Best Things to do in Nagano | Must-see attractions 2025

Zenko-ji Temple

6:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

I-491 Motoyoshicho

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Zenko-ji Temple, a prominent Buddhist site, is located in Nagano, Japan, renowned for its treasure house and rich historical significance.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Joyama Zoo

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Zoo

2 Chome-1-19 Uematsu

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Joyama Zoo in Nagano, Japan offers free entry to see sea lions, penguins, and monkeys, alongside rides and play areas for children.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free.

Chausuyama Dinosaur Park

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

Shinonoiokada

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Chausuyama Dinosaur Park in Nagano, Japan, is a free city park featuring dinosaur statues with slides, a picnic area, and entertainment for families and children.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. No ticket purchase required for entry.

Bell tower of the former Matsushiro domain

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Monument

10 Matsushiromachi

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The Bell Tower of the former Matsushiro domain in Nagano, Japan, is an important historic site from the Edo period, showcasing traditional Japanese architecture.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may incur charges.

Zouzan Shrine

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

1502 Matsushiro-cho Matsushiro Takeyama-cho

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Zouzan Shrine, a Shinto shrine in Nagano, Japan, offers visitors a spiritual experience through its traditional architecture and lush natural surroundings.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Tatsuno Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

2407-1 Higuchi

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Tatsuno Museum in Nagano, Japan showcases contemporary art with unique architectural design and rich cultural significance. A hub for art enthusiasts and local history.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Admission Fee: 500 JPY for adults, 300 JPY for students. Children under 12 are free.

Kojinyama Park

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

Higuchi

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Kojinyama Park in Nagano, Japan, features a reservoir, tennis courts, and scenic natural landscapes, ideal for recreation and relaxation.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may incur a fee.

Komaba Park

Open 24 hours

Park

55 Sarukubo Maruyama

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Komaba Park in Saku, Japan, features tennis courts and expansive green spaces ideal for relaxation and leisure activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Nagano City Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1414 Oshimadamachi

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Nagano City Museum features exhibits on local history, culture, and a planetarium. Engage with Nagano's heritage through artifacts and interactive displays.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Wakasato Park

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

295-1 Wakasato

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Wakasato Park in Nagano, Japan, features lush greenery, walking trails, and seasonal flower displays, making it a family-friendly outdoor destination.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. No entry fee is required.

Mochizuki Tokyu Golf Club

6:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

3597-27 Kyowa

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Mochizuki Tokyu Golf Club in Nagano, Japan offers a challenging 18-hole course with scenic mountain views, designed for golf enthusiasts.

Duration: 4-5 hours.

Paid. Green fees apply for access to the golf course.

Kawanakajima Country Club

6:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

5292 Shinonoiutabi

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Kawanakajima Country Club in Nagano, Japan, offers a challenging golf experience amidst scenic mountains, designed by renowned architect Shojiro Sata.

Duration: 4-5 hours.

Paid. Green fees apply; discounts available for members.

Joyama Park

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

1 Chome-7-1 Hakoshimizu

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Joyama Park in Nagano, Japan features large dinosaur models amidst beautiful landscaping, offering a unique outdoor experience for visitors of all ages.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Saiko-ji Temple

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

1398 Kitaishidocho

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Saiko-ji Temple in Nagano, Japan, is a serene Buddhist temple known for its historical significance and tranquil surroundings.

Duration: About 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are encouraged but not required.

Omata Bridge

Open 24 hours

Bridge

〒399-5302 長野県木曽郡南木曽町吾妻７９７

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Omata Bridge in Nagano, Japan is a historic bridge renowned for its traditional architecture and scenic views, epitomizing the region's natural beauty.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. No ticket required for access.

K's TW

9:00 AM–8:00 PM

Mall

若里3丁目22-1

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K's TW in Nagano, Japan, offers a unique blend of traditional and modern aesthetics with innovative facilities perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Some special workshops and culinary events may require a paid ticket.

again hall

9:00 AM–8:00 PM

Event hall

南長野北石堂町1429-1 (again 7F)

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Again Hall in Nagano, Japan, is an architectural gem noted for its unique design and cultural significance. It hosts various events, showcasing local talent and art.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require tickets.

Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum

Museum

1-4-4 Hakoshimizu Zenkoji Higashidonari Shiroyama Park Nai

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Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum features a diverse collection of art, showcasing local and historical works, set in Nagano, Japan.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Tsumago-juku

9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Landmark

吾妻-2159-2 南木曽町 Nagiso

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Tsumago-juku is a restored, traditional Edo-era town in Nagano, Japan. This historic town features 18th-century homes, a 12th-century shrine, a 16th-century temple, and a museum, offering a glimpse into Japan's past.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Togakushi Shrine

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Landmark

Togakushi

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Togakushi Shrine is an ancient Shinto shrine located in a lush mountain area of Nagano, Japan. It is known for its beautiful forests and historic buildings, making it a significant site for both worship and nature appreciation.

duration: approx. 1-2 hours

free

Old Battlefield of Kawanakajima

9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Sights

1384-1 Oshimadamachi

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Old Battlefield of Kawanakajima is a large park on the site of a historic battlefield from the 1500s. Visitors can explore historical exhibits, walk along scenic paths, and enjoy picnic areas surrounded by nature.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Chausuyama Zoo

9:00 AM-4:00 PM

Zoo

570-1 Shinonoiutabi

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Chausuyama Zoo is a city zoo located in Nagano, Japan. It features a variety of animals, a botanical garden, and offers great views of the surrounding area.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

South Nagano Sports Park

9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Landmark

３２０ Shinonoitofukuji

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South Nagano Sports Park offers tennis courts and an ice skating rink for visitors. It is a great place for sports lovers to enjoy outdoor and indoor activities in a beautiful setting.

Duration: approx. 2-3 hours

Free