From Tokyo & Osaka
Nagano City is in central Japan, meaning it is stress-free and easy to access from Tokyo. A Shinkansen departs Tokyo Station for Nagano Station every 30 minutes, with travel durations ranging between 1h 20 mins and 1h 50 mins depending on the specific train selected. Journeying from Osaka demands a bit more time, taking approximately 4 hours, and involves an interchange in Nagoya. Despite the extended travel duration from Osaka, prices remain comparable to those from Tokyo and are covered by the JR pass.
Nagano snow resorts
Nagano station is the gateway to all major ski resorts in Nagano prefecture. Resort shuttle buses leave directly from Nagano station as well as all connecting local trains. Resorts accessed via Nagano include: 8 peaks, Hakuba, Madarao Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, Ryuoo, Shiga Kogen, Togari Onsen and Yamaboku. The location serves as an stop over on route to the mountains.
Nagano strain station
The Nagano train station redesign & Hokuriku shinkansen line were completed in 2015.
We suggest staying at the Hotel Metroplitan which is actually connected to Nagano train station and right in the middle of the city. This will give you easy access to the cities bars, resteraunts and other attractions and make life easier when arriving and departing Nagano. We can package your Nagano hotel booking and transfers with your snow accommodation.
Zenko-ji Temple
Zenko-ji Temple is the closest attraction to the Metropolitan Hotel in Nagano. You can travel to Zenko-ji in 30 mins on foot or 15 minutes by bus. The Buddhist temple, founded by Yoshimitsu Honda in 642 AD, was the centre in which the modern Nagano City was built upon. It is claimed to hold the first Buddhist statue introduced to Japan and was once part of a route in which travellers would journey through. Travellers on the way from Tokyo to Kyoto would spend days extra just to stop by Zenko-ji Temple. Witnessing such an important historical and religious sight will give you an enriched perspective on Nagano Prefecture as a whole.
Matsumoto Castle
Only one train away from Nagano station is one of Japan’s most beautiful original castles, Matsumotojō. Matsumoto castle is one of Japan’s national treasures, being built in 1504 and still standing in its original glory to its day. Matsumoto castle is nicknamed "Karasu-jo," or "Crow Castle," referring to its striking black exterior. The interior is open to the public and serves as a museum for traditional weaponry, armor and stories. Be sure to enjoy the tranquil walk around the exterior of the castle and viewing the fine architecture from all angles.
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
The Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen) is the only place in the world where you can witness snow monkeys bathing in hot springs. Jigokudani Yaen Koen, located in the valley of the Yokoyu River, is a 30-40 minute walk through dense forest. The dense forest and steep cliffs make it near impossible to witness the monkeys in the mountains. However unlike a typical zoo Jigokudani allows you to be amongst the monkeys in their natural habitat. Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is truly an experience to remember.
Hotel Metropolitan
The Hotel Metropolitan Nagano can be accessed from inside Nagano station on the Zenko-ji exit side, a short walk from the Shinkansen rails and mountain resort shuttle buses.
The Hotel Metropolitan Nagano is highly recommended, providing a welcoming and cozy atmosphere while offering the added convenience of location.
The Hotel Metropolitan Nagano is convenient, comfortable and accommodating for international guests.
The ambiance is warm and reminiscent of high-end Western hotels, yet The staff are friendly, provide great hospitality and are competent English speakers.
