Nagano and Matsumoto, Japan: The Ultimate Travel Guide for 1 week
Nagano and Matsumoto were our next stop after the beautiful Nikko (check our guide for Nikko here). You probably have heard about Nagano mainly due to the famous Nagano snow monkeys, which are so unique, and Matsumoto for it’s famous castle! We decided to stay at the Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nagano-Zenkojiguchi, which was quite central and budget-friendly, and as for Matsumoto, we stayed at the Toyoko Inn Matsumoto Station Higashiguchi, which was also convenient and comfortable.
How to Get There?
From Nikko, it took us almost 4 hours by train, including transfers. The route might vary depending on schedules, but typically involves traveling back through Tokyo or transferring at stations like Utsunomiya or Omiya. It’s a bit of a trek, but totally worth it.
If you're coming from Tokyo, the journey to Nagano takes about 1.5 hours on the Hokuriku Shinkansen (bullet train), while Matsumoto is about 2.5 to 3 hours away, depending on the route. You can either take the Azusa limited express train from Shinjuku directly to Matsumoto or go via Nagano and transfer.
The trains in Japan are incredibly efficient, clean, and on time — it’s a travel experience in itself. Large windows make it easy to enjoy the passing scenery: think mountains, forests, rivers, and rural towns.
Pro tip: Pack a bento box from a station shop (ekiben). Some stations are famous for their regional bentos — it’s a fun and delicious way to start your journey!
Transportation & JR Pass Tips
Once you're in the region, getting around is fairly straightforward. Both Nagano and Matsumoto have convenient local buses and trains, and if you're planning to visit nearby towns like Kamikochi, Togakushi, or the Snow Monkey Park in Jigokudani, these will for sure get you there.
Now, about the JR Pass — is it worth it?
JR Pass: National vs. Regional
If you're doing a longer Japan trip (Tokyo > Nikko > Nagano > Matsumoto > Kyoto, etc.), the nationwide JR Pass could save you a lot, especially if you’re taking multiple long-distance Shinkansen rides (which are really expensive right now) within 7, 14, or 21 days.
For just this region, the JR East Nagano-Niigata Area Pass is a solid deal. It covers trains between Tokyo, Nagano, and Matsumoto, including the Hokuriku Shinkansen and the Azusa Limited Express. It's valid for 5 non-consecutive days within a 14-day period, which gives you flexibility.
When it’s worth it:
If you're doing Tokyo > Nagano > Matsumoto (and back) within a few days
If you want freedom to hop on and off JR trains without buying individual tickets
When it's not:
If you're staying put in one area for several days without much train travel
If your itinerary is more local and doesn’t include Shinkansen rides
8-Day Nagano & Matsumoto Itinerary
Explore the heart of Japan’s Chūbu region like we did, with this perfect 7-day blend of culture, history, food, and nature. Here’s our suggestion on how to make the most of your time across Nagano and Matsumoto.
Day 1: Discovering Nagano
Zenkōji Temple
One of Japan’s most important pilgrimage temples. Make sure you don’t miss the underground passage — a spiritual experience where you seek the “Key to Paradise” in total darkness.
Entry: Free | Main Hall + Museum: ¥500Nakamise Dori
On your way to the temple, stroll down this bustling shopping street lined with traditional shops, cozy cafés, and local snack stalls. It’s also a great spot for souvenir hunting.You know Sara had to try the roasted sweet potato here… again… and also make sure you try the oyaki here, which is a grilled or steamed red bean or vegetable filled bun!
Nagano Prefectural Art Museum
Modern, airy, and filled with works from Shinshu-born artists. Vasco’s tip: The terrace is made for golden hour photos and has a beautiful view.
Entry: ¥700 for permanent collection (special exhibitions may vary)Dinner Suggestion: Monzen Terrace Enya
A beautifully modern restaurant right by the temple. Great sake selection and locally-inspired dishes.It has a super relaxed vibe with a firepit outside and a bit of everything for you to try.
Day 2: Shopping & Local Flavors
MIDORI Nagano
Station-side shopping with specialty stores, food stands, and a huge range of souvenirs.Sara’s advice: Don’t leave without Shinshu apple snacks or handmade soba.
Lunch Option: Grab a bite inside MIDORI or grab a bento from the basement food hall — great for a quick, quality meal.
Dinner: Ajigen (Yakiniku)
A cozy spot for traditional Japanese BBQ — think sizzling cuts of Shinshu beef grilled right at your table. The atmosphere is casual but top-notch in flavor.Vasco was on grill duty, while Sara kept ordering more kimchi and dipping sauces. The cows here are fed with apples, so the wagyu meat is extra sweet and tender!
Day 3: Snow Monkeys & Forest Eats
Jigokudani Yaen-Koen (Snow Monkey Park)
This is the highlight of Nagano for many visitors. Watching the snow monkeys bathe in hot springs is as adorable as it sounds. Vasco got some incredible close-up shots, while Sara couldn’t stop giggling at their human-like expressions. A 30–40 min hike brings you to this hot spring haven where macaques soak in steaming baths. Back at Nagano station you can buy combined tickets that include the entry and the bus ride! It’s a 1.6 km walk from the trailhead so wear solid shoes, especially in winter!
Entry: ¥800 adults | ¥400 kidsCombined tickets: ¥1800 adults | ¥900 kids
Lunch: Enza Café (near the park entrance)
Warm and rustic with Japanese-Western fusion — perfect post-hike comfort food. Their ramen is delicious, plus they have a very cute monkey themed coffee with a marshmallow on top that you have to try!Optional Onsen: You can choose to stay nearby in Shibu Onsen instead for a traditional hot spring experience, just keep in mind that you will be further away from the center of the city.
Day 4: History, Mountains & Shrines
Kawanakajima Old Battlefield + Museum
Peaceful park with an engaging museum on Sengoku-era battles so you can lçearn a bit more about the history of the city.
Entry: ¥300Matsushiro Castle Ruins
Just stone foundations remain, but it’s also a must in Nagano.Matsushiro Underground Imperial Headquarters
WWII-era tunnels carved into the mountainside.
Entry: ¥500 | Guided tours available
Day 5: Sacred Forests of Togakushi
Togakushi Shrine (Okusha)
A truly spiritual experience tucked away in the mountains of Nagano. The shrine complex is divided into five shrines, but the Okusha (Upper Shrine) is the highlight. To get there, you’ll walk a scenic 2-kilometer path through towering 400-year-old cedar trees — it’s like entering a Studio Ghibli film.
Entry: Free
Access: Direct bus from Nagano Station to Togakushi-Okusha Iriguchi (~1 hr)
One-way fare: ¥1,350The bus ride winds through the forested mountains — a journey in itself. Once you arrive, expect a peaceful, uphill walk. Vasco couldn’t stop filming, and Sara? She was hugging trees.
Lunch: Okusha-mae Naosuke
Right at the base of the shrine trail, this charming restaurant serves up fresh, handmade soba noodles with mountain vegetables and tempura.Sara swears the soba here was the best she’s had in all of Japan.
Days 6–8: Matsumoto Magic
Matsumoto is pretty close to Nagano is it is worth visiting. We spent three days in Matsumoto, and it was worth every second. As we mentioned, we stayed at the Toyoko Inn Matsumoto Station Higashiguchi, which was convenient and comfortable.
Day 6: Streets, Shrines & Castles
Nakamachi Street
Start your Matsumoto adventure by strolling through the picturesque Nakamachi Street, lined with traditional storehouses, craft shops, cafes, and galleries. This place is heaven for unique souvenirs!Don’t forget your camera — every corner is photogenic.
Lunch: U+ Cafe and Discovery
A hip, modern café with a cozy vibe, offering delicious sandwiches, coffee, and local desserts. They even have some vegan and gluten free options!Nawate Shopping Street
Take a walk through this charming alley known for its quirky shops, including a famous pastel de nata café where you can grab a fresh Portuguese custard tart.A treat you won’t want to miss — sweet and flaky, it’s the perfect snack to continue your exploration. This street is also know as the “Kaeru-dori”, or the frog street.
Yohashira Jinja Shrine
This tranquil shrine, tucked right next to Nawate Street, offers a peaceful retreat from the busy shopping area. This place is actually one of the few shrines in Japan that worships four Shinto deities at the same time, so it’s pretty special!Matsumoto-jō Castle (Crow Castle)
Explore one of Japan’s best-preserved original castles, known for its black exterior and panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Entry: ¥700 | Combo ticket with museum availableVasco loved the view from the top, and Sara was enchanted by the moats and peaceful surroundings. Just be careful with the gigantic steps inside the castle itself, Sara had a bit of a rough time getting up there.
Dinner: Amiya
End your day at this inviting izakaya offering delicious grilled meat and a fine selection of sake. It’s a great place to unwind after a full day of sightseeing. The burger was the absolute best and the staff was super friendly so we cannot suggest this place enough!
Day 7: Dots & Deities
Matsumoto City Museum of Art
Dedicate your morning to this stunning tribute to Yayoi Kusama, the internationally famous artist. The museum houses vibrant polka dot installations and unique outdoor pieces, including a polka dot vending machine! Yayoi herself was born in Matsumoto, which makes this museum that much special.
Entry: ¥410 (permanent exhibit) | ¥900+ for special exhibitionsFukashi-jinja Shrine (深志神社)
A quiet, atmospheric shrine located just a 10-minute walk from the art museum. It’s a lovely spot to soak in the peaceful Shinto atmosphere and to take a bit of a breather.Optional Lunch/Dinner:
There are a few great places around the museum and station for ramen or yakitori (grilled chicken skewers). We would recommend Kobayashi Soba or Torishin!
Day 8: Last Stroll & Farewell
Use your final day in Matsumoto to revisit any favorite spots — take one last walk along Nakamachi Dori for souvenirs, stop by a local café, or spend more time at the Matsumoto Art Museum if you missed anything.
Don’t forget to pick up some miso or soba from a local store for souvenirs — the perfect memento of your Matsumoto adventure.
And just like that your time in Nagano and Matsumoto will fly by! Both are destinations that offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re here for the snow monkeys, the temples, or the food, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience. Vasco’s camera and Sara’s itinerary have never been happier! We had some of the best food and moments in Japan here, and we hope you can make your own amazing memories with the help of this guide!
Don’t forget to check out our other guides for Japan and follow us on Instagram and YouTube for extra tips, behind-the-scenes moments, and more travel inspiration. See you on the next adventure!
