery also offers jams and sauces made with local ingredients, which are popular as souvenirs for visitors looking to take a taste of Nagano to take home.

When I visited, the free tour was just about to start, so I was able to get around the winery smoothly.

The final destination on Day 1 is Obuse, a charming small town north of Nagano City, famous for its chestnut production. Dotted with traditional buildings and art museums, it is popular among foodies as a place to enjoy Japanese and Western-style sweets made with chestnuts.

During the Edo period, Obuse flourished as a commercial and cultural center, and many historical buildings remain. It is also known as the place where the painter Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849) spent his later years, and you can view his works at the Hokusai Museum.

Obuse offers beautiful scenery in every season. In spring, cherry and peach blossoms bloom, adorning the entire town in vibrant colors. Summer brings lush green trees that provide refreshing shade, perfect for a stroll around town. Autumn is the peak of chestnut harvesting, filling the air with their warm aroma, while the autumn leaves create a picturesque setting. In winter, the snow-covered streets exude a serene charm, and the festive light displays add to the town’s allure. With its ever-changing seasonal beauty, Obuse is a place where you can discover something new with each visit.

If you have time, why not refresh yourself by eating some sweets? I recommend Mont Blanc, which is made with plenty of chestnuts, a specialty of the city.

Yudanaka Onsen is a historic hot spring resort located in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, surrounded by beautiful mountains. It’s about half an hour northeast of Obuse and just off the main road going up to Jigokudani Monkey Park and Shiga Kogen, destinations for tomorrow. Beloved by locals and tourists alike, the area is dotted with many relaxing hot spring inns and outdoor baths.

With a history spanning over 1300 years, Yudanaka Onsen has been flowing since the Heian period. Many historical buildings and accommodations still remain, preserving the area’s timeless charm and historic atmosphere.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve categorized accommodations based on traveler types—solo travelers, couples, and families—and will introduce top recommendations for each.

Conveniently located just a few minutes' walk from Yudanaka Station, Rakuki Onsen Ryokan offers simple, cost-effective accommodations. All 16 rooms are spacious and traditionally Japanese in design, ensuring a comfortable stay.

At the hot spring facility, you can enjoy the hot spring waters of Yudanaka. Breakfast is served in a buffet style, mainly Chinese and Japanese cuisine, and is quite filling.

In addition to low prices and simple facilities, the owners and staff are friendly and provide a homely atmosphere, making it a comfortable stay for individual travelers.

Aburaya Tosen is a modern Japanese-style inn perfect for couples, with plenty of facilities to enjoy alone together. Conveniently located just a seven-minute walk from Yudanaka Station, it offers an open-air bath with mountain views and 11 types of hot springs.

Some rooms come with their own open-air bath, allowing you to relax in a private space. A spa, sauna, and relaxing massages are also available, allowing couples to spend time pampering their bodies and minds.

In addition, the restaurant Nanohana Koji serves local seasonal cuisine in private dining rooms, making it the perfect place for a special dinner.

Issa no Komichi Biyu no Yado is a family-friendly inn located in Yudanaka Onsen town. It features spacious Japanese-style rooms and Japanese-Western style rooms, and some rooms are equipped with private open-air baths.

In the hotel, you can enjoy hot springs directly from the source, and private open-air baths and foot baths are also available. With a great location overlooking the hot spring town and the nature of the four seasons, it offers the perfect stay for a family trip. In addition, you can use nearby hot springs using a Yu-meguri Tegata, making it the perfect place to create memories with your family.

In the private open-air bath, even small children can enjoy the hot springs without worrying about the surroundings, and the dishes made with local ingredients are safe for children. In addition, the spacious Japanese-style rooms and Japanese-Western style rooms allow families to relax in an attractive environment.

The first destination on Day 2 is Jigokudani Monkey Park, a highlight of the trip. This world-famous park offers the unique experience of observing wild Japanese macaques as they soak in natural hot springs. Situated at an altitude of 850 meters, the park is especially enchanting in the winter, when the “snow monkeys” can be seen against a backdrop of snowy landscapes. The heartwarming sight of mother and baby monkeys relaxing with their adorable huddled bodies together in the steaming waters is a favorite among tourists and photography enthusiasts alike.

Jigokudani Monkey Park is particularly popular in winter, but its seasonal scenery makes it a worthwhile destination year-round. In spring, as the snow melts and fresh greenery emerges, monkeys can be seen playfully exploring their surroundings. Summer brings scenes of them relaxing in the shade of the trees in the cool valley, with adorable baby monkeys interacting with their mothers. In autumn, the vibrant red and yellow hues of the leaves creates a stunning contrast with the monkeys. Each season offers a unique experience, and you can enjoy the different charm of each.

The monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park are generally docile, but it’s important to remember they are still wild animals. Avoid disturbing or trying to interact with them directly, as they may retaliate if they feel threatened. Maintain a respectful distance and observe them quietly to avoid causing them stress. In autumn, when the mountains are abundant with fruit, the monkeys may forage away from the park. Additionally, during mating season, some monkeys may temporarily leave their groups. Keep in mind that their presence isn’t guaranteed during these times.

Our next destination after Jigokudani Monkey Park is Shiga Kogen, one of Japan's largest highland resorts, spanning elevations of 1,300 to 2,300 meters above sea level. Recognized as a UNESCO Ecopark, this nature conservation area offers something special in every season. In winter, it is a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding, boasting high-quality snow, while in the summer, it transforms into a refreshing retreat, perfect for hiking and enjoying hot springs. The Forty-Eight Ponds Marsh and Onuma Pond are ideal for hiking and photography, and you can enjoy the different landscapes and rich ecosystems throughout the year.

Shiga Kogen offers a completely different experience in summer and winter. In summer, start by driving to the summit of Mt. Yokote, where your destination is the Yokoteyama Drive-In (Mapcode: 341 587 888*08). From the parking lot, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views. The drive-in serves soba noodles, curry, and soft serve ice cream, and also has a selection of souvenirs. However, in winter (mid-November to late April), the road is closed, making it inaccessible by car in this season.

If you want to see even more spectacular views, take the Yokoteyama Skylator (Mapcode: 341 617 049*12) and the Yokoteyama Sky Pair Lift to the top of Yokoteyama. From there, you can see the Northern Alps and even Mount Fuji on a clear day, which is truly spectacular.

The bread at Yokoteyama Summit Hut, located at the summit of Mt. Yokote, is extremely popular, and some people even come to the summit just to get this bread.

After soaking in the views from the summit of Mt. Yokote, consider taking a leisurely stroll around one of Shiga Kogen’s picturesque ponds or marshes. I recommend Kido Pond (Mapcode: 341 704 371*32) or Tanohara Marsh (Mapcode: 341 734 188*08), both of which are easily accessible as a walking spot to stop off during a drive, and you can stroll through nature while enjoying the atmosphere of the highlands.

In winter, Shiga Kogen is transformed into a bustling ski resort, making it less ideal for general sightseeing aside from enjoying the snowy scenery and hot springs. If you’re traveling during this season, consider spending more time exploring Jigokudani Monkey Park and Zenkoji Temple Town. Another recommendation is to visit Baidozan Ganshoin (Mapcode: 54 415 429*76), where you can admire the ceiling painting "Phoenix," created by Katsushika Hokusai in 1848.

The final destination on this itinerary is Zenkoji Temple. For information on Zenkoji Temple, see here.

Speaking of Zenkoji Temple, one of the fun things to do is sampling some food on your way to Nakamise-dori, the bustling street leading to the temple. There are many different kinds of shops lined up, making it a fun walk.

There is also a stylish Starbucks like this on Nakamise Street.

When I visit here, I look forward to trying Shinshu soba and sweets.

Before your rental car trip in Japan, it's important to be familiar with the following basics.

If it's your first time renting a car in Japan, make sure you familiarize yourself with the process. You can find more details in the article below.

Mapcode assigns a numerical value to locations in Japan, allowing easy identification through car navigation systems. Many modern satnavs support Mapcode input, making it simpler than entering a name, address, or phone number. However, inputting the wrong number can send you to the wrong location, so always double-check your destination. Recently, I always use Mapcode when traveling to new places.

If you're planning to drive in Japan, it's important to learn the basic traffic rules for safety. I recommend the following article, which provides a clear explanation of the rules for foreigners.

What should you do if you need to use the toilet while driving? This can be especially challenging when traveling with children, as they may suddenly declare, "I need to go!"

In Japan, the common options are roadside stations and convenience stores.

Roadside stations are fewer in number but offer not only restrooms but also facilities such as snack shops, souvenir stands, and vending machines, making them a convenient stop.

On the other hand, while convenience stores may not be as fully equipped, they are far more common and can be very handy. However, when using the restroom at a convenience store, it is considered polite to make a small purchase.

For the route introduced here, if you are traveling from spring to autumn, sturdy, non-slip sneakers will be sufficient. However, at places like Kagamiike Pond, Jigokudani Monkey Park, and Shiga Kogen, you will be walking on unpaved roads, so it is best to avoid sandals or high heels. Also, in winter you will be walking on snowy and icy roads, so non-slip, waterproof shoes are essential. Snow tires and chains are also essential for winter travel.

Nagano offers an abundance of attractions, from the historic Zenkoji Temple to the unique Jigokudani Monkey Park and the breathtaking landscapes of Shiga Kogen. These wonderful destinations see history and nature blend together. Pair that with the region’s delicious local cuisine, and you have the makings of a perfect trip. With a rental car, you can explore at your own pace, easily reaching both famous landmarks and hidden gems that are harder to access by public transportation. Enjoy discovering the beauty and charm of the Nagano area on a memorable road trip!