Nagano , Japan

Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour

Active

(32 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Come to Nagano and join this experience to taste one of the best Sake in Japan. The Sake maker we’ll explore has over 300 years history and you will taste the differences between Sakes of the highest quality, unfiltered, unpasteurized, and many other seasonable Sakes. Explore the streets of Nagano and the Zenkoji Temple area, then make your way back to Nagano Station.

- Taste more than 5 local Sakes including Nagano’s plum wine with nibbles like soy source beans and some Japanese pickles.
- Taste 3 different Amazake(non alcoholic sweet drink)
- You can have Nagano’s miso soup
- Admission free to visit old sake factory
- Explore Nagano’s laid back area around Zenkoji temple to visit some local shops
- Learn and practice authentic Japanese eating style and discover other parts of Nagano
- Connect with local business owners to learn the history and local culture.

Available options

Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour

What's included

English-speaking guide

Nibbles like soy source beans

Amazake(sweet no alcoholic drink)

Miso soup

Sake tasting

Detailed itinerary

Meet with your guide in front of Starbucks Midori Nagano station. We will start to walk to Zenko-ji temple. It takes about 20min to get there, but you won't feel it is long because it is nice to see the local area to look around. If you already have seen Zenko-ji temple or you are not interested in seeing it, your guide can take you to the local shops and local shrine around Zenko-ji temple.

Stop 2

Arrive at Zenko-ji Temple. Your guide will introduce you not only Zenko-ji temple but also Nagano’s laid back area to visit some local shops around Zenkoji temple.

Arrive at Sake tasting place. You can try to taste variety of Sake here with nibbles like soy source beans and some Japanese pickles. Miso is one of the Nagano specialities and you can have Nagano’s miso soup as well.

Visit the old sake factory. You can also visit old sake factory(it is not used now)which is built over 120 years ago to understand the process of making sake.

After Sake tasting, we will go back to Nagano station(20 min by walking). The duration of this tour is about 2 hours. The tour concludes at the Nagano station but If you would like to explore different places like restaurants after this tour, you can say good bye to your guide at around Zenkoji temple area, where is easy to get back to Nagano station by yourself

What's not included

Extra drinks and food (available to purchase)

Transportation fee to meeting point

There are no mandatory in-destination costs.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

12 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

20 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Walking shoes are recommended

Minimum alcahol drinking age is 20 years. So we offer another drink for under 20

In case of late arrival, the tour cannot be extended.

o8Experience is a locally based tour company offering private and small-group experiences across Nagano and surrounding regions. From food and culture to nature and history, we create meaningful journeys tailored to curious travelers. Visit o8Experience to discover more.

Meeting point

Your guide will meet you at infront of Starbucks Nagano station

About Nagano

Nagano, the capital of Nagano Prefecture, is a city rich in history and natural beauty. Known for its role in the 1998 Winter Olympics, Nagano offers a blend of traditional Japanese culture, stunning mountain landscapes, and world-class ski resorts. The city is a gateway to some of Japan's most famous hot springs and ancient temples.

Top Attractions

Zenko-ji Temple

Zenko-ji is one of Japan's most important Buddhist temples, dating back to the 7th century. It is a significant pilgrimage site and a symbol of Nagano's spiritual heritage.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani

The Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani are a famous attraction, known for their unique behavior of bathing in hot springs during the winter months.

Nature Half day to full day ¥800 (adults) or ¥400 (children)

Nagano Olympic Museum

This museum commemorates the 1998 Winter Olympics held in Nagano. It features exhibits on the history of the Olympics, the events held in Nagano, and the athletes who participated.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥500 (adults) or ¥200 (children)

Togakushi Shrine

Togakushi Shrine is a complex of three shrines dedicated to the Shinto goddess of archery. It is a popular destination for both spiritual and cultural tourism.

Religious Half day Free (donations appreciated)

Shiga Kogen

Shiga Kogen is one of Japan's largest and most popular ski resorts, known for its extensive ski runs, modern facilities, and beautiful mountain scenery.

Adventure Full day or overnight ¥4,000 - ¥6,000 (lift tickets)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Soba Noodles

Soba noodles are made from buckwheat flour and are a staple of Nagano's cuisine. They can be served hot or cold, with various toppings and dipping sauces.

Dish Vegetarian (if no meat or fish toppings are added)

Oyaki

Oyaki are dumplings filled with various ingredients, such as vegetables, meat, or cheese. They are a popular snack in Nagano and are often served with meals.

Dish Vegetarian options available

Sake

Nagano is known for its high-quality sake, made from locally grown rice. The region has numerous sake breweries, offering a variety of flavors and styles.

Drink Contains alcohol

Onsen Ryori

Onsen Ryori is a type of cuisine served in hot spring resorts. It typically consists of dishes made with local ingredients, such as vegetables, fish, and tofu, cooked in the hot spring water.

Dish Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Skiing Snowboarding Hiking Mountain biking Hot air ballooning Hot spring bathing Temple visiting Shopping

Best Time to Visit

Winter (December to February)

Winter is the peak season for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The city hosts numerous winter festivals and events. Expect heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.

-2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F) 28°F to 41°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Nagano is a generally safe destination for travelers. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is uncommon. However, travelers should still take precautions to protect their belongings and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Use reputable taxis and tour services.

Getting there

By air

Nagano Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from the city center
Chubu Centrair International Airport • 200 km (124 miles) from the city center

By train

Nagano Station

By bus

Nagano Station Bus Terminal, Zenko-ji Temple Bus Stop

Getting around

Public transport

The city bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Nagano, covering most areas of the city and connecting to major attractions. Buses are frequent and affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Nagano Togakushi Shiga Kogen

Day trips

Shiga Kogen

50 km (31 miles) from Nagano • Full day or overnight

Shiga Kogen is one of Japan's largest and most popular ski resorts, offering a wide range of winter and summer activities. It is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Togakushi

20 km (12 miles) from Nagano • Half day

Togakushi is a rural area known for its ancient shrines, soba noodles, and hiking trails. It is a popular destination for both spiritual and cultural tourism.

Jigokudani Monkey Park

60 km (37 miles) from Nagano • Half day to full day

Jigokudani Monkey Park is a popular destination for observing wild Japanese macaques, known as snow monkeys, in their natural habitat. The park is especially famous for the monkeys' unique behavior of bathing in hot springs during the winter months.

Festivals

Nagano Winter Festival • February Nagano Summer Festival • August Togakushi Fire Festival • February 3rd

Pro tips

Visit Zenko-ji Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the temple's serene atmosphere.
Try Togakushi's famous soba noodles at a local restaurant, such as Soba Koenji or Soba Nagano.
Take a day trip to Shiga Kogen for skiing, snowboarding, or hiking, depending on the season.
Experience the Nagano Winter Festival in February for a unique and memorable cultural event.
Visit the Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani in winter to see the monkeys bathing in the hot springs.