October is one of the best months to visit Nagano. The mountains and temple gardens begin to glow with autumn colors, the air turns refreshingly crisp, and seasonal festivals highlight local traditions, from chestnut celebrations in Obuse to the harvest of new buckwheat noodles in Togakushi.
This guide brings together everything you need to know about Nagano in October, from autumn foliage and cultural highlights at Zenkoji, Togakushi, and Matsushiro, to practical travel advice and recommendations for making the most of your visit. Joining a guided tour is one of the easiest ways to explore the region without the stress of transport or planning, leaving you free to enjoy the food, the scenery, and the history that make Nagano so special in the peak of autumn of October.
Weather in Nagano in October
October weather in Nagano is comfortably cool with clear skies, making it one of the best months to explore the region, as it is not too hot and it is not too cold, but just right! The humidity of the summer fades away and you are left only with the occasional day with rainy weather, but those are few and far between.
- Average daytime temperature: 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F)
- Nighttime temperature: 3°C to 8°C (37°F to 46°F)
- Conditions: Bright days, crisp mornings and evenings, and early snow possible at highest elevations in the Nagano area such as Shiga Kogen, but you shouldn't expect snow in any city areas.
- Clothing: A light jacket or sweater is recommended during the day, with a warmer coat for evenings. Sturdy shoes are useful for walking temple grounds and shrine trails.
- Precipitation: Rain is relatively light compared to summer, but occasional showers are possible.
- Daylight hours: Around 11 hours per day, with earlier sunsets as winter approaches.
The mild climate makes October one of the most enjoyable months for sightseeing in Nagano. Autumn colors typically begin in the mountains in early October, reaching Nagano City, Zenkoji Temple, and Matsushiro from mid- to late October. The pleasant temperatures and dry air also make this a great season for outdoor activities such as walking the famous Togakushi cedar avenue, camping in the forested mountains, or strolling the preserved streets of Matsushiro or the shopping in the districts of Zenkoji Temple.
Festivals & Events in October
Matsushiro Sanada Jumangoku Samurai Festival 2026
For two days on the second weekend of October, the Matsushiro Sanada Jumangoku Festival unfolds in Matsushiro Town on October 10 (Saturday) and 11 (Sunday).
- Saturday Evening Fireworks
On October 10, enjoy the thrill of the Kawanakajima Battlefield Fireworks Festival, launching around 6:00 pm at the nearby Kawanakajima Old Battlefield Park—roughly 3,000 fireworks light the autumn sky in a spectacular salute to history - Sunday’s Grand Samurai Parade
The main event on Sunday, October 12, begins with artillery and taiko drum displays in the morning, followed by an elaborate samurai and noble-themed procession departing from Matsushiro Castle Park around 12:45 pm. The procession winds through the town for about two hours before returning to the castle
How to Get There
From Nagano Station, take the Alpico Bus bound for Matsushiro (bus stop No. 3 at the Zenkoji Exit). The ride takes approximately 30–35 minutes, and the festival grounds at Matsushiro Castle Park are just a 5-minute walk from the Matsushiro Station stop
Obuse Chestnut Festival 2025
While official dates are typically confirmed closer to the season, Obuse Town (小布施町) transforms into a culinary destination every late October to celebrate the height of the chestnut harvest. Known throughout Japan for producing the highest quality chestnuts once reserved for the Shogunate, the town hosts the Obuse Chestnut Festival (Obuse Kuri-matsuri) across the historic town center and Kōtai Shrine.
- A Gourmet Experience: This is the best time to sample Shin-kuri (new chestnuts). Highlights include professional chestnut-and-cream contests, workshops, and "grab-your-own" chestnut sweet stalls.
- Seasonal Delicacies: Visitors can indulge in freshly made chestnut paste, traditional monburan (Mont Blanc) cakes, and steamed chestnut rice (kuri-okowa), available at nearly every shop in the beautifully preserved town.
- Cultural Atmosphere: Beyond the food, the festival features traditional ceremonial events at the shrine, offering a quintessential Japanese autumn festival atmosphere framed by the town's famous white-walled storehouses and chestnut-wood brick paths.
Getting There: Take the Nagano Dentetsu (Nagaden) train from Nagano Station. The "Snow Monkey" Express or local trains take approximately 25–35 minutes to reach Obuse Station. The festival grounds and historic district are a pleasant 10-minute walk from the station.
Togakushi Soba Festival 2026
The Togakushi Soba Festival is a cherished annual event held in late October, celebrating the region's rich soba (buckwheat) heritage of over 1,000 years. In 2026, the dates for the festival have not been officially set yet, but it is estimated to occur on October 30th and 31st.
October 30th – Soba Tool Burning Ceremony
On the evening of October 30th, a traditional soba tool burning ceremony takes place at Chusha Shrine, marking the end of the soba harvest season. This ritual involves the burning of old soba-making tools as a tribute to the deities, ensuring a bountiful harvest for the following year. The ceremony begins at 16:30 and is accompanied by local festivities, including traditional music and offerings.
October 31st – New Soba Dedication Festival
The following day, October 31st, features the New Soba Dedication Festival at Chusha Shrine Plaza. Ending at around 12:30, freshly harvested soba is offered to the enshrined deities of Togakushi Shrine as a gesture of gratitude and reverence. Around 12:30, approximately 15 servings of this sacred soba are available for purchase at each participating soba shops and partner accommodation, offering a way for you to directly participate in partaking of this sacred soba.
Seasonal Highlights in October
Autumn Colors Around Nagano
Nagano offers many colors throughout the year, from the vibrant greens of summer, or the blanket of pure white snow that covers the roofs in winter. However, October is when Nagano and its surrounding areas are at their most ablaze with hues of reds, oranges, and yellows. The forests of Togakushi offer some of the best variety with the Mirror Lake and the various Shrine Roads, whereas the gardens around Zenkoji Temple, and the streets of Matsushiro glow in shades of red, orange, and gold contrasting with the traditional Japanese architecture surrounding it. Visitors can stroll along the Togakushi cedar avenue, wander temple grounds, or explore samurai streets while enjoying sweeping autumn views set against the mountains.
For more information about fall foliage in Nagano, you can visit our Autumn Leaves in Nagano: When and Where to Enjoy the 2025 Season page for a detailed look into the most anticipated aspect of the season.
Harvest Flavors
October is also harvest season in Nagano. Everywhere you look, apples hang in abundance from trees both within Nagano City and in the surrounding orchards, creating a vivid symbol of the season. Apples serve as sort of the namesake of Nagano City, as both our city's mascot character "Arukuma" the apple bear, and the manhole covers around the city are decorated with these amazing fruits. Freshly harvested buckwheat is celebrated at the Togakushi Soba Festival, while chestnuts and seasonal fruits like persimmons appear in local sweets and dishes, offering a lot of variety for any pallate.
Local culinary offerings also evolve with the season. Oyaki, the traditional stuffed dumplings, feature changing seasonal fillings — such as pumpkin, mushrooms, or sweet chestnut paste — at restaurants and street vendors throughout the region. Seasonal treats, including chestnut confections in Obuse and freshly brewed sake, are especially enjoyable in the crisp autumn air, highlighting Nagano’s rich culinary traditions.
Featured Tours in October
We offer many tours to highlight the greatness of October in Nagano by going to the destinations with vibrant fall colors.
1-Day Togakushi Legends Tour: Hands-on Soba Noodles, Ninja Village, and Hidden Shrines
Experience the magic of Togakushi this October, where the vibrant autumn foliage paints the sacred pilgrimage paths lined paths in hues of red and gold, although the cedars themselves maintain their timeless green leaves. Our tour immerses you in the season's beauty, guiding you through tranquil shrines, offering hands-on soba-making experiences, and delving into the rich cultural tapestry of the Togakushi region.
Highlights:
- Walk the sacred cedar avenue of Togakushi amid vibrant autumn colors.
- Visit the Togakushi shrines and explore tranquil forest trails.
- Taste freshly made soba and enjoy seasonal local treats.
Recommended
1-Day Togakushi Legends Tour: Hands-on Soba Noodles, Ninja Village, and Hidden Shrines
- Spots:
- NaganoTogakushi
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Tateyama-Kurobe Tour: Walking on the 'Roof of Japan'
Embark on a breathtaking journey high into the Northern Japanese Alps this October. The Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route offers a mesmerizing tapestry of alpine autumn colors—fiery reds, golds, and browns—blanketing mountain meadows and forests, all framed by stunning blue skies and dramatic peaks.
Highlights:
- Ascend to Murodo (2,450 m) via mountain transports, including trolley buses, ropeways, and cable cars—for panoramic views of autumn alpine landscapes.
- Walk beneath the summit of Mount Tate, traversing colorful alpine meadows and tranquil snow-melt ponds surrounded by reds and golds.
- Marvel at the Kurobe Dam framed by fall foliage, a striking blend of engineering and natural beauty along your ascent and descent.
Recommended
[Summer/Autumn only] Tateyama-Kurobe Tour: Walking on the 'Roof of Japan'
- Spots:
- NaganoAlpine Route
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Half-Day Zenkoji Tour with Tea Experience w/optional Shukubo Temple Stay
Experience the charm of Nagano this October, when Zenkoji Temple is framed by crisp autumn air and colorful fall foliage. This half-day tour immerses you in the spiritual and cultural heart of the city, guiding you through the historic temple grounds, offering a traditional tea ceremony experience, and introducing you to the rich heritage surrounding Zenkoji in Nagano's most walkable month.
Highlights:
- Explore the historic Zenkoji Temple grounds amid autumn colors.
- Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
- Wander the streets and markets near the temple, enjoying seasonal treats and local crafts.
Recommended
Half-Day Zenkoji Tour with Tea Ceremony
- Spots:
- Nagano
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
If you would like to upgrade your experience to stay on the grounds of Zenkoji Temple itself, it would be a one-of-a-kind opportunity to stay in a "shukubo" temple lodging for the night after the tour by booking the following tour option:
Recommended
Tea Ceremony and Zenkoji Experience Tour with 'Shukubo' Temple Lodging Stay
- Spots:
- Nagano
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
Experience Nagano at its autumn best this October, with the forests around Kanbayashi Onsen glowing in vivid fall colors. Visit Zenkoji Temple amid the fresh autumn air, then observe the famous hot spring-bathing snow monkeys framed by fiery autumn foliage. Conclude the day with a seasonal sake tasting that highlights Nagano’s rich culinary traditions.
Highlights:
- Explore Zenkoji Temple surrounded by autumn colors.
- Watch snow monkeys in Kanbayashi Onsen amid vibrant fall foliage.
- Enjoy a seasonal sake tasting featuring local specialties.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyHakuba
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityHakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakuba
We can also offer a private version of this tour that also visits the famous town of Obuse, with the ability to customize some of the experience to best match your expectations. You can see this below:
Popular
[START FROM NAGANO CITY] Private Snow Monkey Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakubaNozawa OnsenShiga KogenMadaraoMyoko
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle
Experience the beauty of Nagano's alpine landscapes and historic sites this October. Begin your day with a visit to Matsumoto Castle, where the vibrant red and gold leaves of the surrounding trees contrast beautifully with the castle's black-and-white exterior. In the afternoon, explore Kamikochi, a highland valley renowned for its stunning autumn colors. Walk along the Azusa River, surrounded by the fiery hues of Japanese larch and maple trees, set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
Highlights:
- Marvel at the Matsumoto Castle, with some autumn hues contrasting against the castle's black-and-white exterior.
- Stroll along the Azusa River in Kamikochi, surrounded by the fiery hues of Japanese larch and maple trees.
- Capture the stunning reflections of autumn leaves on the surface of Taisho Pond, with the backdrop of Mt. Yake.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle
- Spots:
- NaganoMatsumotoKamikochi
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
Tips for Visiting & Travel in October
Getting Around – Nagano City is compact and easy to explore on foot, but many key attractions like Togakushi, Obuse, and Kamikochi are a short drive or train ride away. Public transportation is reliable, and joining a guided tour can simplify transfers between sites while letting you focus on the sights and seasonal experiences.
What to Wear – October days in Nagano are cool and crisp, with average highs around 15–18°C and evenings dropping to 5–8°C. Layered clothing is ideal, and a warm jacket is recommended for mornings, evenings, and higher-altitude areas like Togakushi, Kanbayashi Onsen, or Shiga Kogen. Comfortable walking shoes are best for temple grounds, cedar avenues, and forest trails.
Photography – October offers some of the most photogenic scenery in Nagano. Early mornings can bring mist along the Togakushi cedar avenue or Zenkoji Temple, while late afternoons illuminate the autumn colors around around the surrounding mountains.
Timing Your Visit – Festivals, weekends, and peak foliage days may draw more visitors. For a quieter experience, explore sites on weekday mornings or earlier in October. Arriving early at events like the Togakushi Soba Festival or Obuse Chestnut Festival helps you enjoy the seasonal offerings without the rush.
Where to Stay in October
October is one of the most rewarding months to spend a night in Nagano City or nearby areas. While many travelers visit on day trips, staying overnight lets you enjoy the city’s autumn charm in the early morning or evening, when temples and streets are quieter and the fall foliage glows in the crisp air.
Western Hotels in Nagano – Central Nagano offers a variety of hotels with modern amenities, convenient for visiting Zenkoji Temple, city markets, and restaurants. Staying in the city allows easy access to tours and transport to nearby attractions.
Temple Lodging at Zenkoji Temple – For a unique cultural experience, spend the night in a shukubo, a temple lodging where you can participate in morning prayers, meditation, and traditional vegetarian meals (shojin ryori). Staying at a shukubo in Togakushi or Matsushiro provides a serene, spiritual atmosphere enhanced by the autumn scenery.
New Tour
2-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Samurai Experience & Zenkoji 'Shukubo' Stay
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Kanbayashi Onsen – Another excellent option is the onsen resorts around Kanbayashi near the snow monkeys. Although this is farther away from Nagano City, accommodations here book out fast in October due to the density of the fall foliage and quality of onsen and amenities they provide
Wherever you choose to stay, October is a popular time for visitors, so booking well in advance is recommended. Staying overnight enhances your experience of Nagano’s seasonal beauty and cultural offerings.
Plan Your October Visit
October is one of the most memorable times to experience Nagano City and its surrounding regions. The autumn foliage transforms places like Zenkoji Temple, Togakushi’s cedar avenue, and the orchards of Obuse into breathtaking landscapes. Seasonal festivals such as the Togakushi Soba Festival and Obuse Chestnut Festival celebrate local food traditions, while crisp mountain air and colorful evenings add to the atmosphere, making October one of the best months of the year to visit.
Planning ahead will help you make the most of your trip. Consider staying overnight in Nagano City, experiencing the quiet spirituality of a shukubo temple lodging, or relaxing in nearby onsen towns like Kanbayashi. Guided tours are another great way to simplify travel between highlights, ensuring you can focus on the scenery, the food, and the rich cultural heritage that make Nagano in October unforgettable.
If you’re planning a trip to Nagano this October and would like assistance with accommodations, tours, or general travel planning, our team is here to help. Whether you want to join a guided tour, book a stay at a traditional inn, or simply get advice on the best way to experience the season, feel free to use the inquiry button at the bottom of the page. We’ll help you create a trip that makes the most of Nagano’s autumn beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nagano in October
It depends on the elevation. In early October, the colors peak in high-altitude areas like Shiga Kogen and the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route. By mid-to-late October, the fiery reds and golds reach Togakushi, Kamikochi, and finally the gardens of Zenko-ji Temple in Nagano City.
October is "layer weather." Days are usually crisp and sunny (15°C–18°C), but as soon as the sun sets, temperatures can drop rapidly to below 8°C. If you are heading into the mountains or staying for evening fireworks, a warm jacket or a light down vest is essential.
Yes. While there is no snow on the ground, the monkeys are very active in early October. The walk through the forest to the park is particularly beautiful in October as the Katsura and Maple trees turn brilliant shades of yellow and red.
Please note that late October is the start of their mating season and it is more rare for them to come down to the park in this period.
Absolutely. October is one of the busiest months for domestic travel in Japan. Tours to the Alpine Route and Kamikochi often sell out weeks in advance as visitors flock to see the autumn leaves. We recommend booking at least 3–4 weeks ahead.
"Shin-Soba" refers to "New Buckwheat." The autumn harvest in Togakushi happens in October, meaning the noodles served during the Togakushi Soba Festival are the freshest, most fragrant, and most flavorful of the entire year.
The Matsushiro Samurai Festival (Oct 10-11, 2026) is a highlight, featuring a grand parade of warriors in authentic armor. The Kawanakajima Battlefield Fireworks on the evening of the 10th is also a spectacular and rare autumn fireworks display.
Explore Nagano by Month
Nagano is a year-round destination, with each month offering a completely different landscape and set of experiences to enjoy. Choose your travel window below:
The Snow & Winter Season
- [January] – Deep Winter & Snow Monkeys: The peak of the powder season. Visit for world-class skiing, frozen shrines, and the iconic sight of monkeys bathing in the steam.
- [February] – The Lantern Festival & Ice: Nagano's coldest month offers some of the best snow conditions of the year, paired with a festival celebrating Olympic heritage.
- [March] – The Late Winter Thaw: Enjoy Bluebird ski days with milder temperatures and the very first signs of spring in the valley.
The Alpine Spring Season
- [April] – Sakura & Snow Walls: A month of extremes. See the cherry blossoms bloom in the valley while walking between 20-meter high walls of snow on the Alpine Route.
- [May] – The Fresh Green Awakening: The most vibrant month for photography. Witness the "Mirror" rice paddies and the glowing neon-green forests and snow capped alps of Kamikochi.
- [June] – The Season of Mountain Mist: Escape the heat of the cities. Discover the mystical, fog-shrouded shrines of Togakushi and the blooming mountain hydrangeas.
The High Summer Season
- [July] – Alpine Wildflowers & Starry Nights: The high-altitude hiking season is in full swing. Enjoy cool mountain breezes and carpets of rare alpine flowers.
- [August] – The Great Obon Festivals: Join local communities for traditional dances and massive fireworks displays over the Chikuma River.
- [September] – The First Hints of Gold: The rice harvests begin, turning the valleys into fields of gold, while the highest peaks start to show their first autumn colors.
The Harvest & Autumn Season
- 📍[October] – Peak Autumn Colors: (You are here)
- [November] – Apples & First Snowfall: The harvest season for Nagano’s famous apples. Experience the crisp air and the first dusting of snow on the Alps.
- [December] – The Return of the Powder: The ski resorts reopen and the villages of Shibu Onsen and Hakuba transform into a winter wonderland for the holidays.