At Shiga-Adventures, we offer cultural tours that provide an immersive experience in Nagano's rich cultural heritage. Our knowledgeable guides take you on a journey to explore the area's traditional temples, shrines, and festivals, providing fascinating insights into the region's history and customs. We pride ourselves on offering personalized tours that cater to your specific interests, ensuring that you have a unique and authentic cultural experience. Whether you're interested in learning about Japanese art, cuisine, or history, our cultural tours offer a window into the rich tapestry of Nagano's vibrant culture. Join us on a cultural journey that you'll never forget!
Our amazing region boasts a wealth of natural beauty, fascinating history and culture, and exciting festivals throughout the year. From the cherry blossoms and fireflies to the ancient samurai history and culture, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Obuse, Nagano City, Togakushi, Matsumoto, Shiga Kogen, Shibu Onsen, and Yudanaka.
Nature lovers will be thrilled by the stunning landscapes of the Shiga Kogen area. This mountainous region is home to some of the most beautiful natural sights in Japan, including serene forests, sparkling lakes, and magnificent waterfalls. The area is particularly famous for its cherry blossom season in the spring, when the mountain sides are painted in a vibrant pink hue.
Another must-see natural wonder in the area is the firefly season, which occurs in June and July. Visitors can witness thousands of these beautiful insects lighting up the night sky in a breathtaking display of nature's beauty.
For those interested in history and culture, the region offers a fascinating look at the samurai era of Japan. Matsumoto Castle is a must-visit landmark, as it's one of the oldest and most well-preserved castles in the country. The Togakushi Shrine is also a must-visit, as it's believed to be the birthplace of the famous ninja warrior art form.
The region also hosts a number of exciting festivals throughout the year, including the Obuse Chestnut Festival in the fall and the Nagano Winter Festival, which showcases the area's stunning winter landscapes.
Finally, for those looking to relax and unwind, the Shibu Onsen and Yudanaka areas offer the perfect retreat. These charming hot spring towns are renowned for their healing waters and relaxing atmosphere, making them the ideal place to recharge after a day of exploring the region's many attractions.
Nagano
Nagano City is steeped in rich history and culture, with many historical sites and landmarks waiting to be explored. Take a stroll through the historic streets of Zenkoji Temple, one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Japan, and soak in the spiritual ambiance. Visit the Nagano City Museum to learn about the region's history, or head to Matsushiro Castle and experience the samurai era up close. Whether you're a history buff or just looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, our guided tours of Nagano City's historical sites are a must-do experience.
Obuse
At Shiga-Adventures, we offer a unique cultural experience in the charming town of Obuse. Obuse is famous for its connection to the famous Japanese painter, Hokusai, and its stunning traditional architecture. Our knowledgeable guides will take you on a journey through the town, showing you the historic temples, shrines, and museums, and giving you an insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region. You'll have the chance to taste the local cuisine, learn about the traditional crafts, and even try your hand at painting in the style of Hokusai himself. Don't miss this unforgettable opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Obuse.
Matsumoto
Matsumoto is a city in Nagano that is rich in history and culture. It is home to one of Japan's most famous and beautiful castles, Matsumoto Castle, which dates back to the 16th century and is a designated national treasure. In addition to the castle, there are also several museums and art galleries that showcase the city's cultural heritage, such as the Matsumoto City Museum of Art and the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum. Visitors can also explore the traditional streetscape of Nakamachi, which is lined with old merchant houses and shops. Our knowledgeable guides at Shiga-Adventures can provide you with a unique and insightful cultural experience in Matsumoto that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the city's rich history and traditions.
Togakushi
At Shiga-Adventures, we offer a unique cultural experience in the Togakushi area, where visitors can immerse themselves in the ancient traditions and history of Japan. Our experienced guides will take you on a journey through the stunning Togakushi forests to discover hidden shrines, ancient temples, and traditional ninja training grounds. Explore the historic Togakushi Shrine, one of the most sacred places in Japan, or witness a traditional Shinto ritual performed by the local priests. The Togakushi area is also famous for its delicious soba noodles, and our guides will take you to the best local restaurants to sample this regional delicacy. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or culinary delights, our Togakushi cultural experience has something for everyone.
Festivals
- Iiyama Snow Festival
early February
This festival in Iiyama City features snow sculptures, food stalls, and other winter activities. - Kanbayashi ‘Sendayaki’ (Fire Festival)
February 4th
This unique festival in Nagano involves a giant bonfire built on a frozen river, with participants wearing traditional clothing and throwing mochi (rice cakes) into the fire as an offering to the gods. - Tomyo Lantern Festival Tour - Zenkoji
early February
This festival at Zenkoji Temple in Nagano involves the lighting of thousands of lanterns, creating a beautiful atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. - Tokimata Hastuuma Hadaka Matsuri
March 2
This wild and lively festival involves participants running through the streets in nothing but loincloths, carrying giant torches and shouting traditional chants. - Ueda Sanada Festival
last Saturday of April
This festival honors the Sanada clan, a prominent family in Japanese history. The festival features a grand procession of participants in traditional samurai attire, as well as music and dance performances. - Matsumoto Grand Taiko Festival
Late July 2023
The Grand Taiko Festival in Matsumoto City features performances by taiko drum groups from around Japan, as well as a parade and other festivities. - Ina Matsuri
early August
This festival in Ina City features a grand procession of portable shrines and other traditional festivities. - Lake Suwa fireworks
August 15th
The annual fireworks display over Lake Suwa is a popular summer event, attracting visitors from around the region. The colorful display is a stunning sight against the backdrop of the lake and surrounding mountains. - Okaya Taiko Festival Near Suwa
mid-August
This festival is all about traditional Japanese drumming, with performances by local taiko groups and workshops for visitors to try their hand at playing the drums. - Zenko-ji Temple Summer ‘Ennichi’
mid-August
During the Ennichi festival at Zenkoji Temple, visitors can enjoy a variety of street food and carnival games, as well as special prayers and ceremonies at the temple. - NOZAWA LANTERN FESTIVAL
Sep 8th - Sep 9th 2023
The Nozawa Lantern Festival is a colorful and lively celebration held in the mountain village of Nozawa Onsen. Visitors can enjoy traditional food and drink, music and dance performances, and a grand procession of locals carrying lanterns. - O-Fune Festival In Nagano (Azumino?)
Sep 27
The O-Fune Festival in Azumino City celebrates the harvest of the region's rice crop, with a variety of traditional performances and demonstrations, as well as boat races and other water-related events. - Matsushiro Autumn Sanada Clan Jumangoku Festival
second weekend of October
This festival in Matsumoto City celebrates the legacy of the Sanada clan, with a variety of performances and demonstrations of traditional arts and crafts. - Nagano Ebisukō Fireworks Festival
Late November 2023
The Ebisukō Fireworks Festival in Nagano is a spectacular display of pyrotechnics, lighting up the night sky with vibrant colors and patterns. - Zenko-ji Illumination Festival
December
Matsumoto too: During the Illumination Festival at Zenkoji Temple, the temple grounds are decorated with thousands of lights, creating a magical and festive atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. - Gokaicho
Nagano Zenkoji 2026
Gokaicho is a major Buddhist event that takes place every seven years at Zenkoji Temple in Nagano, Japan. During the festival, the temple's main image, a hidden Buddha statue called the "Ikko Sanzon Amida Nyorai" is revealed to the public for just a few weeks. Visitors from all over Japan come to see the statue and take part in various ceremonies and rituals held during the festival. The Gokaicho is considered one of the most important religious events in Japan and has been held for over 1,300 years. The next Gokaicho festival is scheduled for 2026. - The Onbashira Festival
Next 2029 Suwa
The Onbashira Festival in Suwa is a centuries-old tradition involving the transporting of massive logs down from the mountains and through the streets of the city. The festival takes place only once every six years and is a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Other
Genji Firefly
The Genji firefly viewing in Shiga Kogen is a popular summer event in Nagano, Japan. It takes place between mid-June and mid-July, when thousands of fireflies light up the night sky with their mesmerizing glow. The fireflies are of the Genji species, which are known for their elegant and delicate appearance. Visitors can take a guided tour through the forested areas of Shiga Kogen to see these beautiful insects in their natural habitat. The tour is a peaceful and magical experience, offering a chance to connect with nature and witness one of Japan's most captivating natural phenomena.
Cherry Blossom season
Cherry blossom season, also known as "Sakura" season, is one of the most popular times to visit Japan. This time of year, usually from late March to early May, cherry trees throughout the country burst into bloom, creating a stunning display of pink and white flowers.
Many people in Japan celebrate the arrival of cherry blossom season by having picnics and parties under the trees, a tradition called "hanami". It's a time to enjoy the beauty of nature, spend time with friends and family, and appreciate the fleeting nature of life.
Visitors to Japan during cherry blossom season can participate in hanami by visiting popular cherry blossom viewing spots like parks, gardens, and temples. Some of the most famous spots include Tokyo's Ueno Park, Kyoto's Philosopher's Path, and Osaka Castle Park.
In addition to enjoying the blossoms during the day, some locations also have illuminated night-time viewing events, called "yozakura". These events provide a unique and magical experience, as the blossoms are lit up against the dark sky.
Overall, cherry blossom season is a truly special time in Japan, and a must-see for anyone visiting the country during the spring.
Additional info
Duration:
- Half day - 2-3h
- Full day - 4-5h
Prices:
- Half day - ¥10000/person
- Full day - ¥15000/person
What's included
- Guide
- Lunch
- Transport
What to bring:
- Appropriate clothing
What to expect:
Our culture tours offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local customs and traditions of Japan. You can expect to visit historical sites, learn about traditional arts and crafts, taste local cuisine, and interact with friendly locals who are passionate about sharing their culture with you. Our experienced guides will provide insightful commentary and help you gain a deeper understanding of the fascinating history and customs of the region.
