5 day itinerary
Nagano
Personalized with:By carFrom narita airportReturn to tokyoLocal foodVisit city nearby or along the way to nagano
Itinerary
A 5-day road trip from to Nagano, with a return to , sounds like a fantastic adventure! Let’s dive into an itinerary that combines beautiful scenery, local cuisine, and charming towns along the way. Buckle up, and let’s hit the road!
Day 1: Arrival at & Drive to
Morning:
- Arrive at , pick up your rental car, and get ready for your journey!
- Grab a quick breakfast at the airport or a nearby café. Try some onigiri (rice balls) for a tasty start!
Afternoon:
- Hit the road towards (about a 3-hour drive). Enjoy the scenic views as you drive through the countryside.
- Once you arrive in , check into your accommodation.
Evening:
- Head to , one of Japan's most beautiful castles, especially stunning at sunset.
- For dinner, indulge in some local soba noodles at a nearby restaurant. is famous for its buckwheat noodles!
Day 2: Explore & Drive to
Morning:
- Start your day with a visit to the , where you can see works by local artists, including the famous Yayoi Kusama.
- Stroll through , lined with traditional wooden buildings and shops. Don’t forget to try some local sweets!
Afternoon:
- After lunch, drive to (about 1 hour). On the way, stop at the picturesque town of . Visit and enjoy a lakeside walk.
- Grab a bite at a local izakaya or try some -style grilled fish.
Evening:
- Arrive in and check into your hotel.
- For dinner, savor some “oyaki” (stuffed dumplings) at a local eatery. They’re a Nagano specialty!
Day 3: Day Trip to & Snow Monkey Park
Morning:
- After breakfast, head to , one of Japan’s most important Buddhist temples. Take your time exploring the beautiful grounds and don’t miss the chance to see the “hidden Buddha”!
Afternoon:
- Drive to (about 1 hour). Enjoy the scenic drive through the mountains.
- Spend the afternoon watching the famous snow monkeys soak in the hot springs. It’s a unique experience!
Evening:
- Return to and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try “nagano-gyu” (Nagano beef) for a delicious treat!
Day 4: Drive to & Explore the Area
Morning:
- After breakfast, drive to (about 1 hour). This area is known for its stunning mountain scenery and outdoor activities.
- If you’re visiting in winter, you can hit the slopes; otherwise, enjoy hiking or exploring the beautiful landscapes.
Afternoon:
- Have lunch at a local café or restaurant. Try some “Hōtō,” a hearty noodle soup that’s a local specialty.
- Spend the afternoon exploring the area, perhaps visiting the or taking a scenic lift ride for breathtaking views.
Evening:
- Head back to for dinner. Consider trying “soba” again, as each region has its own unique twist on this beloved dish!
Day 5: Return to via
Morning:
- After breakfast, check out and start your drive back to . On the way, stop in (about 1.5 hours from Nagano).
- Explore the charming streets of , known for its shopping and beautiful nature.
Afternoon:
- Have lunch at a local café. is famous for its delicious pastries, so don’t miss out on trying some!
- Visit the for some last-minute shopping or just enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Evening:
- Continue your drive back to (about 2 hours). Drop off your rental car and enjoy your last evening in the city. Perhaps treat yourself to a nice dinner in to wrap up your trip!
Tips:
- Make sure to check the weather and road conditions, especially if you’re visiting in winter.
- Keep an eye out for local festivals or events happening during your visit; they can add a special touch to your trip!
- Don’t forget to take lots of pictures and enjoy the journey!
I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Nagano and the surrounding areas! Safe travels! 🚗✨