9 things to do in Nagano in January

If you’re planning to go sightseeing, you probably want to include things in your itinerary that you can only see or experience during that specific time of year. In this article, we’ll introduce the situation, events, and recommended spots for January in Nagano Prefecture for those looking for unique experiences.

About Nagano in January

Nagano Prefecture is famous for its cold winters, but it is precisely this chilly season that creates beautiful scenery, hot springs, and a plethora of activities. Especially in January, the fantastic landscapes created by snow and ice make it the perfect time to enjoy sightseeing and hot springs.

Winter Scenic Spots

Nagano’s winter offers beautiful landscapes created by snow and ice. Here are some particularly recommended scenic spots for January.

“Jigokudani Yaen-Koen”

“Jigokudani Yaen-Koen” is a natural park located in Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture, where you can see Japanese macaques bathing in hot springs during the winter. The sight of monkeys soaking in hot springs to escape the cold is a unique spectacle you won’t find elsewhere. You can capture this extraordinary scene with the snow-covered mountains in the background.

“Lake Suwa”

“Lake Suwa” is located in central Nagano Prefecture, and in winter, the lake surface freezes, allowing visitors to walk or skate on it. You can also enjoy the beautiful snow-capped mountains from the lakeshore, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts. Spending time in the crisp winter air is a special experience.

“Kera-Ike Ice Skating Rink” in “Karuizawa Hoshino Area”

The “Kera-Ike Ice Skating Rink” in Karuizawa Town offers a unique experience of ice skating on natural ice while enjoying views of Mount Asama. January is the perfect time to skate on the well-frozen ice. Enjoy skating in nature while soaking in the pleasant winter scenery.

Recommended Tourist Spots

Nagano Prefecture has many tourist spots where you can feel the culture and history. Here are some places with winter-specific charm.

“Matsumoto Castle”

“Matsumoto Castle” is a national treasure located in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, and in January, it hosts the “Matsumoto Castle Ice Sculpture Festival.” The magical scenery created by ice sculptures and the national treasure castle is a must-see. The night illumination is also beautiful, making it perfect for photography.

“Narai-juku”

“Narai-juku” is a post town that retains the atmosphere of the Edo period, and its snowy winter landscape enhances its charm. You can stroll through the historic buildings and streets while feeling the winter in Nagano. You can also enjoy traditional crafts and local food culture.

“Shibu Onsen”

“Shibu Onsen” is a historic hot spring area in Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture, where you can enjoy the “Kyu-Tou Meguri” (Nine Hot Spring Tour) with nine different public baths. In winter, you can enjoy the hot springs along with the snowy scenery, warming both your body and soul.

Recommended Hot Spring Inns

Enjoy a relaxing time in Nagano’s hot spring inns, escaping the winter cold. Here are some particularly recommended hot spring inns.

“Nozawa Onsen Hotel”

“Nozawa Onsen Hotel” is a long-established inn that has been in operation since the Taisho period, where you can enjoy “yukimi-buro” (snow-viewing bath) in winter. The hot springs use the inn’s own source and are all free-flowing, warming your body thoroughly after being out in the cold. It’s also close to ski resorts, allowing you to enjoy both winter sports and hot springs.

“Kanaguya”

“Kanaguya,” a registered tangible cultural property located in “Shibu Onsen,” offers the “Hachiyu Meguri” (Eight Hot Spring Tour). You can enjoy various Western-style hot springs while appreciating the snowy scenery. The charm of a traditional Japanese inn also adds to the experience.

“Shichimi Onsen Koyokan”

Located in the Hokushinano area, “Shichimi Onsen Koyokan” is a hot spring inn known for its free-flowing cloudy hot springs. The water color changes to emerald green or milky white and is beautiful, and in winter, you can enjoy it along with the snowy scenery. Day-use bathing is also available, making it easy to drop by.