Discover the Real Nagano & Japan
Explore hidden gems, seasonal highlights, and exclusive local stories in the official digital issue of KURA NAGANO by KURA JAPAN.
KURA NAGANO Issue No.1（Full Screen）
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Contents
Special Feature 01: Locally Selected Specialities from Each Region
Nagano Prefecture is home to 77 unique municipalities, each brimming with hidden gems known only to the locals.
These treasures are the pride of their communities, ranging from exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking vistas to soothing hot springs.
We invite you to embark on a journey to discover the many wonders of Nagano that you have yet to encounter.
01 Nagano City
Nagano City is a spiritual destination where Japan's heart meets stunning nature. Explore the inclusive Zenkoji Temple and the mystical "hidden gem" of Togakushi, famous for its giant cedar avenue, Ninja heritage, and world-class Soba. In winter, a warm 1.8 km illumination path radiates a legacy of world peace from the city's Olympic roots.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyHakuba
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityHakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakuba
Recommended
Half-Day Zenkoji Tour with Tea Ceremony
- Spots:
- Nagano
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Recommended
Tea Ceremony and Zenkoji Experience Tour with 'Shukubo' Temple Lodging Stay
- Spots:
- Nagano
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Recommended
1-Day Togakushi Tour: Hands-on Soba, Ninja Secrets & Ancient Shrines
- Spots:
- NaganoTogakushi
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Small Group
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkey Park & Togakushi Shrine in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyTogakushi
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
02 Matsumoto City
Situated in central Nagano, Matsumoto is a city where history, culture, and art harmonize perfectly with the natural beauty of the Northern Alps. Centered around the National Treasure Matsumoto Castle, the city is renowned for premier sightseeing spots such as Kamikochi, Norikura Highlands, and the historic hot springs of Utsukushigahara and Asama Onsen.
Recommended / New Tour
1-Day Tour from Hakuba: Matsumoto Castle, Soba Making, Art & Sake
03 Azumino City
Azumino, located in central Nagano, is a scenic "land of water" blessed with Northern Alps views, crystal-clear springs, and peaceful rural landscapes. Ideally situated between Kamikochi, Matsumoto, the Alpine Route, and Hakuba, it offers easy access to every destination—making it the perfect year-round hub for regional touring or an extended stay.
Seasonal Special
1-Day Tour from Hakuba: Your Perfect Rest Day featuring Azumino Tensan Wild Silk, Wasabi, Sake & Wine
04 Omachi City
Located in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, Omachi is a charming mountain city surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Northern Alps. Known as the starting point of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and just 30 minutes away from Hakuba's ski resorts, Omachi is a year-round destination offering scenic landscapes, outdoor adventures, and a rich local culture.
05 Shinano Town
Located at the eastern foot of Mt. Kurohime among the Hokushin Gogaku (Five Peaks of Northern Nagano), Shinano Town is a historic nature resort loved by missionaries and literary figures since the Taisho era. It is officially certified by the Forest Therapy Society of Japan as a "2-Star Forest Therapy Base."
06 Iiyama City
Visitors can enjoy hiking along the Shin-etsu Trail to fully experience the rich nature of Iiyama, or easily enjoy the outdoors by renting bicycles and trekking gear at the Iiyama Station Activity Center. Furthermore, the accommodations in the Iiyama City offer heartwarming hospitality along with home-cooked meals featuring local ingredients.
07 Chikuma City
Chikuma is a tranquil city graced by history and traditional beauty, home to the famous Togura-Kamiyamada Onsen and the scenic Obasute terraced rice fields. It is a place where you can immerse yourself in authentic Japanese countryside charm and savor the flavors of seasonal fruits.
08 Ina City
Ina City is a scenic destination nestled between the majestic Southern and Central Alps. Located just three hours from Tokyo or Nagoya by car or highway bus, it offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Immerse yourself in stunning alpine views and bountiful nature — the perfect setting for a deeply refreshing getaway.
09 Yamanouchi Town
Yamanouchi Town is home to the Shiga Kogen Mountain Resort and the world-famous Snow Monkey Park. Set within a rich natural environment recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the area offers visitors a unique mountain resort experience—featuring not only skiing and snowboarding, but also hot springs and various seasonal activities.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun in Shiga Kogen
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyShiga Kogen
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityYudanaka/Shibu
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityYudanaka/Shibu
Recommended
1-Day Ski Tour Package from Nagano Station
- Spots:
- NaganoShiga Kogen
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Recommended
[START FROM SHIGA KOGEN] Private Snow Monkey Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyShiga Kogen
- Pick-up:
- Shiga Kogen
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakubaNozawa OnsenShiga KogenMadaraoMyoko
Special feature 02: The Best Spots to Visit in Nagano
Enjoy a Rejuvenating Retreat at Hoshino Resorts in Nagano
Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Nagano is a land of breathtaking peaks, ancient traditions, and serene hot springs. Whether you’re seeking a sophisticated escape in the historic streets of Matsumoto, a playful and laid-back escape in the vibrant woods of Karuizawa, or a deep connection with nature’s quiet wonders, Hoshino Resorts offers the perfect gateway.
From indulging in fine local cuisine and artisan wines to discovering the secret lives of forest wildlife, every moment here is crafted to rejuvenate your spirit. Leave the ordinary behind and step into a world where time slows down and every season tells a new story.
Your ultimate Nagano retreat starts here.
Recommended Sightseeing Spots
Nagano is packed with heart-racing, body-energizing experiences all year round—from cycling and trekking through majestic nature to gliding on world-class powder snow in winter. Don't just take in the views—dive right in to discover real excitement and wonder. Why not step out into Nagano's vast outdoors and unleash your sense of adventure?
Madarao MOUNTAIN RESORT
Just 2.5 hours from Tokyo Station, Madarao Mountain Resort offers exceptional experiences in all four seasons near Shiga Kogen and Nozawa Onsen. In winter, 51 courses cater to all skill levels. Renowned for its deep powder, the resort features 14 official tree run courses—one of Japan's largest networks—delivering an unforgettable sense of freedom. At an altitude of 1,000 meters, the green season brings cool breezes and panoramic views—best enjoyed from the thrilling Zip-Line Adventure, a two-hour course across six guided lines. The official ski-in/ski-out hotel serves as the ultimate base, featuring natural outdoor hot springs where you can relax after a day exploring Madarao.
Tangram Madarao Tokyu Resort
Nestled along the border of Nagano and Niigata Prefectures, "Tangram Madarao Tokyu Resort" is a snow resort where you can fully enjoy premium powder snow and breathtaking views. Offering seamless ski-in, ski-out access right from the hotel, "Tangram Ski Circus" is blessed with deep, high-quality powder delivered by winter storms off the Sea of Japan. Featuring 20 courses including 5 tree-run areas, it caters to a wide range of visitors, from advanced skiers looking for powder to complete beginners. In addition,
the resort is fully equipped with facilities for non-skiers and families, including a kids park with a moving walkway, a children's snowmobile land, and the "Nojiriko Terrace," which offers sweeping views of Lake Nojiri and Mt. Myoko.
