Nagano isn’t just about snow-capped mountains and Zenkoji Temple; it’s a treasure trove for history lovers. Its small towns, like Obuse, are packed with stories of artists, craftsmen, and ancient cultures. One of our favorite experiences is the 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour. You get to walk in the footsteps of Hokusai Katsushika, Japan’s most famous ukiyo-e artist, see his original works, visit his studio, and even view his last massive piece—the phoenix at Gansho-in Temple. It’s a well-rounded day that beautifully combines art, history, and local life.
If you prefer a shorter but equally enriching experience, the Heritage Town, Cuisine, Sake & Art: Explore Hokusai in Obuse offers a hands-on exploration of Hokusai’s legacy, local food, and cultural sights in about 4.5 hours. For those who love trying local flavors in a relaxed setting, the Nagano Cooking Tour (Make Oyaki & Stroll Historic Streets) combines making traditional dumplings with a walk through historic streets near Zenkoji Temple. And for those interested in Japan’s ancient past, the Jomon 2-Day Historical Spirits Tour offers a deep dive into the culture of the 10,000-year-old Jomon era, perfect for history enthusiasts willing to spend more time and money.
1. 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan
Walking in Obuse with an eye on Hokusai is a rewarding way to see Nagano’s cultural side. This tour is ideal for art lovers who want a comprehensive look at the artist’s life and work. Starting from Nagano Station, you visit Hokusai’s original studio, the Obuse Hokusai-kan Museum with its rotating exhibits covering his ukiyo-e, manga, and surimono. The highlight for many is Gansho-in Temple’s giant phoenix, Hokusai’s final masterpiece. The tour includes a visit to Kozan Takai’s Museum, where Hokusai’s studio once operated, and ample free time to explore Obuse’s quiet streets.
What sets this tour apart is its detailed focus on Hokusai’s creative process and the chance to stand in his workspace. The guide shares insights, making the art come alive. With a moderate price of about $180 and nearly 7 hours of exploration, this offers good value for enthusiasts eager to understand Japan’s most iconic artist in his hometown. The reviews are perfect 5-star, praising the knowledgeable guide and the immersive experience. Ideal for those interested in art history or wanting a leisurely, culturally rich day.
Bottom line: If you love Japanese art or want to see Hokusai’s world up close, this tour offers depth and authenticity.
2. Heritage Town, Cuisine, Sake & Art: Explore Hokusai in Obuse
This shorter walking tour is perfect for travelers who want a taste of Obuse’s art, food, and culture in about 4.5 hours. Starting from Nagano, your guide takes you to Obuse station, then into the town’s charming streets. You’ll visit the Kozan Takai Memorial Museum, where Takai Kozan—Hokusai’s patron—lived. The museum’s hidden rooms and calligraphy make it fascinating. Next, you explore the Hokusai-kan Museum, home to Hokusai’s celebrated works.
Adding to the experience is a local sake and flavor tasting, as well as a stroll through the town’s historic streets, which illuminates Obuse’s role as a cultural hub. The guide’s local knowledge and careful pacing make this suitable for those who want a balanced mix of art, history, and local cuisine. With high ratings and a reasonable price (~$177), it’s a value-packed half-day trip.
Bottom line: For a well-rounded, culturally immersive experience focused on Hokusai, this tour hits all the right notes.
3. Nagano Cooking Tour: Make Oyaki & Stroll Historic Streets
If you love experiencing local traditions through food, this hands-on cooking tour is a joy. For about 2.5 hours, you’ll learn how to make oyaki, a regional dumpling filled with seasonal ingredients or sweet bean paste. Your cooking takes place in a traditional Japanese house with a sunken hearth called an irori, where you’ll enjoy your freshly made dumplings with soba tea. Afterward, the guide leads you on a walk through the quiet streets leading to Zenkoji Temple.
What makes this experience different is the focus on Nagano’s culinary culture—especially oyaki, which you learn to prepare yourself. It’s a fun, relaxed tour that emphasizes hands-on participation and local flavors. The reviews mention the guide’s flexibility and the delightful taste of the dumplings, with many commenting on how much they enjoyed the experience. Costing around $103 and lasting a bit over two hours, it’s a great choice for foodies and cultural explorers alike.
Bottom line: For a tasty, authentic look at Nagano’s local food scene combined with a peaceful walk, this tour delivers.
4. Hands-on History: Make Your Own Miso at a 240-Year-Old Brewery
This unique experience is perfect for those interested in craftsmanship and traditional food techniques. Near Zenkoji, Togakushi Shrine, and Nozawa Onsen, this tour combines a ramen lunch with a miso-making workshop at a 240-year-old brewery. You’ll learn traditional methods, then create your own 1kg batch of miso to ferment at home over several months.
What makes this tour special is the opportunity to see a living craft passed down through generations, plus the chance to make something tangible. The guide’s insights into miso’s role in Japanese cuisine add depth, and many reviewers appreciate the combination of food, culture, and hands-on activity. At about $165 for 5 hours, it’s a good value for those who want to connect with Japan’s culinary heritage in a memorable way.
Bottom line: If you’re curious about traditional Japanese food production and want a take-home memento, this workshop is a smart pick.
$165.33 per person
5. Jomon 2-Day Historical Spirits Tour
For the serious history buff willing to spend more time and money, the Jomon 2-Day Historical Spirits Tour offers an in-depth look at Japan’s earliest inhabitants. Starting in Chino City, you visit the Togariishi Jomon Archaeological Museum to view artifacts from the 10,000-year-old Jomon period. You’ll explore ancient pottery, ornaments, and learn how the Jomon people coexisted peacefully with nature. The tour includes a local farm lunch and a visit to the Akyu Ruins, where you experience the “Five Spirits of Jomon” concept that emphasizes living in harmony with nature.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on cultural and spiritual aspects of the Jomon era, along with the opportunity to create a personal connection with ancient history. It’s best suited for travelers with an interest in archaeology and anthropology, and the price reflects its comprehensive nature, at over $700 per person for two days. It’s a substantial commitment, but for those passionate about ancient Japan, the experience is unmatched.
Bottom line: For a deep dive into Japan’s prehistoric past and eco-friendly philosophies, this tour offers a rare, enriching journey.
$707.85 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your Nagano historical experience, consider your budget, available time, and specific interests. If you want a detailed art immersion, the Obuse Hokusai tour is your best bet. For food and culture lovers, the Oyaki cooking experience offers hands-on fun. History enthusiasts eager for a comprehensive look into Japan’s ancient past should consider the Jomon Spirits tour, but be prepared for the time and expense involved.
If you’re short on time but still want a quality cultural experience, the Heritage Town and Art Tour covers art, local foods, and scenic streets efficiently. And for those who love culinary craftsmanship, the Miso workshop provides a memorable, tasty souvenir.
Booking early is advised, especially for popular tours like the art-focused trips, as they tend to fill up quickly during peak seasons.