Nagano

Watching wild snow monkeys soak in a steaming hot spring is one of Japan’s most magical winter sights. This complete first-timer’s guide to Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano covers how to get there step by step from Tokyo, the best season and time of day to visit, park rules and photography tips, where to stay in the historic Yudanaka and Shibu onsen towns, what to eat, a two-day itinerary, full costs in yen and US dollars, onsen bathing etiquette, and a detailed FAQ — everything you need to plan an unforgettable snow monkey trip.

The Kiso Valley in Nagano Prefecture is home to the best-preserved post towns of the old Nakasendo highway, and the gentle 8-kilometer walk between Magome and Tsumago is one of the most beginner-friendly rural experiences in Japan. This complete first-timer’s guide covers what the Nakasendo and Kiso Valley are, the post towns of Magome, Tsumago and Narai, a step-by-step description of the trail, where to stay in a minshuku or ryokan, what to eat from gohei-mochi to soba, how to get there from Nagoya and Tokyo, the handy luggage forwarding service, the best seasons, costs in yen and US dollars, photography and packing tips, and a detailed FAQ. Everything you need to walk into Japan’s Edo-era past.

Kamikochi in Nagano Prefecture is Japan’s most breathtaking alpine valley — a car-free wilderness of crystal rivers, snow-capped peaks, and ancient forest. This complete guide covers how to get there, the best trails for all levels, top attractions including Kappabashi Bridge and Taisho Pond, where to stay from the Imperial Hotel to mountain huts, what to eat, and practical tips for every season. Whether you’re a day-tripper or a serious alpinist, Kamikochi is one of Japan’s unmissable natural wonders.

Complete travel guide to Matsumoto and the Japanese Alps: exploring Japan’s oldest original castle, hiking the glacial valley of Kamikochi, visiting UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go’s snow-country farmhouses, and discovering the Norikura volcanic plateau. Prices in yen and USD included.