Introducing the can't-miss spots for sightseeing in Nagano in December! Thorough explanation of spectacular scenery, snowy landscapes, and winter events!
Table of Contents
- 1 What are the attractions of sightseeing in Nagano in December? Snow, spectacular scenery, and unique winter fun
- 2 Snowy scenery and sights to see in Nagano in December
- 3 Information on winter events in Nagano to enjoy in December
- 4 Winter hot spring resorts you can't miss in Nagano in December
- 5 Will it snow for sightseeing in Nagano in early December?
- 6 Can I enjoy sightseeing in Nagano in December without a car?
- 7 December Installation Spots in Nagano
- 8 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about sightseeing in Nagano in December
- 9 summary
What is the attraction of sightseeing in Nagano in December?
Snow, spectacular scenery, and unique winter fun

December in Nagano is the beginning of the full-blown winter season, and visitors can enjoy seasonal attractions such as snowy scenery, hot springs, and winter events all at the same time.
In Nagano Prefecture, where there is a large difference in elevation, snowy landscapes can be seen in mountainous areas, and sightseeing and city walking can be enjoyed in urban areas, making it easy to choose the destination that best suits the purpose of your trip.
By understanding the information on sights, hot springs, and events that we will introduce,Nagano trip only in Decembercan be planned without difficulty and with a high degree of satisfaction.
◆Planning a trip in December in Nagano, Japan?
◆Those who want to enjoy snowy scenery and spectacular spots in Nagano in December.
◆Those who want to enjoy Nagano sightseeing in December efficiently without a car and by public transportation.
◆To find out about winter events and light-up information in December in Nagano
↓Click here to read the article.
Enjoy the snowy landscape of Nagano Prefecture! Winter Activities and Recommended SpotsContents1 What makes Nagano Prefecture's snowy landscape so attractive? Exploring the Attractiveness of Nagano in Winter2 Reasons Why Nagano Prefecture's Snow is Attractive2.1 1. snowfall amount and snow quality [...].Click here to see the ranking of popular plans in Nagano
Snowy scenery and sights to see in Nagano in December

Many visitors to Nagano in December come for the natural scenery created by the snow.
Especially in higher elevation areas.blanket of snowThe winter season begins in the spring, and the winter scenery, which is very photogenic, can be enjoyed from relatively early in the season.
From here, we have a large number of visits in December and reliable tourist information.Snowy and spectacular spotsâ
↓Click here to read the article.
Nagano Prefecture Travel Guide|Complete guide to recommended sightseeing spots and travel plansContents1 Nagano tourist attractions1.1 1. Matsumoto Castle1.2 2. Kamikochi 1.3 3 3. Zenkoji Temple1.4 4. Hakuba Village2 Nag [...]Click here to see the ranking of popular plans in Nagano
Jigokudani Yaen-koen

Jigokudani Yaen-koen is a winterwild Japanese macaque (Macaca fuscata)is known around the world for its hot springs.
December is the season when the snow begins to accumulate, and there is a good chance that you will be able to enjoy the snowy scenery and the monkeys at the same time.
The boardwalk to the park is maintained in winter, but there is snow and icy conditions,measures against coldとSlip-resistant shoesis required!
Access: 30 minutes by car from Shinshu-Nakano IC
↓More about Jigokudani Monkey Park
Hakuba Village

Hakuba Village is surrounded by the mountains of the Northern Alps, and in December, the village is covered with snow from near the top of the mountains, offering magnificent winter scenery.
Even for tourists who do not intend to ski or snowboard, the snowy scenery from the gondolas and observation spots is well worth seeing.
On days when the weather is fine, the contrast between the blue sky and the silvery white mountains is beautiful,Representing Nagano in winterOne of the most spectacular views in the world.
◆Outline: Hakuba Village is located in the mountains of the Japanese Alps, on the outskirts of Nagano City, which hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics.
↓Learn more about Hakuba Village
Togakushi Shrine

Togakushi Shrine is unique in winter as the cedar-lined approach to the shrine is covered with snow.Stern and mysterious atmosphereA spot where you can feel the
December is around the time of full-blown heavy snowfall, and visitors may be able to worship in a relatively calm environment.
Since the approach to the temple is prone to snow and icy conditions, visitors are advised to wear slip-resistant shoes!
Access: 1 hour by bus from Nagano Station
↓Learn more about Togakushi Shrine
Information on winter events in Nagano to enjoy in December

In Nagano in December, in addition to the snowy landscapeWinter Eventsand La.it upis a popular tourist attraction.
Temples and shrines, resorts, and urban areas may also offer unique winter productions.
The content and availability of events vary from year to year, so it is important to check the latest information before making travel plans.
Nagano in WinterI want to enjoy it more fully!
↓Click here for popular activities in Nagano
Cycling Tour☆Easy to move around with electric bicycles! Double the fun with commentary by a local guide♪ (No.1)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours9,200 yen
Nagano/2 hours】Only available from April to December! High Ropes Course<Tree Athletic>Challenge about 40 different courses☆Guided tours are available! For friends, family, and team building♪ (No.2)開始時間9:30-12:00 / 12:30-15:00 / 15:00-17:30所要時間Approx. 2 hours5,200 yen
Nagano, Takamine Kogen / Winter Only】High percentage of clear skies! Let's go snowshoeing in the mountains and find the footprints of animals and the spectacular view of the mountains! (No.3)開始時間1:00-3:30 p.m.所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours6,000 yenClick here to see the ranking of popular plans in Nagano
Winter Lighting around Zenkoji Temple, Nagano City

Some years, the area around Zenkoji Temple is lit up and illuminated during the winter season.
The attraction is that you can enjoy the fantastic atmosphere of the precincts of the temple, which is different from that of the daytime.
However, it is not always held every year, so before visitingInformation on official websites and tourist associationsIt is important to make sure that the
Access: 15 minutes by bus from JR Nagano Station
↓Learn more about Zenkoji Temple
December Events in Hakuba and Karuizawa Area

In Hakuba and Karuizawa, events are sometimes held to coincide with the start of the ski season and the winter tourist season.
Events unique to the resortwill enhance the winter travel experience.
The schedule and contents are as followsDependent on weather and snow conditionsTherefore, prior confirmation is essential!
Held in Hakuba area!
↓Click here for popular tours in Nagano
Nagano / Matsumoto, Azumino, Omachi, Hakuba / 1 day】Only available from April to early November! Kamikochi Hiking Day Tour ★ Includes a maximum of 3 hours of free time to explore the area! (v-5)開始時間8:00~.所要時間6~8.5 hours
Nagano/Azumino/Omachi/1 day】Only available from April to November! Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort round-trip ticket included tour★Walk in the air by gondola! (v-8)開始時間9:00~.所要時間4~5 hours
Nagano/Azumino/Omachi/Morning】Only available from June to October! Hakuba Goryu Alpine Botanical Garden Sightseeing Day Tour★Gondola ride to the sky botanical garden with spectacular view! (v-12)開始時間9:00~.所要時間5 hrs.Click here to see the ranking of popular plans in Nagano
↓Click here to read the article.
10 Recommended Activities in Karuizawa|Luxurious Time Spent with NatureContents1 What is Karuizawa? An attractive sightseeing spot surrounded by nature2 What are the activities to enjoy in Karuizawa2.1 Karuizawa [...]
Illumination for the Christmas season only

December marks the Christmas season, and illuminations will be held in some areas in Nagano Prefecture.
In the Karuizawa and Nagano City area, lighting up in harmony with the cityscape is popular♪
Because of the cold temperatures at night,measures against coldto be fully prepared and enjoy!
↓Click here to read the article.
An in-depth look at the charms of Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture! Sightseeing Spots and Recommended ActivitiesContents1 What is Karuizawa? A popular summer resort and tourist destination in Nagano Prefecture2 Tourist Spots to Visit in Karuizawa2.1 1. Karuizawa Old Town [...].
Winter hot spring resorts you can't miss in Nagano in December

In Nagano tourism in December when the cold weather is in full swing,Hot springs are essential.One of the fun things to do.
The open-air baths with a view of the snowy landscape and a stroll through the emotional hot spring resort town are the unique attractions of winter♪.
Next, we will introduce hot spring resorts that have a high usage record even in December and are easy to combine with sightseeing.
↓Click here to read the article.
Guide to Onsen (Hot Springs) in Nagano|Recommended Onsen Inns and Sightseeing Spots to Heal Body and MindContents1 Why you can heal your mind and body in Nagano's hot spring resorts2 Characteristics of Nagano's hot spring resorts2.1 Rich natural environment and hot springs2.2 The hot spring [...]Click here to see the ranking of popular plans in Nagano
Shibu Onsenkyo

Shibu Onsenkyo offers snowy scenery and hot springs at the same timeone of the best in Nagano PrefectureThis is a hot spring resort in
In December, snow begins to accumulate and the number of days when you can experience the open-air snow viewing experience increases.
â- Since there are many cobblestones in the hot spring resort area, it is recommended to walk around with non-slip shoes.â
◆Summary: The generic name of nine hot springs scattered in the Yokoyugawa and Yomasegawa basins in Yamanouchi-machi, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano Prefecture.
↓Click here to read the article.
Travel around Nagano with a sightseeing map! Recommended areas for spectacular spots & hot springs and gourmet food from the map!Contents1 Geography and features of Nagano Prefecture on a map2 Four areas in Nagano Prefecture on a sightseeing map3 HOKUSHIN Area History [...
Hotaka Onsenkyo

Hotaka Onsenkyo is located in the Azumino area and is a hot spring resort where visitors can enjoy the view of the Northern Alps.
December is a relatively calm month for tourists,People who want to enjoy hot springs quietlyIt is suitable for
Surrounded by nature, you can enjoy a serene stay unique to winter.
◆Outline: Hot spring/national recreation hot spring resort in Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture
↓Learn more about Hotaka Hot Spring Resort
Omachi Onsenkyo

Omachi Onsenkyo is known as a base for sightseeing in the Northern Alps and is an easy place to stay in winter.
December is outside the tourist season for the Alpine Route,Quiet environmentYou can enjoy hot springs in
The location is easily accessible by train and bus.
◆Outline: Planned hot spring resort with hot water drawn from the Kuzu hot spring located in the valley of the Takase River.
↓Learn more about Omachi Onsenkyo
Nozawa Hot Spring

Nozawa Onsen isA hot spring resort town where the out-spa culture takes rootYou can take a walk in the winter with a taste of winter in the
December coincides with the beginning of the ski season, and the lively atmosphere is also attractive♪
Observe local rules when using outside bathhouses.
◆Outline: A village located in the northeastern part of Nagano Prefecture / known for Nozawa Onsen Hot Spring
Will it snow for sightseeing in Nagano in early December?

For sightseeing in Nagano in December, it is important to know if there is snow and what the temperature will be!
Nagano Prefecture has large climatic differences from area to area, and snow conditions vary greatly even during the same season.
By checking prior information,Easy travel plans with no pressurecan be stood up... ♪
Snow conditionsYou can enjoy it in accordance with the
↓Click here for winter activities in Nagano.
Nagano/Matsumoto City/2.5 hours】Only available from December to April! Winter Forest Bathing Walking♪Healing experience walking along fallen-leaf paths scented with red pine (with making sweets and scented souvenirs) (No.18)開始時間9:30-12:00/13:30-16:00所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours6,600 yen
Nagano, Takamine Kogen / Winter Only】High percentage of clear skies! Let's go snowshoeing in the mountains and find the footprints of animals and the spectacular view of the mountains! (No.3)開始時間1:00-3:30 p.m.所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours6,000 yenClick here to see the ranking of popular plans in Nagano
Nagano temperature trends for early, mid and late December

In early December, the lowest temperatures around Nagano City begin to fall below freezing on an increasing number of days.
Cold temperatures will become even harsher from mid to late September, and in mountainous areasFull-blown winter weatherwill be.
â- Let's get your cold-weather gear in place as soon as possible.â
| time | Temperatures around Nagano City | Temperatures and snow in the mountains | point |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Dec. | Lowest temperatures around 0 to -2°C | Little snowfall, some days below freezing | Warm clothes are essential, be careful of cold morning and evening temperatures. |
| Mid-December | Minimum temperature -1 to -4°C | Snow begins to increase in mountain areas. | Prepare mountain roads and tourist attractions for snow |
| Late Dec. | Minimum temperature -2 to -6 degrees Celsius | Full-scale snowfall and winter weather | Take all possible measures to prevent cold and slipping |
Areas where it snows easily and areas where it does not

In higher elevation areas such as Hakuba and Shiga Kogen, snow tends to fall from December.
On the other hand, in the Matsumoto urban area and Ueda area, there are years when there is little snow in early December.
Areas to visitUnderstanding CharacteristicsIt is important to do so!
| area | Ease of snowfall in December | point |
|---|---|---|
| Hakuba, Shiga Kogen and other mountainous areas | Snowfall is likely from early December. | Good area for skiing and playing in the snow, warm-up is essential. |
| downtown Matsumoto | Some years there is little snow in early December. | City sightseeing is relatively unaffected by snow, but morning and evening temperatures are cold. |
| Around Ueda and Nagano City | Little snowfall in early December, snowfall along the mountains. | Understand the characteristics of the area you are visiting and plan your trip |
Nagano.Snowshoeing in the Snowy MountainsLet's do it!
↓Snowshoeing and snow trekking tours are available here.
Snowshoe and Snow Trekking Tours Snowshoeing is a great way to experience snowshoeing in Nagano, a place rich in nature. (All 1) アクティビティの詳細を見る
What to wear and bring for a trip to Nagano in December

A trip to Nagano in December requires a warm coat, down, gloves, and scarf.
Slip-resistant shoes and simple crampons are recommended for protection against snow.
In layered clothingTemperature-controlled clothingis recommended♪
Warm socks or thermal leggings
Warm coats and down jackets
Innerwear and sweaters that can be layered to adjust temperature
◆Small accessories
Spare warmer or gloves
Gloves, scarves, knit caps
◆Snow control measures
Slip-resistant shoes or boots
Simple crampons and anti-slip chains if necessary
Can I enjoy sightseeing in Nagano in December without a car?

Many winter visitors to Nagano prefer to travel without a car to avoid driving on snow-covered roads.
In fact, sightseeing is possible even in winter if public transportation is available.
Means of transportationとimportant pointKeep track of the
December attractions easy to reach by train and bus

Nagano City, Matsumoto City, and Karuizawa are easily accessible by train or local bus.
Zenkoji Temple and many of the major tourist attractions in Karuizawa can be visited on foot, making it suitable for sightseeing without a car.
Reduced number of flights in winterBe careful to
No public transportationBut you can enjoy it!
Click here for Nagano sightseeing tours in December ↓↓.
Nagano / Azumino / 1 day】Only available from late April to November! Kurobe Dam One-Day Sightseeing Tour *Okay, you can also see the sightseeing water discharge! (v-6)開始時間8:00~.所要時間6 hrs.
Half-day tour from Omachi, Nagano! Keita Asari Memorial Museum & Reishoji Temple Sightseeing Day Tour★3-hour plan to visit the world of Shiki Theater Company and famous autumn foliage spots! (v-11)開始時間9:30/13:00所要時間3 hours
Nagano/Azumino/Omachi/Morning】Only available from June to October! Hakuba Goryu Alpine Botanical Garden Sightseeing Day Tour★Gondola ride to the sky botanical garden with spectacular view! (v-12)開始時間9:00~.所要時間5 hrs.Click here to see the ranking of popular plans in Nagano
Model area for those who are anxious about driving on snowy roads

Karuizawa and central Nagano have a snow removal system in place,Relatively safe in winterThe "M" is the number of the "M" in the "M".
Selecting accommodations near train stations can reduce the burden of travel.
A reasonable itinerary is recommended.
Traffic regulations to be aware of during winter sightseeing

Mountain roads may be closed and public transportation may be suspended during the winter season.
Before sightseeing, be sure toCheck official informationLet's do it!
A generous schedule will ensure a safe trip.
December Installation Spots in Nagano

Nagano in December is rich in photo-worthy spots that combine snow, cityscapes, and nature♪
Clear winter airare also excellent shooting conditions.
It is also suitable for social networking-conscious travelers.
Karuizawa area with beautiful snowy scenery and townscape

Karuizawa is a Western-styleCityscape and snowy landscapeThe combination of the two is appealing♪
December is a good month for photography, as some years the area is illuminated.
December can be enjoyed in conjunction with a tour of Karuizawa cafes.
↓Click here to read the article.
Enjoy lunch in Karuizawa! 15 recommended restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy excellent local food.Contents1 Why is Karuizawa so popular? 2 Karuizawa Lunch Attractions3 Karuizawa Lunch Spots & Activities3.1 Atri [...]
Hakuba and Achi villages with winter starry skies and nature

Hakuba and Achi Village in winter when the air is clear.stargazingThe area is easy to
The combination of snowy landscape and starry sky is a unique winter attraction♪
Do not forget to take measures to prevent chilling at night.
↓Click here to read the article.
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Nagano City area with snow and historical buildings

In the vicinity of Nagano City, Zenkoji Temple and otherHistorical buildings and snowy landscapeThe combination of the two is impressive.
December is a relatively calm month for photography.
Early morning and evening are the best times to visit!
↓Click here to read the article.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about sightseeing in Nagano in December
On the other hand, in urban areas such as Nagano City and Matsumoto City, snowfall is limited in early December in some years.
Snow availability varies widely by area and time of year, so before travelingCheck the latest weather forecastIt is important to
In addition to a down coat or heavy outerwear, gloves, scarf, and warm shoes are recommended for safe sightseeing.
In snowy areas, choose slip-resistant or waterproof shoes to enjoy sightseeing safely.
If you are concerned about driving on snow-covered roads, we recommend that you choose an area that is easily accessible by public transportation.
Because traffic restrictions may be enforced on some routes and tourist attractions during the winter season,Check access information in advanceLet's do it.
summary

Nagano sightseeing in December includes snowy scenery, hot springs, and winter events.Travel to enjoy seasonal attractionsIt is.
If you understand the climate and accessibility of each area, you can visit without a car without difficulty.
Check for the latest information and make sure you are in the right place.Winter Trip to Naganoâ- Let's plan for the
↓Click here to read the article.
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