Hotels in Nagano

Serenity in the Shadows of Snow-Capped Peaks: Discover Nagano's Hidden Treasures

Nestled in the heart of Japan’s mountainous terrain, Nagano, Nagano Prefecture, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Known for its rejuvenating hot springs, like those in nearby Nozawa Onsen, and stunning temples, this city offers a serene escape. Explore the majestic Japanese Alps, indulge in outdoor adventures year-round, and savor local delicacies. With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, Nagano invites travelers to experience the tranquility of its landscapes and the warmth of its traditions, making it an unforgettable destination in central Japan. For the best hotel rates in Nagano and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Nagano

Some of the best places to stay in Nagano are Kurita, Madarao Mountain Resort and Asama Onsen. Nagano offers unique experiences for travelers, with Kurita known for its serene atmosphere, Madarao Mountain Resort for skiing and outdoor activities, and Asama Onsen for relaxing hot springs. Accommodations range from luxury hotels with stunning views to cozy inns, with room rates generally reflecting the season and amenities. For first-time visitors, Madarao Mountain Resort is ideal, providing a blend of adventure and relaxation in a picturesque setting. Enjoy your stay in this beautiful region of Japan! These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Nagano:

1. KuritaOpens in a new window: Ideal for ski enthusiasts, Kurita boasts a rich cultural heritage with nearby attractions like Zenko-ji Temple and the M-Wave Olympic Memorial Arena. The area is also close to the stunning Shiga Kogen Ski Area for winter sports lovers. For accommodations, consider Hotel de La Neige by Onko ChishinOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel offering a unique boutique experience and convenient access to ski shuttles. Another option is HOSHINOYA KaruizawaOpens in a new window, a 5-star lodge featuring natural hot springs and adventure activities nearby. Lastly, Karuizawa Marriott HotelOpens in a new window provides a blend of luxury and business amenities, complete with onsite hot springs to unwind after a day on the slopes.
2. Madarao Mountain ResortOpens in a new window: This destination is a paradise for skiing and adventure lovers, with attractions like Madarao Kogen Ski Resort and Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort nearby. The area offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and biking. For lodging, The Ridge Apartments NozawaOpens in a new window is a well-rated 4-star hotel with diverse entertainment options and sports facilities. Alternatively, Nozawa Grand HotelOpens in a new window, a traditional ryokan, offers a rich hot spring experience with both indoor and outdoor options. Another choice is Nojiriko Hotel El BoscoOpens in a new window, which features various dining options and recreational activities, ensuring a delightful stay.
3. Asama OnsenOpens in a new window: Asama Onsen is known for its cultural significance and wellness offerings, with attractions like Matsumoto Castle and the serene Asama Hot Spring. The area combines historical exploration with relaxation. For accommodations, Matsumoto Marunouchi HotelOpens in a new window is a spacious 4-star hotel with dining options and nearby cultural sites. Hoshino Resorts KAI MatsumotoOpens in a new window is a delightful ryokan that emphasizes a hot spring and spa experience, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation. Lastly, La Terra NaganoOpens in a new window offers a unique guesthouse experience with outdoor amenities and adventure activities, perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility.

What to do in Nagano

Three days in Nagano offer travelers the chance to explore stunning mountains, relax in soothing hot springs, and enjoy outdoor adventures like skiing and hiking. The region’s rich natural beauty and diverse activities make it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in central Japan. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Nagano:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the Yudanaka Hot Spring, where you can relax in the soothing, mineral-rich waters. After rejuvenating, take a leisurely stroll to the Tsuboi Weeping Cherry Tree, which offers breathtaking views, especially during cherry blossom season. Conclude your day by visiting the nearby Japanese Cherry Tree, a perfect spot for capturing beautiful photographs and enjoying the serene atmosphere.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Lake Nojiri, where you can enjoy stunning views and partake in various water activities. Afterward, make your way to Mount Myoko for some hiking; the trails offer spectacular vistas and opportunities to immerse yourself in nature. End the day with a visit to the Naena Waterfall, a picturesque spot that's perfect for a peaceful retreat or a scenic picnic.
• Day 3: Start your morning in Shibu, a quaint area known for its hot springs and charming streets. Next, make your way to the Hokusai Museum, where you can explore the works of the famous ukiyo-e artist and learn about his impact on Japanese art. Wrap up your day at Gansho-in Temple, a tranquil site that invites reflection and appreciation of traditional Japanese architecture and gardens.

5 tips to find a great Nagano hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Nagano is during June, July, and September, when hotel rates tend to be lower. International travelers should aim to book their flights at least one month in advance to secure better prices. For those on a budget, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the key attractions, such as the famous hotsprings and serene temples, making it a great value for money experience.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're on the hunt for last-minute deals to Nagano, you're in luck! Hotels.com offers a dedicated DealsOpens in a new window and Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section where you may discover great rates on hotels with good availability. Look for refundable options to ensure flexibility in your travel plans. To keep up with potential discounts, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, allowing you to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions tailored just for Nagano.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate based on various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Nagano.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Nagano is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like trains and buses, or even walk, to explore the area while keeping costs more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Nagano. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Nagano

Here are a few popular dishes in Nagano, Nagano Prefecture, Japan:

• Soba Noodles: A beloved staple in Nagano, these buckwheat noodles are often served cold with a dipping sauce or hot in a savory broth. Local soba shops pride themselves on using freshly milled buckwheat, and you might even get to watch the chefs hand-rolling the noodles. Pair your soba with seasonal toppings like tempura or mountain vegetables for a truly authentic experience.
• Hida Beef: Renowned for its marbled texture and rich flavor, Hida beef can be enjoyed in various forms, from grilled steak to shabu-shabu. In Nagano, you can savor this premium beef at specialty restaurants where it's often served with local vegetables, enhancing the dish’s freshness and flavor. The communal style of dining, often enjoyed with friends and family, adds to the culinary experience.

Best time to go to Nagano

Nagano experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 28.4°F (-2.0°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.9°F (23.3°C). July tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Nagano are January, February, and December, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. In contrast, June, September, and November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.