How to go from Tokyo to Nagano ?
Nagano, the Japanese Capital of the Winter Sports
Nagano, the Japanese Capital of the Winter Sports, is along the Hokuriku Shinkansen, which opened in March 2015 and connects Toyama and Kanazawa to Tokyo.
Along the Hokuriku Shinkansen
The Nagano Shinkansen between Tokyo and Nagano was completed in 1997, in time for the 1998 Winter Olympics and now forms part of the Hokuriku Shinkansen which opened in march 2015 and connects the northern costal town of Toyama and Kanazawa to Tokyo.
This part is covered by the Japan Rail Pass and the JR East Nagano Niigata Pass.
105 km - 0h49 - Takasaki station
124 km - 0H59 - Annakaharuna station
164 km -1H15 - Saku-Daira station
209 km -1H24 - Nagano
Discover Nagano
What to see ?
Zenko-Ji
Founded in the 7th Century, this is one of the most important temples in Japan and houses the first statue of Buddha, which was brought into Japan in the 6th century. Be sure to find the dark underground passage where the ‘Key to Paradise’, which grants salvation to those who touch it, is to be found.
Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum
This museum was established in 1966 and showcases pieces of art depicting the local area as well as art by local artists. Higashiyama Kaii, a famous Japanese master who was awed by the local scenery, donated nearly 1000 of his works to Nagano Prefecture and to house these the adjacent Higashiyama Kaii Gallery was constructed.
Discover historical and contemporary Japan with one of our Group Tours.
Where to stay ?
Ryokan Biyu No Yado 美湯の宿
2951-1 Hirao, Yudanaka Onsen, Shimotakai-gun,Yamanouchi-machi, Nagano, 381-0401
Tel : 02-6933-4126 / www.yudanakaview.co.jp
Located in the area of Yudanaka hot spring. It is easily accessible from Snow Monkey Park and Shiga Kogen areas. They have English speaking staff. Free shuttle van service from Yudanaka Station.
Hotel Metropolitan Nagano ホテルメトロポリタン長野
1346 Minami-ishido-cho, Nagano, 380-0824
Tel : 026-291-7000 / www.hotelmetropolitan-nagano.jp
An excellent choice as a travel base, as it’s conveniently located near Nagano Station. This urban style hotel provides comfort and ease,serving as a gateway to Shinshu and all of its natural richness.
Kai Alps Nagano 界 アルプス
2884-26, Taira, Omachi, Nagano, 398-0001
Tel : 050-3786-0022 / www.hoshinoresorts.com/en/resortsandhotels/kai/alps.html
Near the Tateyama Kurobe alpine route as well as the famous Hakuba ski resort, this hotel welcomes guests with hearty meals, luxurious baths and wholesome treats prepared on the wood-fired stove.
Where to eat ?
Misoya みそ屋
Extremely popular ramen with a miso broth justoutside Nagano Station. Take exit 3 from the station. Look for the bright orange sign just to the right of the traffic light.
Open daily, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.
Tel : 02-6224-1183
Oyaki Kobo おやき工房
Nagano’s famous oyaki dumplings come stuffed with vegetables in assorted flavors. Sample them at this shop directly inside Nagano Station.
Open daily, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Tel : 026-225-7885/ www.shunsaika.com