Guide to River Activities in Nagano Prefecture｜Activities in Clear Streams and Recommended Spots

Enjoy river play in Nagano Prefecture!
Activities to get in touch with nature

Nagano Prefecture is known for its rich natural environment, especially its many rivers and streams.

Playing in the river is the perfect activity for a hot summer day, and playing in the cool, clear water refreshes both body and soul.

Nagano Prefecture offers an abundance of different spots and activities for enjoying river activities.

This article introduces recommended river play spots in Nagano Prefecture and activities to make river play more enjoyable.

If you are looking for a place to enjoy with your family or friends, this is the place for you.

 

Popular River Play Spots in Nagano Prefecture

Nagano Prefecture has many great spots for river play.

A variety of enjoyable activities are possible, such as playing in the clear water or camping along the riverbank.

 

1. river fun around Suwako (Lake Suwa)

Lake Suwa is one of the representative lakes of Nagano Prefecture, and the clear water that flows into the lake is ideal for river trips in the surrounding area.

Especially in summer, visitors can enjoy playing in the water by the lake and in the surrounding rivers.

There are many riverside campgrounds and barbecue areas around Suwa Lake for families and groups to enjoy.

 

Recommended Activities

Water play and barbecue by the lake
Canoeing and kayaking on nearby rivers
Mountain stream fishing and boating

 

2. the Shinano River

The Shinano River is Japan's longest river, flowing through Nagano Prefecture, and is an ideal place for river sports and outdoor activities.

The mountain streams, especially in the upper reaches, have beautiful clear water and are great spots for swimming and jumping in.

There are many campgrounds around the Shinano River, and camping while listening to the murmuring of the river is a luxurious experience.

 

Recommended Activities

Water play in a clear mountain stream
Canoeing and kayaking experience
Mountain stream fishing (landlocked salmon and sea trout fishing)

 

3. Hakuba River

Hakuba River runs through Hakuba Village and is especially crowded with families during the summer season.

In addition to river activities, rafting and kayaking can also be enjoyed at this spot.

The river water is cool and provides the perfect coolness on a hot summer day.

 

Recommended Activities

River and water play
Rafting and kayaking
fishing

 

Togakushi Valley

Togakushi Valley is a beautiful valley in Nagano City, an area rich in nature where visitors can enjoy seasonal scenery.

Especially in summer, visitors can enjoy playing in the river and strolling through the canyon.

The clear water flow and abundant nature make it an attractive place to visit.

 

Recommended Activities

Playing in the water in a mountain stream
Trekking and hiking
Fishing (mountain stream fishing)

 

Nagano River Activities

River trips in Nagano Prefecture offer more than just water sports; they also offer a variety of activities.

Facilities and guides are provided for all levels of activity, from beginners to experts.

 

1. rafting

Rafting is an exhilarating activity that takes you down rapids and is a popular outdoor experience in Nagano Prefecture.

In particular, rafting can be enjoyed on the Shinano River, Hakuba River, and Togakushi River.

Because you ride with a guide, you can enjoy the ride safely and even beginners can try it.

 

Recommended Spots

Hakuba River (rafting tour)
Shinano River (rapids course)
Togakushi River (river rafting tour)

 

2. canoe/kayak

Canoeing and kayaking are also popular activities in the clear waters of Nagano Prefecture.

You can paddle gracefully through nature on a quiet flowing river or a beautifully scenic lake.

There are also a variety of experience plans for beginners, and families and friends can enjoy the experience together.

 

Recommended Spots

Lake Suwa (canoeing)
Hakuba River (kayak tour)
Shinano River (canoe tour)

 

3. mountain stream fishing

Mountain stream fishing is a quiet activity that can be enjoyed in the clear waters of Nagano Prefecture.

The species of fish that can be caught vary from region to region, such as landlocked salmon, char, and ayu (sweetfish), allowing visitors to relax in nature.

There are many hands-on programs for beginner fishermen, and there are places where you can rent fishing equipment and receive instruction.

 

Recommended Spots

Togakushi Valley (mountain stream fishing)
Upper Shinano River (landlocked salmon fishing)
Hakuba River (iwana fishing)

 

Nagano Prefecture is not only rivers!
Recommended Activity Tours

Nagano Prefecture is famous for its clear rivers, but there is more to it than that!

Surrounded by mountains, this area is rich in nature,In addition to the river, there are many other activities that will make your heart soar.

An outdoor experience that can be fully enjoyed by families, couples, and friends while enjoying the scenery of the four seasons is waiting for you♪

Here are some recommended activity tours unique to Nagano Prefecture that you can enjoy after your river trip.

Click here to see the ranking of popular plans in Nagano

 

Spectacular Cycling

The electric bicycles are electric-assist e-bikes, so even if you are not confident in your physical strength, you can still enjoy the ride.

It is easy to move forward with little effort,Comfortable and picnic-likeCycling is available for your enjoyment.

You can run in nature at a leisurely pace while feeling a pleasant breeze.

 

go-cart

For those who want to experience a sense of speed,Go-karting experience surrounded by nature is recommended ◎

There are also municipal courses in Nagano Prefecture that are safe and enjoyable for beginners and perfect for family leisure activities.

The exhilaration of running through the wind is different from the scenery of mountains and rivers.

 

athletic

For those who want to move their bodies in nature to the fullest, the athletic experience is perfect!

Located at a high altitude, it is cool and refreshing even in summer!

Enjoy a dynamic experience where you can become one with nature.

 

Points to keep in mind when enjoying the river fun.

It is important to take safety into consideration when enjoying the river. Please observe the following precautions to enjoy an enjoyable river trip.

 

Note the flow of water.

River currents can be strong. Do not play in areas with fast currents or in deep areas.

Prepare the appropriate equipment: If you are canoeing or rafting, be sure to wear a life jacket.

It is recommended to prepare shoes for playing in the water and clothing that can get wet.

 

Watch the weather

Depending on the weather, the river may be flooded. Be careful of sudden downpours and changes in weather conditions.

Environmental Considerations

Take care of the river and surrounding nature. Remember to take your trash home with you and act in a manner that protects nature.

 

summary

Nagano Prefecture has many great places for river activities, and there are plenty of activities at clear streams, mountain rivers, and lakes.

Especially in summer, visitors can enjoy the river with their families and friends, and enjoy nature with a variety of activities such as rafting, canoeing, and fishing.

A river trip is not only refreshing, but also a great opportunity to rediscover the beauty of nature.

Visit the river play spots in Nagano Prefecture for a great outdoor experience.