If you’re planning a trip to Nagano City, you won’t want to miss these five must-visit spots that bring together history, culture, nature, and fun. Surrounded by stunning mountains and renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the city offers something for every traveler. From stepping into the secret world of ninjas to exploring art, temples, Olympic history, and scenic shrines, these attractions show the best of what the city has to offer.
Togakure Ninja Museum
The Togakure Ninja Museum in Togakushi is a fascinating place where visitors can step into the secretive world of Japan’s ninjas. Dedicated to the legendary Togakure ninja clan, one of the oldest and most famous ninja schools in Japan, the museum showcases a history spanning over 800 years. Inside, you’ll find a wide range of ninja weapons, tools, and costumes, along with displays explaining how ninjas trained, fought, and gathered information.
One of the museum’s main attractions is the Ninja House, full of hidden doors, trick walls, and secret passageways. The next-door Ninja Trick Mansion adds another layer of excitement, where you can test your skills and even throw shuriken (ninja stars). Before leaving, the gift shop offers ninja-themed souvenirs and costumes, perfect for both kids and adults.
Surrounded by the quiet mountains and forests of Togakushi, the museum reveals Japan’s ninja traditions while showcasing the peaceful charm of rural life. History, martial arts, and interactive experiences come alive throughout the exhibits. You will definitely leave feeling inspired and deeply connected to both the culture and the landscape.
Nagano Prefectural Art Museum
The Nagano Prefectural Art Museum, located near the historic Zenkoji Temple, is one of the city’s most captivating cultural landmarks. Reopened in 2021 after a significant renovation, the museum’s modern design, open spaces, and beautiful mountain views create a calm and inspiring atmosphere. It’s a place where art, architecture, and nature blend seamlessly.
Inside, you can explore an impressive collection of Japanese and international artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The museum pays special attention to artists connected to the city, such as the renowned painter Higashiyama Kaii, whose gentle landscape paintings express Japan’s natural beauty and quiet strength. His works are showcased in the Higashiyama Kaii Gallery, a serene space filled with light.
Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, the Prefectural Art Museum offers a refreshing journey through creativity and the natural world. While visiting, the modern art, serene mountain views, and thoughtfully designed spaces invite you to pause and absorb your surroundings. As you walk through the galleries, you fully experience the calm beauty and distinctive charm that make Nagano unforgettable.
Zenkoji Temple
Zenkoji Temple is one of Japan’s most essential and beloved temples. Founded over 1,400 years ago, it welcomes visitors from all walks of life, offering a warm and inclusive atmosphere. People come here to pray, reflect, and experience a sense of peace in the bustling city.
The temple’s main hall is a beautiful wooden structure filled with history. Inside, it houses a hidden Buddha statue, said to be the first ever brought to Japan. While the original is never shown to the public, visitors can view a replica during certain ceremonies. A unique experience is walking through the Okaidan Meguri, a pitch-dark underground passage symbolizing a journey toward enlightenment.
The grounds also feature smaller shrines, peaceful gardens, and traditional shops selling local sweets and souvenirs. During festivals, colorful decorations, food stalls, and music bring the temple to life, allowing you to get a rare glimpse of Japan’s rich spiritual traditions.
Are you looking for great snacks from places like Nagano? Check out Sakuraco! Sakuraco delivers traditional Japanese snacks, teas, and sweets from local Japanese makers directly to your door so you can enjoy the latest treats from Japan!
Nagano Olympic Museum
If you love winter sports, the Nagano Olympic Museum is a must-visit! Surrounded by the majestic mountains, the museum brings the excitement and energy of the 1998 Winter Olympics to life.
Inside, you can explore memorabilia, medals, and equipment used by athletes from around the world, from skis and bobsleds to hockey gear. Interactive exhibits let you test your skills, like racing on a mini bobsled track, giving you a real sense of Olympic action. These hands-on experiences make the museum fun for sports fans and families alike.
The museum also highlights Nagano as a host city, showing how the Games shaped the community and environment. Visitors can learn about the dedication and teamwork of athletes, while scenic parks and mountain views outside offer a relaxing backdrop. With a café and gift shop for Olympic-themed treats and souvenirs, the Olympic Museum combines history, excitement, and interactive fun in one unforgettable experience.
Togakushi Shrine
Looking for photogenic places to visit in Nagano? Then, Togakushi Shrine, located in the mountains, is a must-visit. Famous for its towering cedar trees and serene forest paths, it’s an Instagram-worthy destination that captures both natural beauty and spiritual charm. The shrine is actually a complex of five separate shrines. Each shrine has its own history and atmosphere, connected by peaceful walking trails that go through the forest.
The long path along Cedar Avenue is terrific, with sunlight shining through the tall trees, creating a calm and almost mystical feeling. In winter, the path is even more magical, often covered in snow and surrounded by quiet, white forests. People have visited Togakushi Shrine for centuries to pray for success, safety, and good fortune. The shrine is also linked to Japanese legends, including a story about a goddess hiding in the mountains.
Visitors can stroll through the wooden halls, view the traditional torii gates, and admire the stone lanterns while taking in the fresh mountain air. The area is also famous for Togakushi soba noodles, handmade and served in local restaurants nearby. During festivals, the shrines come alive with music, food, and traditional ceremonies. If you’re looking for peaceful paths and natural beauty, Togakushi Shrine offers a memorable glimpse of Nagano’s landscapes.
Why should I visit Nagano City?
Nagano City is full of exciting places to explore for every type of traveler. Step into the secret world of ninjas at the Togakure Ninja Museum or enjoy art and nature at the Nagano Prefectural Art Museum. Find peace and history at Zenkoji Temple, or walk through the magical forests and shrines of Togakushi. Sports fans can feel the thrill of the 1998 Winter Olympics at the Nagano Olympic Museum.
With its mix of adventure, culture, nature, and fun experiences, the city promises a lively, memorable, and unforgettable visit for everyone. Do you have similar cities with exciting attractions in your country? Let us know in the comments below!
