Transportation

Nagano Prefecture offers a variety of transportation options to help visitors explore its cities, mountains, hot springs, and cultural sites. Whether you prefer fast trains, local buses, or driving through scenic routes, Nagano is well-connected and accessible.

Modern high-speed train traveling on elevated tracks through a scenic green landscape with houses and distant hills.

Shinkansen (Bullet Train)

The Hokuriku Shinkansen line connects Tokyo to Nagano City in approximately 1.5 hours, offering a fast, reliable, and comfortable travel option. This high-speed bullet train is ideal for long-distance travelers coming from Tokyo, Nagoya, or other major cities. Key stops along the way include Takasaki, Karuizawa, and Ueda before arriving in Nagano. The Shinkansen trains run frequently throughout the day, making it easy to plan flexible trips.

Tickets can be purchased through the JR East website or at train stations. Visitors holding a Japan Rail Pass can use the Shinkansen without additional fees on eligible sections. The convenience and speed of the Shinkansen make it the preferred option for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing time in Nagano.

A silver electric train with red stripes traveling through a rural landscape with green fields, overhead power lines, and hills in the background.

Local Trains

Nagano Prefecture is served by several local train lines that connect smaller cities, ski resorts, hot spring towns, and scenic spots. These trains are affordable and a great way to explore the region at a slower pace.

  • Nagano Dentetsu Line: Connects Nagano City with Yudanaka, the gateway to the famous Snow Monkey Park.

  • Oito Line: Runs between Matsumoto and Hakuba, serving major ski areas.

  • Iiyama Line: Connects Nagano to Iiyama, a city known for its traditional festivals and beautiful nature.

  • Shinano Railway Line: Runs from Nagano to Karuizawa, a popular resort town.

Fares vary depending on the stations traveled between; for example, a trip from Nagano to Yudanaka on the Nagano Dentetsu Line costs around 1,420 JPY.

White Highland Shuttle buses parked at a mountain bus station with snow-capped mountains and leafless trees in the background.

Bus Services

Buses in Nagano serve both intercity and local routes, providing vital access to mountainous areas, hot springs, and remote villages.

  • Highway buses connect Nagano with major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya.

  • Local buses run throughout the region, reaching areas like Togakushi, Kamikochi, and Nozawa Onsen.

  • During the winter season, special ski shuttle buses operate to popular resorts like Hakuba and Shiga Kogen.

Bus operators include Alpico Group and Nagano Dentetsu Bus, with timetables and route maps available on their websites. Because some local buses might not accept IC cards, passengers should prepare exact change or purchase tickets in advance. Bus drivers and station staff are generally friendly and can assist travelers with directions and ticketing.

Sign reading 'Car rental' with icon of a car and key, hanging indoors at an airport or transportation hub.

Rental Cars and Driving

Renting a car is a great way to explore Nagano’s rural and mountainous areas where public transportation may be limited. International visitors generally need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their home country driver’s license to rent a car in Japan.

Winter driving requires snow tires or chains due to heavy snowfall in many areas. Also, expressways often have tolls, and having an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card can make traveling smoother. Navigation apps like Google Maps and NAVITIME are helpful for planning routes in Nagano.

However, if you are considering driving, we recommend contacting local authorities for detailed information. Traffic laws in Japan are strictly enforced, and violations can lead to serious consequences.

While I haven't personally rented a car before and can't recommend specific companies, you can easily find reputable rental services online.

Five parked bicycles on a concrete sidewalk with trees and grass in the background.

Bicycles

Bicycles offer a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Nagano’s cities and countryside. Popular rental locations can be found in cities like Matsumoto, Iiyama, and near Lake Suwa. Cycling routes often pass through scenic landscapes, cultural sites, and quiet towns, providing a unique perspective.

Bike rentals are usually available at tourist information centers, hotels, and train stations. For short distances and sightseeing, bicycles are practical and enjoyable, especially during spring, summer, and autumn.

Empty airport waiting area with multiple chairs facing large glass windows showing a jet airplane in flight outside.

Air Access

Nagano Prefecture does not have a large international airport. However, Matsumoto Airport offers limited domestic flights to cities such as Sapporo and Fukuoka. For international travelers, the most common route is to fly into Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda Airports or Nagoya’s Chubu Centrair Airport, then take a train or highway bus to Nagano.

From these airports, travelers can catch the Hokuriku Shinkansen or highway buses for direct access to Nagano City and surrounding areas. For flight schedules and airport information, visit the Matsumoto Airport official website.

A green and white sign with the word 'Suica' and a penguin mascot.

Transportation IC Cards in Nagano

IC cards like Suica and Pasmo can be used on JR trains and some buses in Nagano. However, acceptance on local trains and buses may be limited, especially in rural areas. To avoid any inconvenience, please check with station staff or visit a local tourist information center for the latest details.