6 Top Activities in Nagano Prefecture! Introducing Popular Seasonal Experiences That Both Adults and Kids Will Enjoy

Last edited by;2026/10/23
Submission Date;2026/10/23

Activities in Nagano Prefecture
Adventure and refreshment in touch with nature

Guide to Outdoor Activities in Nagano Prefecture｜Popular activities throughout the four seasons

Activities in Nagano Prefecture take place against the backdrop of the region’s abundant natural beauty, including the mountains of the Northern Alps, clear streams, and highland forests.

From spring through fall, you can enjoy mountain climbing, hiking, river activities, cycling, and adventure courses. In winter, there’s skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. And you can enjoy hot springs all year round.

In this article, we’ll introduce popular activities in Nagano Prefecture, categorized into six genres, along with our recommended spots.

Since there are plenty of options that are enjoyable for both adults-only trips and family vacations with children, please use this as a guide when choosing your destination.

▼Click here for popular activities in Nagano▼

Nagano/Azumino City/30 min.] 16 years old and up★Casual F-1 racing experience! Rental Kart Plan 《First timers are welcome》（No.10)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Approx. 30 min.2,300 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

A Group Camping Trip Full of Smiles During the Nagano Outdoor Experience

Nagano/Lake Suwa/5 hours】Only available from March to December! Camping touring of your dreams☆with Suwaichi certificate《7 years old to join/Beginners welcome/Lunch included》（No.14)開始時間10:00~15:00所要時間5 hrs.7,500 yen

6 Recommended Activities in Nagano Prefecture

Guide to Outdoor Activities in Nagano Prefecture｜Popular activities throughout the four seasons

The activities available in Nagano Prefecture vary depending on the season and area.

Here, we’ll introduce the following six activities in order: “Mountain Climbing and Hiking,” “Skiing and Snowboarding,” “River Activities and Rafting,” “Hot Springs,” “Cycling,” and “Adventure Courses.”

Click here for tours where you can enjoy Nagano's great nature.

Healing Forest Bathing Among the Giant Trees

Nagano Prefecture/Chartered/4 hours]Eliminate brain fatigue with the fragrance of the forest! Available from 1 person (No.17)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Approx. 4 hours16,000 yen

Nagano/Chartered tour/4 hours] Healing aroma forest bathing in Kamikochi with a walk and aroma hand care experience (from 1 person) (No.16)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Approx. 4 hours16,000 yen

Walking Through a Red Pine Forest Among the Fallen Leaves

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

▼ For more information about forest bathing tours, please click here▼.

Forest Bathing Tour Heal your mind and body♪ Nagano Forest Bathing Experience Relax & Refresh in the pure air in the deep forest in Nagano Forest Bathing Tour [...]. (5 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

1. mountain climbing and hiking

Nagano Prefecture is a famous mountaineering destination, with the Japanese Alps towering high above the region.

With the Northern, Central, and Southern Alps all within reach, you can choose from a variety of options to suit your skill level—from beginner-friendly hiking trails to challenging climbs for experienced mountaineers.

Recommended Spots

Mt. Hotaka (a typical mountain in the Northern Alps)
Kamikochi (plenty of trekking courses for beginners)
Mt. Hakuba (with seasonal scenery)

↓ Click here for a forest bathing walk plan you can enjoy in Kamikochi.

Nagano/Chartered tour/4 hours] Healing aroma forest bathing in Kamikochi with a walk and aroma hand care experience (from 1 person) (No.16)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Approx. 4 hours16,000 yen

↓Click here for other forest bathing walk plans.

Nagano Prefecture/Chartered/4 hours]Eliminate brain fatigue with the fragrance of the forest! Available from 1 person (No.17)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Approx. 4 hours16,000 yen

▼Click here for more details on hiking and trekking in Nagano▼

A wooden suspension bridge spanning the clear waters of the Azusa River in Kamikochi and the mountains cloaked in fresh greenery

The Complete Guide to the Charms of Hiking and Trekking in Nagano Prefecture | Recommended Tours and Trails for Everyone from Beginners to Advanced HikersMountain Climbing and Trekking in Nagano Why is it so popular? Nagano Prefecture is truly a sacred place for mountaineering and trekking enthusiasts [...].

2. skiing/snowboarding

Winter in Nagano Prefecture is the ski and snowboard season.

There are numerous ski resorts scattered throughout the prefecture, attracting skiers from all over Japan and even from overseas.

Many of the ski resorts here are known for their powder snow, and skiers of all levels—from beginners to advanced—can choose a course that suits their skill level.

Recommended Spots

Hakuba Village (also popular with international skiers)
Shiga Kogen (vast ski area)
Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort (hot springs and skiing)

↓Snowshoeing & Snowshoeing & Snowshoeing
Click here for snow trekking tours

Snowshoeing, Winter *Permit required for Fika Forest

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 yen

▼Click here for more details about snowshoe and snow trekking tours▼

What kind of town is Shinanomachi, Nagano? Thorough explanation of recommended sightseeing spots, gourmet food, and things to do

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

▼Click here for more information about ski resorts in Nagano▼

Complete Guide to Nagano Ski Resorts｜Thorough explanation of recommended areas, features, and access informationEnjoy skiing in Nagano! Nagano Prefecture is a famous skiing and snowboarding mecca in Japan. The quality of snow and abundant skiing ba [...].

3. river play and rafting

In Nagano Prefecture during the summer, you can enjoy playing in the clear streams and going rafting.

The most popular rafting spots are the Sai River, which flows through Azumino, and the Tenryu River, which flows through the Ina Valley and southern Shinshu. The thrill of navigating the rapids is sure to get families and groups excited.

At Lake Aoki and Lake Kizaki in Omachi City, canoeing across the calm waters is also a popular activity.

Recommended Spots

Saigawa River (Rafting in the Azumino Area)
Tenryu River (Rafting in the Ina Valley and Southern Shinshu)
Lake Aoki and Lake Kizaki (Canoeing in Omachi City)

▼Click here for kayaking and canoeing tours in Nagano▼

Nagano Kayak and Canoe Tour Canoeing tour on a lake in Nagano, Japan Canoeing tour on a lake surrounded by the magnificent nature of Nagano, Japan is a great way to experience [...]. (2 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

▼Click here for more details on river recreation spots in Nagano▼

Atera Gorge: A Crystal-Clear Stream in Nagano Where You Can Enjoy River Activities

Guide to River Activities in Nagano Prefecture! Full of information on activities and recommended spots in clear streams!Enjoy the river in Nagano's wilderness! A comprehensive list of popular places to enjoy summer Nagano, surrounded by rich forests and mountains, is the perfect location for a river [...].

▼Click here for more details on canoeing activities at Lake Aoki▼

An extraordinary experience at Lake Aoki! Activities & Sightseeing Information to Enjoy Nagano's Great NatureLake Aoki, located in Nagano Prefecture, is a crystal clear lake surrounded by the beautiful mountains of the Northern Alps, and is a spot where visitors can enjoy the charm of the four seasons. The lake's water is crystal clear, and on a clear day, the blue sky and mountains are reflected in the lake's surface, creating a spectacular view. Lake Aoki's charm lies in its quiet environment where visitors can relax and enjoy the clean air and natural beauty of the lake.

4. tour of hot springs

Nagano Prefecture is home to many hot spring resorts, and it’s a great place to stop by after getting some exercise through various activities.

At hot spring resorts nestled in the mountains, you can relax and unwind while enjoying views of the mountains and lakes from the open-air baths.

Recommended Hot Spring Destinations

Hakuba Happo Onsen (Hakuba Village; a convenient stop after skiing or hiking)
Nozawa Onsen (Nozawa Onsen Village; a great place to enjoy a tour of the public bathhouses)
Kamisuwa Onsen (Suwa City; a hot spring resort on the shores of Lake Suwa)

▼Click here for more details on day-trip hot springs in Nagano▼

Monkey, Monkeys, Hot Springs, Jigokudani Wild Monkey Park

The latest edition of "One-day Onsen Ranking in Nagano｜Selected hot springs with spectacular views, free-flowing hot-spring water, and close to train stations.Why Nagano's Day Trips to Hot Springs Are So Popular and What You Will Learn in This Article Nagano Prefecture boasts one of the largest numbers of hot spring resorts in Japan, and the choices for day trips to hot springs are very [...].

▼Click here for more information about hot spring resorts and inns in Nagano▼

Guide to Onsen (Hot Springs) in Nagano｜Recommended Onsen Inns and Sightseeing Spots to Heal Body and MindWhy Nagano's Hot Spring Destinations Heal Both Body and Mind Nagano Prefecture is known as a tourist destination where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the four seasons, but it is also known as a hot spring resort and [...]...

▼Click here for more information about skiing and hot springs in Hakuba▼

View from the ski lift at Hakuba Iwatake Resort in Nagano Prefecture

Attractions of Hakuba, Nagano｜Guide to skiing, hot springs, and tourist attractionsWhat is the charm of Hakuba, Nagano Prefecture? Activities that can be enjoyed throughout the four seasons Hakuba Village, Nagano Prefecture, is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in winter [...].

5. cycling and cycling tours

Nagano Prefecture has many cycling routes that wind through mountains, lakes, and rural landscapes.

Areas like Karuizawa, Tateshina, and the Lake Suwa region—where you can enjoy the scenery while cycling—are very popular. With an electric-assist bicycle (e-bike) tour, you can ride comfortably even in the hilly highlands.

Recommended Spots

Karuizawa (where you can take a leisurely drive through vacation home communities and forests)
Ueda City (where you can explore the streets of a historic castle town)
Around Suwa Lake (Cycling course around the lake)

▼Click here for tours in Nagano where you can enjoy cycling.

A Cycling Experience in Nagano with Views of Mount Yatsugatake

Nagano / Lake Suwa Yatsugatake / 1 day】Only from April to November! Ride an "e-bike" through the Venus Line in the sky! Participation from 9 years old/ Lunch included] (No.13)開始時間10:00~17:00所要時間1 day13,000 yen

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

Cycling, e-bikes* (Permission required to use Fika Forest)

Nagano, Asama/Half day】Spectacular cycling in Asama Plateau☆Casual picnic ride on an electric power-assisted bicycle "e-bike"! (No.4)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours6,000 yen

▼ Learn more about our cycling tours

Nagano Cycling Tour Nagano is a must experience! Cycling Tours Nagano, with its beautiful nature and rich landscapes, is a must for cycling enthusiasts [...]. (4 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

▼ Learn more about electrically power assisted bicycles

Electric bicycles (e-bikes) tour Enjoy Nagano's Nature★ Popular Outdoor Activities Nagano Prefecture has cycling routes where you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons [...]. (4 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

▼Click here for more details on cycling routes in Nagano▼

A spectacular cycling trip in Nagano, Japan! Recommended Courses and Sightseeing SpotsLet's enjoy cycling in Nagano! A trip healed by spectacular scenery and nature Nagano Prefecture boasts beautiful nature and abundant tourist resources Cycling [...].

6. athletic and adventure play

In Nagano Prefecture, there are also facilities where you can enjoy authentic adventure courses in the woods.

From tree-top adventure courses featuring ropes strung between trees to zip lines, there are plenty of activities that even adults will find thrilling. It’s the perfect place to take on new challenges with family and friends.

Recommended Spots

Laboland Kurohime (Shinano-machi, Kurohime Highlands; features a high-rope course with approximately 40 different challenges)
Forest Adventure Nagano (Nagano City, Iizuna Highlands; a zip slide that glides over Oza-Hoshi Pond)

▼ Nagano Athletic Experience (Field Athletics) ▼
Click here for popular plans

▼For more information about the Athletic Experience, click here▼.

Nagano Athletic Experience (Field Athletic) Parents and children can have fun together! Field Athletic in Nagano Field Athletic, where you can satisfy your adventurous spirit while moving your body in the nature [...]. (All 1) アクティビティの詳細を見る

▼Click here for more information about athletic spots in Nagano▼

A participant crossing a net structure at a tree-top adventure course in the forest

Athletic Activities in Nagano Prefecture｜Guide to Outdoor Activities and AdventuresEnjoy Adventure Courses in Nagano Prefecture! Experience Adventure in Nature Nagano Prefecture is blessed with beautiful natural scenery throughout the four seasons. Among the many outdoor […]

Activities in Nagano Prefecture
Points for Enjoyment

Guide to Outdoor Activities in Nagano Prefecture｜Popular activities throughout the four seasons

Here are three key points to keep in mind when enjoying outdoor activities in Nagano Prefecture.

Click here for bus tours that take in the sights of the city.

Nagano / Matsumoto, Azumino, Omachi / 1 day】Only available from June to October! Kamikochi Day Trip Bus Tour★Including French lunch at Kamikochi Imperial Hotel! (v-10)開始時間8:00~.所要時間6.5 to 9.5 hours

Toyama / Ogisawa / Afternoon】Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Toyama Motto Route Bus Plan★The end of the trip is easy with a direct bus! One way〉(v-9)開始時間：16:00~所要時間2.5 to 4 hours

Nagano/Ougisawa/1 day] Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Pass-through Bus Plan★Select from 6 types of rides to fully enjoy the spectacular scenery! (v-7)開始時間7:45~.所要時間10.5 to 11.5 hours

▼For more information about Nagano sightseeing bus tours, please click here▼.

Nagano Sightseeing Bus Tour Enjoy Nagano to the fullest! Sightseeing Bus Tour Nagano Prefecture is a charming place with beautiful nature and historic townscapes! No need to arrange troublesome transportation, and you can enjoy the beautiful [...]... (9 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

Prepare clothing according to the season.

Many areas in Nagano Prefecture are at high elevations, so even in summer, it can feel a bit chilly in the mornings and evenings, as well as in the mountains. It’s a good idea to bring a light jacket to wear over your clothes.

Since some areas get a lot of snow in the winter, be sure to take proper precautions against the cold.

Advance Planning and Reservations

Popular activities tend to get crowded during busy periods, such as long weekends and summer vacation. It's best to make your reservations early.

We especially recommend checking availability early for accommodations near ski resorts and hot spring areas, as well as rafting tours.

Enjoy safety first

Some activities in rivers and mountains can be dangerous.

When trying something for the first time, choose a tour led by a guide or instructor, check the weather forecast for that day, and make safety your top priority while having fun.

summary

Guide to Outdoor Activities in Nagano Prefecture｜Popular activities throughout the four seasons

Nagano Prefecture is a place where you can enjoy a variety of activities against the backdrop of nature throughout the seasons.

In the summer, enjoy hiking, rafting, cycling, and adventure courses. In the winter, try skiing or snowshoeing. Afterward, relax at a hot spring. No matter what season you visit, there’s something fun to do.

Whether you're with family, friends, or your partner, enjoy the natural beauty of Nagano Prefecture to the fullest.

▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this article.

Experience the sea of clouds at SORA terrace in Nagano! Explanation of the season and café informationWhat is Nagano SORA terrace? Introducing a popular and spectacular spot with a sea of clouds Ryuoh Mountain Resort, Nagano [...].

5 Best Campgrounds in Nagano Prefecture for Day-Trip Barbecues (BBQ)! A Special Feature on Recommended Campgrounds You Can Enjoy Even on a Day TripWhy Barbecue (BBQ) in Nagano is so popular? Nagano Prefecture is a mecca for outdoor activities, surrounded by beautiful mountains and lakes, with such a rich natural [...].

The author of this article :. H.Kimura

Born and raised in Nagano Prefecture, my hobby is mountain climbing. He also enjoys canoeing and SUP on lakes. He started mountain climbing in his late teens, and is now hooked on the allure of trekking. On his days off, he goes outside with his wife and children to get in touch with nature.