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- Sample Itineraries
We at JR East have planned out some great itineraries for visiting Shinshu (Nagano Prefecture). These trips include places to discover Japanese attractions, whether this is your first trip to Shinshu or you are a repeat visitor. For those wanting to enjoy their trip at a more leisurely pace, we have charted out one-night, two-day itineraries, and we also have day trips for those who want a quick vacation from Tokyo. These itineraries feature accommodations that should be experienced by any visitor to Japan! Select a trip that fits your schedule.
One-night, Two-day Trips
The itineraries for these trips include one night and two days. These trips are recommended for travelers who want to enjoy the attractions of Shinshu at a more leisurely pace.
Matsumoto Castle, a National Treasure
This itinerary is designed for people wanting to see the most popular tourist attractions of Shinshu. Enjoy strolling and shopping in the popular highland resort area of Karuizawa as well as visiting historical structures including Zenkoji Temple–a symbol of Nagano–and Matsumoto Castle, a National Treasure.
- Major points of note: Karuizawa, Zenkoji Temple, Matsumoto Castle
- Accommodations: Nagano Area – Hotel Metropolitan Nagano
Bessho Onsen, an area known for old temples and pagodas
Snow monkeys are a popular Shinshu attraction
Start with a walk in the streets of Obuse, famous for chestnuts, while eating the delectable chestnut confections, then visit the hot springs at Yudanaka Shibu Onsen Village. On the second day, it's off to see the ever-popular snow monkeys.
- Major points of note: Obuse, Yudanaka Shibu Onsen Village, snow monkeys, Zenkoji Temple
- Accommodations: Yudanaka Onsen area – Yorozuya Annex Yurakuan
Enjoy footbaths at Nozawa Onsen
Nozawa Onsen is home to 13 community bathhouses. Soak in the hot water with the local villagers, and immerse yourself in the traditional hot spring culture, which developed in the Edo Period and has been maintained to this day.
- Major points of note: Nozawa Onsen, Zenkoji Temple, Matsumoto Castle
- Accommodations: Nozawa Onsen area – Kiriya Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn
The Kappa Bridge in Kamikochi with the Japanese Alps in the background
Surrounded by mountains rising over 3,000 meters in elevation, you will have ample opportunity to feast your eyes on the beautiful scenery of Kamikochi on this tour. Maybe even stop by the comical Manji Stone Buddha to take a photograph to remember your trip.
- Major points of note: Kamikochi, Matsumoto Castle, Manji Stone Buddha (Manji no Sekibutsu)
- Accommodations: Matsumoto area – Matsumoto Tokyu Inn
Water is released from the Kurobe Dam
After a hike in the Hakuba area, known for ski resorts, head straight for Omachi Onsen to wash the fatigue away in the hot spring. On the following day, take an excursion along the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route.
- Major points of note: Hakuba, Omachi Onsen Village, Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, Zenkoji Temple
- Accommodations: Omachi Onsen Village area – Tateyama Prince Hotel
Day Trips
These day trip itineraries were planned especially for travelers who want a quick, but fun trip from Tokyo. They feature popular Shinshu tourist sites in Nagano and Karuizawa.
Zenkoji Temple, symbol of Nagano
Nagano is just 105 minutes from Tokyo by Shinkansen. After visiting Zenkoji Temple, which is the symbol of Nagano, a bowl of local Shinshu soba (buckwheat noodles) is a local treat that should not be missed. Obasute is also a scenic location that is worth the visit!
- Major points of note: Zenkoji Temple, Shinshu soba, Obasute, oyaki fried flour cake
Icon Guide
- Features the spectacular natural beauty of Shinshu
- Features wonderful Shinshu cuisine
- Features Shinshu hot springs (onsen)
- Features historical Shinshu structures and traditional crafts
- Features shopping