A beautiful part of Japan, the Nagano Prefecture has become increasingly popular with visitors looking to escape Tokyo for the weekend. Just a few hours from the city by train, it’s a brilliant retreat for keen hikers, bird watchers and traditional spa-goers. The region is also home to some bustling cities of its own. Nagano, once a temple town, gained fame in hosting the 1998 Winter Olympics, whilst Matsumoto is best known for its striking castle. Many of the best places to stay in the Nagano Prefecture are clustered around Matsumoto, but our Gurus have also highlighted some superb rural hideaways.
Built around the imposing Buddhist Zenkoji Temple, Nagano expanded during the 20th century to encompass a number of nearby towns. The Winter Olympics fuelled further growth in and around the city, which continues to act as the gateway to the forested mountains which hide ancient Shinto shrines, bubbling hot springs and an abundance of bird life. Spend your days trekking, mountain biking and bird watching, or sinking into healing onsens after savouring delicious regional specialities.
Togakushi Village is another highlight. Don’t miss touring Togakushi Shrine or the Togakushi Folk Museum whilst in the area. Matsumoto, with its Museum of Art as well as the Ukiyoe Museum and a plethora of antique shops, is charming and well worth a day trip or romantic overnight stay. Boat trips on scenic Lake Kagami are also fabulous, and easily arranged through the best places to stay in Nagano Prefecture.