Local Trains

Local trains in Nagano are a convenient and scenic way to explore the region’s towns, mountains, and countryside. These slower, regional trains connect major cities like Nagano, Matsumoto, and Iiyama to smaller, less-traveled destinations. Perfect for those who want to take their time and enjoy the natural beauty of Nagano.

Local Trains

Nagano Prefecture’s local train network is essential for regional travel, linking urban centers, ski resorts, hot springs, and natural attractions. These trains provide an economical and scenic way to explore Nagano’s diverse landscape.

Major Local Train Lines:

1. Nagano Dentetsu Line (Nagano → Yudanaka)

  • Official Website: Nagano Dentetsu (Nagaden)

  • Overview: A private railway line connecting Nagano City to Yudanaka, often used by travelers heading to the famous Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen).

  • Tip: Consider the Snow Monkey Pass, which offers 2-day unlimited train and bus rides plus entry to the park.

2. Ōito Line (Matsumoto → Hakuba and beyond)

  • Official Website: JR East

  • Overview: Operated by JR East, this scenic line runs from Matsumoto to Hakuba via Shinano-Ōmachi. It’s a popular route for skiers and hikers.

3. Iiyama Line (Nagano → Iiyama → Tokamachi)

  • Official Website: JR East

  • Overview: This rural JR East line travels through snowy countryside from Nagano to Iiyama and further to Tokamachi. Ideal for winter views and quiet towns.

4. Shinano Railway Line (Nagano → Karuizawa)

  • Official Website: Shinano Railway

  • Overview: A scenic local train route passing through historical cities like Ueda and Komoro, connecting Nagano with the resort town of Karuizawa.

🔗 These websites offer timetables, fare details, and station maps. Some routes also provide special passes for tourists, so it’s worth checking before your trip!

Line Route Sample Stations Approx. Fare (from starting point)
Nagano Dentetsu Line Nagano → Yudanaka Nagano, Zenkōjishita, Asano, Suzaka, Obuse, Yudanaka 1,420 JPY
Oito Line Matsumoto → Hakuba Matsumoto, Shinano-Ōmachi, Minami-Otari, Hakuba 1,090 JPY
Iiyama Line Nagano → Iiyama Nagano, Toyono, Takanosu, Iiyama 970 JPY
Shinano Railway Line Nagano → Karuizawa Nagano, Ueda, Komoro, Karuizawa 1,170 JPY

Timetables and Tickets

Train schedules are available on the Nagano Dentetsu Railway and JR East websites. Tickets can be purchased at stations or online.

Important Notes

Fares vary based on boarding and alighting stations. Station staff are usually friendly and ready to assist passengers with questions.

A modern train with a white and red exterior parked on a railway track beside yellow residential buildings with dark shingled roofs.
A red and white train traveling through a lush green forested landscape with a winding river in a valley.
A silver train with red stripes traveling on tracks through a green countryside with mountains in the background.

📝 Personal Note

Nagano is a mountainous region, and traveling by local trains often rewards you with breathtaking scenery. One of my favorite routes is the train from Nagano to Tokamachi — I highly recommend it. Sometimes, with no particular destination in mind, I hop on this train just to enjoy the peaceful 3-hour ride. Life in Nagano moves at a slower pace, and these train journeys add a quiet charm and unexpected color to your day.