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.
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Matsumoto (Nagano)
A sleek hotel located in the heart of the city. Simply dressed rooms are all white on white with crisp linen and large windows, the best of which have views onto the Japan Alps. A range of restaurants offer everything from Japanese to French cuisines. A chic base to explore the city from.
Matsumoto (Nagano)
A boutique property offering contemporary Japanese style. Smart rooms are minimalist in design with enormous windows, sink-into western beds, low level dining tables and the best have hot spring baths. The restaurant serves up superlative regional dishes. A chic city base.
Matsumoto
A charming hotel in the foothills of the alps close to River Azusa. Rooms offer traditional Japanese décor with woven tatami flooring, futons and soft colourings; some have private outdoor onsens. Leafy gardens, indoor/outdoor hot-spring baths and tranquil surroundings make this the perfect escape.
Matsumoto (Matsumoto-shi )
The tranquil Tobira Onsen Myojinkan is located a few miles outside Matsumoto. Choose between Japanese or Western-style rooms and suites, enjoy a range of traditional kaiseki, modern Japanese and French cuisine at the restaurant, or unwind at the spa. A fabulous retreat with beautiful onsens.
Nagano Prefecture
Far from the bustle of Takayama city, Fujiiso offers inviting, traditionally styled rooms with tatami mat floors and stunning views of the mountains; the best feature balconies and suites have a private onsen. Fresh local cuisine and a communal onsen too. A tranquil alpine retreat.
