Where to Stay in Nagano 🇯🇵: Top Recommendations for Best Places

Nestled in the heart of Japan’s Alps, Nagano Prefecture is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and world-class winter sports. From the iconic snow monkeys of Jigokudani to the pristine ski slopes of Hakuba, Nagano offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to stay in Nagano, whether you’re seeking a cultural immersion, an adrenaline-pumping ski adventure, or a relaxing onsen retreat.

Our pick of the best hotels in Nagano: 🔥

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Saihokukan Hotel
• ✨ 5-Star: Shibu Onsen KOKUYA
• 🏨 4-Star: Compass
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Chisun Grand Nagano
• 💸 Cheap: Guesthouse Azumaya
• 🏢 Apartment: Hakuba Downtown Apartments
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Hakuba Amber Resort by Jade Group
• 🏩 For Couples: Ryokan Biyunoyado

We’ll take you on a journey through the prefecture’s most captivating areas, including the bustling city of Nagano with its ancient Zenkoji Temple, the picturesque castle town of Matsumoto, the hot spring paradise of Yamanouchi, and the powder snow haven of Hakuba. Each destination has its own unique charm and array of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.

Quick Nagano Neighborhood Guide: ☀️

• 🏙️ For Urban Convenience and Historical Charm: Nagano City
• 🏰 For Castle Town Atmosphere and Art Scene: Matsumoto
• 🐒 For Snow Monkeys and Hot Springs: Yamanouchi
• ⛷️ For World-Class Skiing and Outdoor Adventures: Hakuba Valley
• 🛍️ For Upscale Mountain Resort Experience: Karuizawa
• 🏘️ For Traditional Japan and Historic Trails: Kiso Valley

1. Nagano City – Where to Stay for Urban Convenience with Historical Charm 🏙️

🏙️ City overview: Nagano City is the largest city in the prefecture and a perfect base for exploring central Japan. At the heart of the city lies Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most important Buddhist sites. This 7th-century marvel is a must-visit attraction. I recommend joining the morning prayer ceremony for a truly immersive experience. The temple’s surrounding area is a treasure trove of traditional Japanese architecture and quaint shops.

🔑 Hidden gem: Don’t miss the chance to navigate the pitch-black tunnel beneath the main hall. It’s said that touching the “key to paradise” hidden within brings enlightenment!

🚌 Easy access: When it comes to getting around, Nagano City is a breeze. The efficient train and bus network makes it easy to explore both the city and the surrounding region. From here, you can easily access popular attractions like:

• Snow Monkey Park in Jigokudani (about 45 minutes by train)
• Togakushi Shrine, nestled in a beautiful forest (30 minutes by bus)
• Multiple ski resorts, including the famous Shiga Kogen (1-2 hours by bus)
• The picturesque hot spring town of Nozawa Onsen (about an hour by train)

🍜 Local eats: For food lovers, Nagano boasts some of the best local cuisine in Japan. I suggest trying the region’s specialties:

1. Soba noodles (Nagano is famous for its buckwheat)
2. Oyaki dumplings (filled with various vegetables or sweet bean paste)
3. Shinshu beef (locally raised and incredibly tender)
4. Apple-based desserts (Nagano is known for its delicious apples)

🌙 Evening vibes: While Nagano might not be known for its wild nightlife, it offers plenty of cozy izakayas and bars around Nagano Station.

⛷️ Winter wonderland: For those interested in winter sports, Nagano is one of Japan’s premier destinations. The city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics, and the legacy lives on in its world-class facilities. Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, or even snowshoeing, you’ll find plenty of options within easy reach of the city.

🚄 Quick trips:  Use the Hokuriku Shinkansen for quick access to other major cities. You can reach Tokyo in about 80 minutes or Kanazawa in 2 hours.

Best hotels in Nagano City: 🏨

⭐ Best hotels

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Chisun Grand Nagano – A comfortable 3-star hotel offering well-appointed rooms and a convenient location near Nagano Station. Visitors can enjoy the hotel’s breakfast buffet and make use of the on-site laundry facilities.
• APA Hotel Nagano – This 3-star property provides compact, efficiently designed rooms perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Guests can relax in the public bath and enjoy easy access to local attractions.
• Dormy Inn Nagano – This hotel offers comfortable rooms and a complimentary late-night ramen service. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking relaxation after a day of sightseeing.

🛏️ Best hostels

• Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nagano-Zenkojiguchi – This hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms and a convenient location near Zenkoji Temple. Guests can enjoy a daily breakfast buffet and make use of the coin-operated laundry facilities.
• Smile Hotel Nagano – A budget-friendly option providing simple yet comfortable accommodations. The hotel features a 24-hour front desk and is conveniently located for exploring Nagano city.
• Mash Cafe & Bed NAGANO – This unique property combines a cafe with accommodation, offering a cozy and social atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking to meet other guests and experience a more casual stay.

2. Matsumoto – Castle Town with Artistic Flair 🏰

🏯 Castle charm: The crown jewel of this charming town is undoubtedly Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful original castles. I never tire of admiring its striking black and white exterior, which has earned it the nickname “Crow Castle”.

🏞️ Alpine gateway: Beyond its historical allure, Matsumoto is the perfect base for exploring some of Japan’s most breathtaking natural scenery. I recommend taking a day trip to Kamikochi, a stunning alpine valley that’s often referred to as the “Japan Alps’ Yosemite”. The crystal-clear Azusa River, surrounded by towering peaks, creates a landscape that’s nothing short of magical.

🎨 Art scene: What sets Matsumoto apart is its vibrant art scene. The city is home to several world-class museums, including:

1. Matsumoto City Museum of Art – housing works by Yayoi Kusama
2. Japan Ukiyo-e Museum – boasting the world’s largest collection of ukiyo-e woodblock prints
3. Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum – showcasing traditional crafts from across Japan

🍜 Culinary delights: Don’t miss trying:

• Soba noodles – Nagano is famous for its buckwheat, and Matsumoto’s soba is top-notch
• Oyaki – savory dumplings filled with vegetables or sweet bean paste
• Taiko-mochi – a sweet rice cake unique to the region

🚶‍♂️ Walking wonderland: The city center is compact, with most major attractions within easy strolling distance. Take a leisurely walk down Nakamachi Street, lined with well-preserved kura (storehouse) buildings now housing cafes, craft shops, and galleries.

🚂 Easy access: Matsumoto is well-connected by train and bus to other major cities in the region. You can reach it in about 2.5 hours from Tokyo by express train, making it perfect for a weekend getaway or as part of a longer Nagano itinerary.

🏔️ Seasonal spectacle: Each season brings its own charm to Matsumoto. Spring sees the castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, summer offers relief from the heat of bigger cities, autumn paints the surrounding mountains in vibrant colors, and winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland.

Time Saver: If you’re short on time, consider taking a guided tour that combines Matsumoto Castle with nearby attractions like the historic post towns of Narai or Tsumago on the Nakasendo trail.

Best hotels in Matsumoto: 🏨

⭐ Best hotels

• Onyado Nono Matsumoto Natural Hot Spring – This 4-star hotel offers a perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional Japanese elements, featuring natural hot baths. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms with city views and easy access to Matsumoto’s main attractions.
• Hotel Buena Vista – Located in the heart of Matsumoto, this 4-star hotel boasts panoramic views of the Japanese Alps from its upper floors. Visitors can relax in well-appointed rooms and enjoy the hotel’s multiple dining options and fitness facilities.
• Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu – This elegant 4-star property combines traditional Japanese hospitality with modern facilities, offering both Western and Japanese-style rooms.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Toyoko Inn Matsumoto eki Higashi guchi – A practical 3-star hotel conveniently located near Matsumoto Station, offering comfortable rooms with essential amenities. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers seeking a clean and efficient stay.
• Toyoko Inn Matsumoto Ekimae Hommachi – Another budget-friendly option from the Toyoko Inn chain, this 3-star hotel provides simple yet comfortable accommodations close to Matsumoto Station and local attractions.
• Dormy Inn Matsumoto – This 3-star hotel stands out with its complimentary ramen noodles at night and natural hot baths. Guests can enjoy well-equipped rooms and a central location perfect for exploring Matsumoto’s attractions.

🛏️ Best hostels

• Asama Onsen FAN! MATSUMOTO – A unique blend of hostel and spa, this property offers budget-friendly accommodations with access to natural hot baths. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a social atmosphere and relaxation opportunities.
• Guesthouse Azumaya – This charming guesthouse provides a cozy, home-like atmosphere with traditional Japanese-style rooms. Guests can experience authentic local hospitality and enjoy shared facilities in a budget-friendly setting.
• Guesthouse Tomoshibi – Offering a mix of dormitory and private rooms, this guesthouse provides a friendly, communal atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the shared lounge and kitchen facilities while staying in the heart of Matsumoto.

3. Yamanouchi – Snow Monkeys and Hot Springs Paradise 🐒

🐒 Monkey business: The snow monkeys of Jigokudani are the stars of the show here. I recommend visiting year-round, but there’s something magical about seeing these furry creatures surrounded by snow in winter. The sight of steam rising from the hot springs as monkeys soak contentedly is truly unforgettable.

Insider Tip: The park is within walking distance from the nearest bus stop, but be prepared for a 30-minute hike.

♨️ Onsen paradise: Yamanouchi isn’t just about monkeys – it’s one of Japan’s premier hot spring destinations. The town is home to several onsen areas, including Shibu Onsen, a picturesque hot spring town with nine public baths, Yudanaka Onsen, known for its ryokans and outdoor baths, and Kanbayashi Onsen, the closest to Jigokudani Monkey Park. I suggest trying a traditional ryokan experience here.

Top attractions in Yamanouchi include:

1. Jigokudani Monkey Park – Watch snow monkeys bathe in hot springs
2. Shibu Onsen – A picturesque hot spring town with nine public baths
3. Yudanaka Onsen – Known for its ryokans and outdoor baths
4. Shiga Kogen – Japan’s largest ski resort area
5. Kanbayashi Onsen – The closest hot spring area to the Monkey Park
6. Joshinetsu Kogen National Park – Offers hiking and outdoor activities in warmer months

🏔️ Winter wonderland: Yamanouchi is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. It’s home to some of Nagano’s best ski resorts, including Shiga Kogen, Japan’s largest ski area, Kita Shiga Kogen, great for families and beginners, and Yokoteyama, which boasts Japan’s highest ski slopes.

Top Tip: Visit one of the many foot baths (ashiyu) scattered around town. They’re free to use and perfect for warming up on a chilly day!

🚆 Easy access: Yamanouchi is well-connected by train and bus. You can reach it from Nagano Station in about 45 minutes, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway. The town itself is compact, and most attractions are within walking distance or accessible by local buses.

Money Saver: Consider purchasing a multi-day pass for the ski resorts if you plan on hitting the slopes frequently. It can save you a significant amount compared to daily tickets.

Best hotels in Yamanouchi: 🏨

⭐ Best hotels

• Shibu Onsen KOKUYA – This luxurious 5-star ryokan offers a traditional Japanese experience with modern comforts, featuring private hot baths in every room. Guests can indulge in exquisite kaiseki meals and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the historic Shibu Onsen area.
• Hotel Grand Phenix Okushiga – A sophisticated ski-in/ski-out resort offering spacious rooms with stunning mountain views and easy access to the slopes.
• Ryokan Biyunoyado – This elegant ryokan combines traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern facilities, featuring rooms with private open-air baths overlooking the mountains. Guests can enjoy seasonal kaiseki cuisine and relax in the communal hot spring facilities.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Hotel Omodaka – A comfortable 3-star hotel offering a blend of Western and Japanese-style rooms with mountain views.
• Yudanaka Yasuragi – This cozy 3-star ryokan provides a warm, homely atmosphere with traditional Japanese-style rooms and shared hot baths. Guests can savor home-cooked meals and experience authentic Japanese hospitality.
• Shimaya – A charming 3-star ryokan offering a genuine Japanese experience with tatami rooms and futon bedding. Visitors can relax in the public baths and enjoy easy access to the famous snow monkey park.

🛏️ Best hostels

• Uotoshi Ryokan – This traditional ryokan provides a peaceful retreat with its Japanese-style rooms and hot baths. Guests can enjoy local cuisine and the convenience of being close to Yudanaka Station.
• Shibu Onsen Koishiya Ryokan – A quaint ryokan offering a blend of traditional and modern accommodations in the heart of Shibu Onsen. Visitors can experience the town’s famous nine public baths and enjoy the ryokan’s own hot spring facilities.
• Daimaru Ryokan – This welcoming ryokan offers comfortable Japanese-style rooms and access to the town’s public hot springs. Guests can enjoy homemade meals and the friendly, family-run atmosphere.

4. Hakuba Valley – Powder Snow and Adventure Central ⛷️

🏂 Ski paradise: The valley boasts multiple world-class ski resorts, with Happo-One being the most renowned. The views of the surrounding Alps from the slopes are simply breathtaking.

Here’s a quick rundown of what Hakuba offers ski and snowboard lovers:

• 11 ski resorts with over 200 runs
• Some of Japan’s steepest slopes
• Abundant powder snow (average 11 meters annually)
• Terrain suitable for all levels, from beginners to experts
• Night skiing options at several resorts

Insider Tip: Consider buying a Hakuba Valley Pass for access to multiple resorts. It’s a great way to experience the variety of slopes the area has to offer.

🌄 Summer adventures: Don’t think Hakuba is just a winter destination. When the snow melts, the valley transforms into a hiking and mountain biking paradise. The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route opens up, offering spectacular views of snow walls that can reach up to 20 meters high!

🚆 Easy access: You can reach it by train or bus from major cities like Tokyo, Nagoya, or Nagano. The Iiyama Station, connected to Tokyo by the Hokuriku Shinkansen, is just a short bus ride away from Hakuba.

Time Saver: If you’re coming from Tokyo, consider taking the direct bus to Hakuba. It’s often cheaper and more convenient than the train.

Money Saver: Visit during the shoulder seasons (early December or late March) for cheaper accommodation and fewer crowds, while still enjoying great snow conditions.

Best hotels in Hakuba: 🏨

⭐ Best hotels

• THE HAPPO by Hakuba Hospitality Group – This luxurious 5-star property offers stylish accommodations with stunning mountain views and modern facilities. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant, bar, and convenient ski-to-door access.
• Phoenix Chalets by Hakuba Hospitality Group – These upscale chalets provide a perfect blend of Western comfort and Japanese aesthetics, featuring private hot tubs and fully-equipped kitchens. Visitors can take advantage of the ski shuttle service and concierge assistance for a seamless mountain experience.

• Hakuba Amber Resort by Jade Group – This elegant resort boasts spacious rooms with mountain views and offers a range of amenities including an indoor pool, spa, and multiple dining options. Ski enthusiasts will appreciate the ski storage and equipment rental services.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Courtyard by Marriott Hakuba – This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms with mountain views and easy access to ski lifts. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant, fitness center, and convenient ski storage facilities.
• Hakuba Downtown Apartments – These well-appointed apartments provide a home-away-from-home experience with fully-equipped kitchens and spacious living areas. The property’s central location offers easy access to restaurants, shops, and ski facilities.

• Wadano Gateway Suites & Apartments – This property offers a mix of hotel rooms and apartments, all featuring modern facilitiesand mountain views. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar and convenient shuttle service to nearby ski areas.

🛏️ Best hostels

• Keimichi Guest House – This cozy guesthouse provides a budget-friendly option with a warm, homely atmosphere and shared facilities. It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking to connect with other guests and experience local hospitality.
• Hakuba Sun Valley Hotel Annex – This comfortable hotel offers simple yet well-equipped rooms and easy access to ski areas. Guests can relax in the public bath after a day on the slopes and enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant.
• Villa Komakusa – A charming villa-style accommodation offering a cozy and intimate stay. Visitors can enjoy the self-catering facilities and the property’s proximity to ski resorts and hiking trails.

5. Karuizawa – Chic Mountain Resort Getaway 🛍️

🚅 Easy access: The journey to Karuizawa is half the fun. Hop on the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo, and before you know it, you’re stepping off at Karuizawa Station into crisp mountain air. It’s no wonder this town has been a favorite summer retreat for Tokyo’s elite for over a century.

🛍️ Shopping paradise: One of Karuizawa’s main draws is its fantastic shopping scene. The Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza is a must-visit. With over 200 outlets, it’s a shopaholic’s dream. I always find great deals on international and Japanese brands here.

🌲 Nature’s embrace: Despite its popularity, Karuizawa has managed to preserve its natural beauty. The town is surrounded by lush forests and sits at the foot of Mount Asama, an active volcano. Here are some outdoor activities I recommend:

1. Hiking the Karuizawa Wild Bird Sanctuary
2. Cycling along the Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street
3. Golfing at one of the town’s picturesque courses
4. Visiting the serene Shiraito Falls

🍁 Year-round appeal: While Karuizawa shines as a summer retreat, it’s beautiful year-round. Spring brings cherry blossoms, autumn offers stunning foliage, and winter transforms the town into a cozy ski destination.

🏂 Winter wonderland: Speaking of winter, Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort might not be the largest, but it’s perfect for families and beginners. The resort’s proximity to the station and shopping areas makes it incredibly convenient.

Insider Tip: For a unique dining experience, try the restaurant in the former Karuizawa station building. It offers great food with a side of railway history.

🏯 Cultural exploration: Between shopping and nature walks, take time to explore Karuizawa’s cultural side. Visit the Sezon Museum of Modern Art or the intriguing Hiroshi Senju Museum. The historic Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street offers a glimpse into the town’s past with its charming wooden buildings.

Best hotels in Karuizawa: 🏨

⭐ Best hotels

• Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel and Resort – This luxurious 5-star resort boasts elegant rooms with modern facilitiesand stunning mountain views. Guests can indulge in the on-site spa, multiple dining options, and outdoor activities like tennis and golf.
• SHISHI-IWA-HOUSE Karuizawa – A unique architectural marvel, this hotel offers an intimate experience with only 10 rooms, each featuring contemporary design and private terraces. Visitors can enjoy the communal living spaces, library, and tranquil forest surroundings.

• The Prince Karuizawa – This upscale resort provides spacious rooms with mountain or garden views and access to an 18-hole golf course. Guests can relax in the natural hot baths or enjoy various seasonal activities on the property.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Hoshino Resorts BEB5 Karuizawa – A stylish and modern hotel that caters to young travelers, offering unique communal spaces and activities. The rooms feature contemporary designs, and guests can enjoy the on-site bar, restaurant, and various entertainment options.
• Karuizawa Prince Hotel East – This family-friendly resort offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza. Guests can enjoy the indoor and outdoor hot baths, multiple dining options, and proximity to ski slopes in winter.

• Eau Sol Vert Karuizawa Club – A charming resort featuring cottage-style accommodations surrounded by nature. Visitors can enjoy the outdoor pool, tennis courts, and on-site restaurant serving French-inspired cuisine.

🛏️ Best hostels

• APA Hotel Karuizawa Ekimae Karuizawaso – This conveniently located hotel offers compact, well-equipped rooms perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Guests can relax in the public bath and enjoy easy access to Karuizawa Station and local attractions.
• Comfort Inn Karuizawa – A practical and comfortable hotel offering clean, no-frills rooms ideal for short stays. Guests can enjoy the complimentary breakfast and take advantage of the hotel’s convenient location near Karuizawa Station.

6. Kiso Valley – Step Back in Time on the Nakasendo 🏘️

🛤️ Historic highway: The Nakasendo was one of five major routes connecting Edo (modern-day Tokyo) with Kyoto during the Edo period. Today, the best-preserved section runs through the Kiso Valley, dotted with charming post towns that once served as rest stops for travelers.

🏯 Time-travel towns: The star attractions of the Kiso Valley are its beautifully preserved post towns. I recommend visiting:

1. Narai-juku: Known as the “town of a thousand houses,” it’s the largest and best-preserved post town.
2. Tsumago-juku: A picture-perfect town that feels like stepping into a samurai-era movie set.
3. Magome: Famous for its steep cobblestone street lined with traditional buildings.

Insider Tip: Stay overnight in a traditional ryokan in one of these towns. It’s the best way to experience the area’s timeless atmosphere after the day-trippers have left.

🥾 Hiking heaven: The Nakasendo trail offers fantastic hiking opportunities. The 8-kilometer stretch between Magome and Tsumago is particularly popular. As you walk, you’ll pass through forests, rice fields, and small villages, much like travelers did centuries ago.

🚆 Easy access: Despite its rural charm, the Kiso Valley is surprisingly accessible. Regular trains run from Nagoya to the main towns in the valley. From Tokyo, you can reach the area in about 3 hours using a combination of bullet train and local lines.

Money Saver: Consider purchasing a Kiso Valley 2-Day Pass, which offers unlimited travel on buses and trains in the area.

Best hotels in Kiso Valley: 🏨

• Morino Hotel – This charming hotel offers a blend of traditional Japanese and modern facilities, featuring rooms with tatami floors and futon bedding.
• Komao – A cozy ryokan-style accommodation that provides an authentic Japanese experience with its beautifully decorated rooms and communal baths. Visitors can indulge in exquisite kaiseki meals prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
• Tsutaya Tokinoyado Kazari – This elegant property combines traditional Japanese architecture with modern comforts, offering spacious rooms with private open-air baths. Guests can unwind in the public spring baths and enjoy the serene garden views.

FAQs about trips to Nagano ❔

How many days to stay in Nagano?

Most visitors spend 1 to 3 days in Nagano, which allows time to see the main attractions like Zenkoji Temple, visit the snow monkeys, and potentially do a day trip to nearby areas. With 3 full days, you can explore Nagano city, take a day trip to the Jigokudani Monkey Park, and spend a day visiting Matsumoto Castle or one of the ski resorts.

Where to stay in Nagano for skiing?

For skiing, the best places to stay are in the Hakuba Valley, which offers multiple world-class ski resorts and a range of accommodation options. Alternatively, Shiga Kogen is another excellent choice, boasting Japan’s largest ski area with interconnected resorts and ski-in/ski-out lodging options.

Where to stay in Nagano in winter?

In winter, popular areas to stay include Hakuba for its ski resorts and vibrant atmosphere, or Yamanouchi town for easy access to the snow monkeys and traditional onsen experience. Nagano City itself is also a good base, offering easy access to various winter attractions and ski resorts via public transportation.

Where To Stay In & Around Shiga Kogen?

Shiga Kogen offers several accommodation options within its ski area, with the most convenient being the ski-in/ski-out hotels at the base of the slopes. The Prince Hotels (East, South, and West) are popular choices, offering direct access to the ski lifts and various amenities like restaurants and hot springs.

Where to Stay in Hakuba?

Hakuba offers a wide range of accommodation spread across different areas, with Hakuba Village being the most popular due to its central location and amenities. Within Hakuba Village, you can choose between the lively Happo-One area near the bus terminal, the forested Wadano area for a more secluded feel, or the Echoland area known for its restaurants and bars.