Nagano is a city that rewards those who take the time to explore its streets, temples, and surrounding landscapes on foot. Unlike many destinations, Nagano offers a rich tapestry of experiences where history, food, and nature collide, making walking tours ideal for uncovering its authentic charm. Whether you’re savoring local snacks and sake on a guided Food & Cultural Walking Tour, wandering through sacred forests and shrines, or exploring traditional post towns along the Nakasendo trail, Nagano’s compact size makes it perfect for immersive walking adventures. Even better, many tours focus on intimate groups, allowing you to connect with local culture deeply and capture plenty of photos along the way.
One standout experience is the Food & Cultural Walking Tour around Zenkoji Temple, which combines culinary delights with stories from Nagano’s 1400-year history. For those interested in Japan’s famed sake, the Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour offers a delicious peek into local brewing traditions. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the Nakasendo Trail walk from Matsumoto, a hike through old post towns that feels like stepping back in time. And for mountain scenery, the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route delivers breathtaking views from Japan’s highest mountain pass. Here’s a deeper look at each of these top walking tours.
1. Food & Cultural Walking Tour around Zenkoji Temple in Nagano
At number 1 on our list, this Food & Cultural Walking Tour around Zenkoji Temple offers a perfect introduction to Nagano’s spiritual and culinary sides. For approximately 3 hours, you’ll explore the bustling streets around Zenkoji, sampling Japanese snacks like oyaki (stuffed dumplings), matcha, sweets, sake, and local beverages. What makes this tour stand out is the small-group format, which fosters a more personalized experience, and the guide’s efforts to take high-quality photos so you can enjoy the journey without worrying about capturing the perfect shot.
Your guide will take you off the usual tourist routes, revealing hidden shops, historic alleyways, and stories about Nagano’s 1,400-year history. Reviewers rave about the knowledgeable guides like Masa, who seamlessly blend food, history, and local culture. The tour is perfect if you love authentic tastes and want a deeper understanding of Nagano’s traditions. The price of $99 offers good value considering the variety of tastings and intimate setting.
Bottom line: If you want a relaxed, engaging walk that combines food, history, and local stories, this tour is a top pick.
2. Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour
At number 2, the Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour combines Japan’s national drink with a leisurely stroll through Nagano’s streets. For just over two hours, you’ll visit a sake brewery with over 300 years of history, sampling more than five different sakes, including Nagano’s famous plum wine and seasonal varieties. The guide will introduce you to the brewing process and help you taste the subtle differences between unfiltered, unpasteurized options and more refined brews.
Beginning at Nagano Station, the tour takes you into the heart of Zenko-ji’s shrine area, blending cultural sights with tasting stops at local shops. Reviewers highlight guides like Kazumi, who is both friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience engaging and educational. This tour is ideal for those interested in Japanese spirits or looking for a relaxed way to explore Nagano’s local craftsmanship. At $70.29, it offers excellent value considering the quality of sake and the intimate experience.
Bottom line: Perfect if you’re a sake lover or want a laid-back cultural experience with authentic tastes.
3. 1-Day Tour from Matsumoto: Walk the Nakasendo Trail
Number 3 on our list is a full-day adventure that brings you into the heart of Old Japan with this Nakasendo Trail walk from Matsumoto. Starting from Tsumago-juku, a perfectly preserved post town, you’ll learn about the historical routes that connected Edo to Kyoto. The trail covers about 8 km and takes you through scenic waterfalls, mountain vistas, and quaint villages, giving you a real sense of Japan’s traditional travel routes.
During the walk, your guide will explain how these roads were used by merchants, samurai, and pilgrims. You’ll also have a chance to enter a historic inn and see a horse-stable, bringing history alive. The walk is suitable for active travelers comfortable with some elevation change. Reviewers mention the well-preserved streets and breathtaking scenery as highlights. With a price of $229.24, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting a full outdoor and culture.
Bottom line: An ideal day trip for history buffs and outdoor lovers eager to experience Japan’s scenic mountain trails firsthand.
4. 1-Day Tateyama-Kurobe Tour: Walking on the ‘Roof of Japan’
Number 4, the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route offers a remarkable journey up to Japan’s highest mountain pass at around 2,450 meters. This tour is unique because it combines multiple modes of mountain transport—buses, cable cars, and ropeways—making the journey itself part of the experience. Once at Murodo Station, a guided walk lets you take in the stunning alpine scenery, with opportunities to see native wildlife and soak in mountain vistas.
The tour is praised for its seamless logistics and friendly English-speaking guides. Reviewers mention that the fresh snow and green landscape during the tour create striking contrasts, perfect for photography. The $271.76 price includes lunch and access to the incredible scenery that many travelers consider a highlight of Nagano. It’s best suited for those who appreciate mountain landscapes and don’t mind a full day of travel.
Bottom line: Best for mountain scenery lovers willing to spend a full day exploring Japan’s ‘Roof of the World’ with expert guidance.
5. Nagano: Tateyama-Kurobe Guided Walking Tour
At number 5, this guided walk beneath Mount Tate focuses on exploring the alpine surroundings with a local guide. Starting from Nagano Station, the tour takes you through the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route, including visits to the Kurobe Dam and Murodo. The guided walking segments are designed to showcase the region’s seasonal flora, and you’ll have time to enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.
The tour is well-reviewed for its friendly guides and detailed explanations. The 8-hour itinerary includes transportation, guided walks, and free time in Murodo, making it a comprehensive day out. For $253, it offers good value for those wanting a deeper understanding of the mountain environment without the full logistical hassle of independent travel. It’s suited for outdoor enthusiasts interested in mountain ecology and scenic walks.
Bottom line: A solid choice for travelers eager to combine transportation with scenic guided walks in Japan’s towering mountains.
6. Wasabi Farm Walking Tour & Lunch
Number 6, with its delicious focus, is the Wasabi Farm Walking Tour & Lunch. Visiting the Daio Wasabi Farm, established in 1915, you’ll see how this iconic green plant is cultivated. The guide provides commentary on wasabi’s cultural importance and cultivation techniques. The tour includes a tasting of freshly grated wasabi with soba noodles and a unique wasabi ice cream—something you won’t forget.
The farm’s location offers excellent photo opportunities, and the guide’s insights make it a fascinating visit. Priced at $67.17, it’s a great value for a half-day experience that combines education, food, and beautiful scenery. Reviewers commend the knowledgeable guide Naomi and the tasty lunch. Ideal for foodies and those curious about Japanese culinary secrets.
Bottom line: Perfect for lovers of Japanese food and those interested in traditional farming practices, with a tasty twist.
7. Togakushi: A Serene Walk Through Sacred Forests & Soba Traditions
Number 7, the Togakushi Sacred Forest Walk, offers a peaceful trek through a forested shrine complex. Starting from Nagano Station, the tour takes you to Kagami-ike Pond and the Togakushi Shrine area. Along the way, you’ll pass cedar trees, Shinto statues, and tranquil ponds—a perfect escape into nature.
The visit includes a delicious Togakushi soba lunch, renowned as one of Japan’s best. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guide Masa and the stunning scenery, even during rainy days. The $156.55 price makes it suitable for those wanting a mix of spirituality, nature, and culinary tradition. It’s perfect for culture seekers and nature lovers alike.
Bottom line: Ideal if you seek a scenic, spiritual walk combined with some of Japan’s finest soba noodles.
8. Custom Bike and Walk Countryside Adventure in Rural Japan
Number 8 offers a comprehensive 3-day countryside immersion. It’s perfect for active travelers eager to explore Japan’s rural “Snow Country” by bike and foot. You’ll cycle through rice fields, meet locals in farming hamlets, and relax in hot spring villages, experiencing authentic rural life.
The tour includes visits to Iiyama’s historic temples, the Mayumi Takahashi Doll Museum, and traditional inns. It’s a flexible, personalized experience for those with a sense of adventure and sufficient time. With a price of $588.61, it offers a deep dive into Japan’s countryside, with a focus on cultural interactions. Reviewers praise the peaceful scenery and meaningful encounters.
Bottom line: Best suited for long-term travelers seeking an immersive, multi-day rural experience.
9. Matsushiro Samurai Town Walking Tour
Number 9 is the Matsushiro Samurai Town Walking Tour. Covering sites like Matsushiro Castle Ruins and the Sanada Treasures Museum, this 4-hour walk offers a glimpse into Japan’s samurai past.
Your guide will walk you through well-preserved residences, historic castle ruins, and the Sanada family’s legacy. The tour includes a visit to the Oyaki Farm for a taste of local food. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guide and the well-preserved architecture. Priced at $132, it’s suitable for history buffs and those interested in Japan’s warrior culture.
Bottom line: A focused cultural walk that offers insight into samurai life without requiring a full day.
10. Matsumoto Sake Tasting Walking Tour
Number 10, the Matsumoto Sake Tasting Walking Tour, introduces you to local breweries and traditional sake production. This short walking tour combines visits to a sake brewery with shopping in local food stalls and the lively shopping street. It’s a concise yet flavorful way to enjoy Matsumoto’s sake scene.
The tour is especially good if you want a quick culture without a big time commitment. At $67, it’s a good value for a taste of local craftsmanship combined with city exploration. Reviewers mention how much they learned about Japanese rice wine and enjoyed the friendly atmosphere.
Bottom line: Great for sake enthusiasts or travelers with limited time in Nagano.
$67 per person
11. Nagano: Private Walking Tour with a Local
The Private Walking Tour with a Local offers a personalized approach to discovering Nagano’s hidden corners. You’ll explore without a fixed route, guided by someone passionate about sharing their city. It’s perfect for travelers who want to craft their own experience or learn insider tips.
Although the reviews are limited, the tour is priced at $55 and promises authentic connections and local insights. It’s ideal for independent travelers or those who want to tailor their sightseeing day.
Bottom line: If you prefer a customized, intimate experience with local insights, this is your best option.
12. Nagano Zenkoji Temple Town Walking Tour and Oyaki Tasting
Finally, the Zenkoji Temple Town Walk combines sacred grounds with atmospheric backstreets. This 3-hour tour guides you through Zenkoji Temple’s historic site, atmospheric backstreets, and local shops, finishing with a tasting of the famed oyaki dumplings.
While reviews are not yet available, this tour appeals to those interested in religious sites, traditional streets, and local delicacies. It’s priced at $62.07, making it an affordable way to explore Nagano’s spiritual and cultural layers.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers seeking a compact cultural and culinary experience around Nagano’s most famous temple.
$62.07 per person
How to Choose the Perfect Walking Tour in Nagano
When selecting your walking tour, consider your interests and travel style. If you’re a foodie eager to sample snacks and sake, the Food & Cultural Walking Tour or the Wasabi Farm Tour fit well. For outdoor lovers, the Nakasendo Trail and Tateyama Alpine Route offer scenic walks and mountain adventures. History buffs should consider the Samurai Town or Zenkoji Temple tour.
Budget-conscious travelers will find excellent options like the Nagano Private Tour or the Oyaki tasting. Those with more time and energy might opt for the multi-day countryside or mountain adventures.
Book early, especially in peak seasons, to secure the best guides and availability. Many tours are perfect for combining with other sightseeing, so plan your day wisely.
Final Thoughts
Nagano offers a remarkable variety of walking experiences, from historic streets and mountain passes to culinary and sake tastings. If you’re looking for a rich culture, the Food & Cultural Walking Tour and Togakushi Sacred Walk are excellent choices. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Nakasendo Trail for its scenic vistas, while those interested in Japan’s iconic sake culture can’t miss the Sake Tasting Tour.
For different types of travelers — whether you want a quick city walk, a deep cultural dive, or an active mountain day — Nagano’s walking tours have something to offer. Consider your interests, budget, and time, then pick the one that best fits your trip. And don’t forget to book early—these popular experiences fill up quickly.
Enjoy your walks through Nagano, and make sure to take your time soaking in all the sights, flavors, and stories this fascinating region has to offer.