Nagano is a treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts. Its rugged terrain, snow-covered forests, and towering mountains create the perfect backdrop for Hiking and Trekking Tours. Whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful snowshoe walk among ancient cedar trees or an exhilarating day exploring the Yatsugatake Mountains, Nagano offers diverse options for all levels. One highlight we love is the Nagano Snowshoe Hiking Tour — walking through icy forests and across frozen lakes while soaking up the winter serenity. Plus, the chance to see snow monkeys bathing in hot springs during a winter safari adds a truly unique flavor to the region’s outdoor experiences.
If you’re trying to decide which tour best fits your interests and schedule, this guide will help. We’ve compared three top options, from accessible half-day adventures to full-day private treks, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your Nagano trip.
Quick Overview of Nagano Hiking and Trekking Tours
Below you’ll find a quick summary of the best hiking and trekking adventures in Nagano:
- Nagano Snowshoe Hiking Tour — a 5-hour guided walk through cedar forests and frozen lakes, perfect for winter scenery lovers.
- Nagano Winter Special Tour “Snow Monkey and Snowshoe Hiking” — a full-day experience that combines snowshoeing with observing the famous snow monkeys in their hot spring baths.
- Nagano: Yatsugatake Mountains Private Guided Hike — a flexible, private day hike in the Yatsugatake Mountains tailored to your ability and interests.
Now, let’s explore each tour in detail to help you decide which one matches your adventure style.
1. Nagano Snowshoe Hiking Tour
For around $106.09 per person, the Nagano Snowshoe Hiking Tour offers an unforgettable 5-hour trek through winter landscapes that are hard to match elsewhere — especially with the snow-covered cedar trees and ice-crusted lakes. This tour is ideal if you want a manageable yet deeply immersive outdoor experience.
Your guide leads you along a route lined with 400-year-old cedar trees, where the silence of the forest is broken only by your footsteps and the crunch of snow. Walking on a frozen lake adds an extra thrill, offering a rare opportunity to step onto a shimmering sheet of ice. The tour explores Togakushi, an area revered for mountain ascetic practices that date back centuries. The experience is especially appealing for nature lovers and anyone interested in winter landscapes without the need for technical climbing skills.
Guests praise the tour for its picturesque scenery, attentive guides, and the cozy atmosphere Kouhei creates — sharing local stories and hot drinks. One reviewer mentions that, despite not visiting the temple due to avalanche concerns, the route was still spectacular. The tour is suited for those with moderate fitness and a love of quiet winter magic.
Bottom Line: A great choice for travelers wanting a half-day, scenic snowshoe experience with a knowledgeable guide in a peaceful forest setting.
2. Nagano Winter Special Tour “Snow Monkey and Snowshoe Hiking”
For approximately $480.15 per group (up to 8 people), this full-day tour combines wildlife viewing with winter trekking. It’s perfect if you want a mix of nature, culture, and adventure. The day starts with a visit to the famous Snow Monkey Park, where you can observe Japanese macaques soaking in natural hot springs — a uniquely Japanese sight that appeals to families and wildlife lovers alike.
Afterward, you’ll head into the snow-covered forests for a snowshoe hike around Togakushi Shrine’s grounds. This shrine has been an important site for mountain worship since ancient times and is particularly atmospheric in winter, when the snow muffles sound and blankets the temple complex. The snowshoes allow you to traverse the deep snow with ease, offering a more accessible way to explore this winter wonderland.
Kouhei, the guide, is praised for his patience and friendliness, especially with children. The experience is described as “magical,” with the snow monkeys adding a charming, playful element to the day. This tour is best suited for active families or small groups looking for a comprehensive day that blends wildlife viewing with outdoor activity.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for those wanting a full day of unique wildlife encounters combined with the physical and scenic pleasures of snowshoeing.
$480.15 per group (up to 8)
3. Nagano: Yatsugatake Mountains Private Guided Hike
If you’re after a personalized, flexible outdoor experience, the Yatsugatake Mountains Private Guided Hike offers a full-day trek for around $178 per person. Led by a certified Wilderness First Responder (WFR) guide, this is a great choice for those who want to customize their hike based on fitness level, interests, and time constraints.
The Yatsugatake range is known for its jagged volcanic peaks and lush forests, offering panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, the Southern Alps, and surrounding valleys. You can choose a gentle walk or a more challenging, full-day trek — whatever suits your stamina and curiosity. The private nature of this tour means you get dedicated attention, and your guide will tailor the route to include points of interest like alpine flora or mountain panoramas.
This tour appeals to travelers who prefer a more intimate, flexible experience away from crowds, and those who appreciate a highly personalized approach. The guide’s expertise ensures safety and insight, making the most of your day in nature.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a customized, private mountain trek with stunning views and the flexibility to explore at their own pace.
$178 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider a few key factors. If you’re short on time but want a scenic winter walk, the Snowshoe Hiking Tour provides a quick yet beautiful experience. For a full-day outing that combines wildlife and cultural sites, the Snow Monkey and Snowshoe Tour is perfect, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends. If your priority is a personalized, flexible adventure in the mountains, the private Yatsugatake hike offers the most customization.
Your budget and fitness level will also influence your choice. The half-day tours are generally more accessible, while the full-day options give a more comprehensive experience. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak winter months, to secure your preferred date and group size.
Final Thoughts
Nagano offers a wonderful range of outdoor activities — from peaceful snowshoe walks through ancient forests to exciting wildlife encounters and tailored mountain hikes. The Nagano Snowshoe Hiking Tour provides an easy introduction to winter trekking, perfect for those seeking serenity and scenic beauty. If you want a full day packed with wildlife and cultural insights, the Snow Monkey and Snowshoe Hiking Tour delivers a memorable adventure. For travelers craving complete control over their outdoor day, the Yatsugatake Mountains Private Guided Hike is hard to beat.
No matter which you choose, these tours promise authentic experiences and a deep connection to Nagano’s natural beauty. Be sure to book early, dress warmly, and enjoy the crisp winter air — Nagano’s mountains are waiting.