Itinerary

A 5-day road trip from Narita Airport to Nagano sounds like an amazing adventure! Let’s dive into an itinerary that combines stunning scenery, local cuisine, and interesting stops along the way. Buckle up, and let’s hit the road!

## Day 1: Narita to Nagano

Morning:

• Start your journey! After picking up your rental car at Narita Airport, grab a quick breakfast at a local café. Try some Japanese pastries or a hearty bowl of ramen if you’re feeling adventurous!

Mid-Morning:

• Stop at Matsumoto Castle: On your way to Nagano, take a detour to Matsumoto. This stunning castle is one of Japan's most beautiful and is surrounded by picturesque scenery. Spend some time exploring the castle grounds and the charming city.

Lunch:

• Local Soba: Matsumoto is famous for its soba noodles. Enjoy a delicious soba lunch at a local restaurant. You can try cold soba with dipping sauce or hot soba in broth.

Afternoon:

• Explore Matsumoto: After lunch, stroll through Nakamachi Street, lined with traditional wooden buildings and shops. Don’t forget to check out the Matsumoto City Museum of Art!

Evening:

• Drive to Nagano City: Head to Nagano City (about 1 hour from Matsumoto). Check into your accommodation and freshen up.

Dinner:

• Local Cuisine: Try some “oyaki” (stuffed dumplings) or “yuba” (tofu skin) at a local izakaya. Nagano is known for its fresh ingredients, so enjoy the local flavors!

## Day 2: Nagano City and Surroundings

Morning:

• Zenko-ji Temple: Start your day with a visit to the famous Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan's most important Buddhist temples. Take your time to explore the temple and its beautiful surroundings.

Lunch:

• Nagano’s Famous Apple Pie: Grab a slice of apple pie at a local café. Nagano is known for its delicious apples!

Afternoon:

• Visit the Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum: Enjoy some art and culture. The museum has a lovely collection of modern and traditional art.

Evening:

• Dinner in Nagano: Try “sanzokuyaki,” a local grilled chicken dish, at a nearby restaurant.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Hakuba

Morning:

• Drive to Hakuba: After breakfast, head to Hakuba (about 1 hour from Nagano). This area is famous for its ski resorts, but it’s also beautiful in the summer and fall!

Mid-Morning:

• Hakuba Happo-One: Take a scenic gondola ride up to the mountain for breathtaking views. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike around the area.

Lunch:

• Local Cuisine: Enjoy lunch at a mountain lodge. Try “Hida beef” if you can find it; it’s a local delicacy!

Afternoon:

• Explore the Village: Spend some time exploring the charming village of Hakuba. You can visit local shops or take a leisurely walk around the area.

Evening:

• Return to Nagano: Head back to Nagano City.

Dinner:

• Try “Shinshu Beef”: Treat yourself to a nice dinner featuring Shinshu beef, known for its quality and flavor.

## Day 4: Nagano to Nozawa Onsen

Morning:

• Drive to Nozawa Onsen: After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Nozawa Onsen (about 1 hour). This charming hot spring village is a must-visit!

Mid-Morning:

• Explore the Village: Wander through the quaint streets, and don’t miss the public hot springs (onsen) scattered throughout the village.

Lunch:

• Local Onsen Cuisine: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. Try “nozawana” (a type of pickled vegetable) which is a specialty of the area.

Afternoon:

• Relax in an Onsen: Spend some time soaking in one of the public onsens. It’s a perfect way to unwind and experience local culture.

Evening:

• Dinner in Nozawa Onsen: Try “soba” again, as it’s a local favorite here too.

## Day 5: Return to Tokyo

Morning:

• Drive back to Nagano City: After breakfast, take a leisurely drive back to Nagano City.

Mid-Morning:

• Visit the Togakushi Shrine: On your way back, stop at the Togakushi Shrine, known for its beautiful forested paths and serene atmosphere.

Lunch:

• Local Soba in Togakushi: Enjoy some soba noodles at a local restaurant near the shrine.

Afternoon:

• Head back to Tokyo: Start your drive back to Tokyo (about 3 hours).

Evening:

• Return the Car: Drop off your rental car and head to Hop Inn Ueno.

Dinner:

• Explore Ueno: Enjoy your last dinner in Tokyo. Try some sushi or ramen at a local eatery to wrap up your trip!

And there you have it! A delightful 5-day itinerary filled with local food, beautiful sights, and cultural experiences. Enjoy your trip to Nagano and safe travels! 🌸🚗🍜