📝 Personal Note

This guide focuses on the natural beauty of Nagano — its valleys, lakes, waterfalls, and serene parks. In the first part, I share the places I’ve personally visited and highly recommend for peaceful nature appreciation and scenic views.

The second part includes other noteworthy natural spots I haven’t yet explored but believe are worth visiting based on careful research and local tips.

By making this distinction, I hope to offer you a balanced mix of trusted experiences and new discoveries to enrich your time in Nagano.

A man standing on a tree stump in a lake with mountains and trees in the background, wearing black clothing.

Nature & Parks – My Experience

In this section, I share my personal favorite natural spots without categorizing them. These are the places that left the strongest impression on me and that I truly enjoyed visiting

Four monkeys in a hot spring with rocky surroundings, and a person taking a photo.

🐒 Snow Monkey Park

A unique place where you can watch wild Japanese macaques bathe in natural hot springs, especially magical in winter.

A traditional Japanese temple gate surrounded by tall trees in a forest, with two visitors walking through the entrance.

🏞️ Togakushi

A sacred forested area with towering cedar trees, ancient shrines, and a peaceful atmosphere. Perfect for quiet walks and spiritual reflection.

A lakeside scene with people sitting on blankets and a white dog, overlooking a calm lake with mountains in the background.

🌊 Lake Nojiri (Nojiriko)

A tranquil lakeside setting ideal for relaxing, canoeing, or just enjoying views of Mt. Myoko in the distance.

Crowd of people crossing a suspension bridge in a lush, green mountain landscape on a sunny day.

🏔️ Kamikochi

One of the most stunning alpine valleys in Japan, surrounded by dramatic peaks and accessible walking trails. A paradise for nature lovers.

A lake with cherry blossom trees along the shoreline and mountains in the background.

🌸 Garyu Park (Suzaka)

Especially beautiful during cherry blossom season, this park is great for a calm stroll, a picnic, or just enjoying seasonal colors.

Nature & Parks - Recommendations

In the following sections, I list other noteworthy nature spots organized by categories. These include places I haven’t visited yet or haven’t chosen as personal favorites, but that are still worth exploring based on research and local insights.

Nagano is home to some of Japan’s most breathtaking national parks and highland areas. From the majestic peaks of the Japanese Alps to serene mountain plateaus, these regions offer scenic hikes, alpine flora, and panoramic views all year round.

🌿 Valleys & Nature Spots in Nagano

Explore quiet mountain valleys, hidden trails, and remote villages where nature remains untouched. These areas are perfect for travelers seeking peace, local culture, and authentic countryside experiences.

🌸 Parks & Gardens in Nagano

Enjoy seasonal beauty in Nagano’s well-kept gardens and historical parks. From spring cherry blossoms to autumn foliage, these spots provide tranquil settings for a relaxing stroll or a peaceful picnic.

💧 Lakes & Waterfalls in Nagano

Nagano’s lakes and waterfalls are ideal for nature lovers. Whether you're canoeing on a calm lake or hiking to a cascading waterfall, these locations showcase the region’s pure natural charm.

🐾 Wildlife & Natural Reserves in Nagano

Meet Nagano’s wild side in its dedicated wildlife areas and reserves. From snow monkeys bathing in hot springs to protected forests full of native species, these destinations offer a rare look into Japan’s natural ecosystem.

Traditional Japanese temple gate with tiled roof, surrounded by rocky terrain and green trees, mountain with clouds in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

🌋 Onioshidashi Park

A dramatic volcanic landscape formed by Mount Asama's eruption in 1783. Lava rock formations cover the park, offering a surreal atmosphere and scenic walking paths just outside of Nagano.

Cherry blossom trees in full bloom next to a stone wall, with a person standing nearby taking a photo.

🏯 Ueda Castle Park

This historical park combines cherry blossoms, samurai history, and peaceful walking trails around the remains of Ueda Castle.

A flowing mountain river with rocks and pebbles on its banks, surrounded by brown leafless trees and snow patches on the slopes.

🌲 Akiyamago

A remote mountain valley on the Nagano–Niigata border, known for its untouched landscapes, traditional villages, and riverside outdoor hot springs. A peaceful escape into authentic rural Japan.

Waterfall flowing over rocks among green trees in a natural outdoor setting.

💦 Kaminari Falls

A picturesque waterfall tucked away in a forested area. The name means “Thunder Falls,” and the sound of the rushing water lives up to it. A peaceful spot for short hikes and quiet moments in nature.

A brown and black teddy bear figure and a real dog lying on a wooden platform inside a room with a window and plain walls, decorated with green branches and bamboo leaves.

🐾 Chausuyama Zoo

A charming, family-friendly zoo set in a scenic hillside park. It features a variety of animals, open green spaces, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for a half-day visit.