Nagano , Japan

Zenkoji Temple and Sake Tasting Private Tour from Nagano

Active

4h - 5h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour includes a visit to Zenkoji Temple, a historic temple that attracts worshippers from all over the world, as well as a visit to the temple to enjoy local sake and the optional local delicacy oyaki.
Since the Edo period (1603-1867), it has been said, “Even if you are far away, you must visit Zenkoji Temple at least once.” Many famous warlords and other famous warriors have visited the temple, and it continues to be a power spot for worshippers today.
Another attraction of this tour is that you can walk along the approach to the temple, which has a long history, and visit a sake brewery behind the approach to the temple.
You can also sign up for an optional experience to cook and eat “oyaki,” a local dish of Nagano Prefecture, in a traditional hearth.
Oyaki is made of wheat flour and buckwheat flour, with seasonal vegetables and sweet bean paste sandwiched inside the dough.
Those with wheat or buckwheat allergies are not eligible to apply, so please check in advance.

Available options

Goma Zazen and Oyaki

Goma Zazen and Oyaki: Visit Zenkoji Temple with a special ticket, take part in a Goma fire ritual, experience zazen , and enjoy making oyaki Pickup included

Private Goma Ceremony

Private Goma Ceremony: A special Goma fire ritual performed exclusively for the prayer requester by the head priest or deputy head priest. Pickup included

Zenkoji with Goma and Shakyo

Zenkoji with Goma and Shakyo: Visit Zenkoji Temple with a special admission ticket, take part in a Goma fire ritual, and experience sutra copying. Discover Pickup included

Goma Ritual and Oyaki Making

Pickup included

Goma Shakyo and Oyaki

Goma Shakyo and Oyaki: Visit Zenkoji Temple with a special ticket, join a Goma fire ritual, try shakyo, and enjoy making traditional oyaki dumplings Pickup included

Private Goma and Oyaki making

Private Goma and Oyaki making: A private Goma ritual by the head or deputy priest, followed by a hands-on oyaki making experience. Pickup included

Zenkoji with Goma and Zazen

Zenkoji with Goma and Zazen: Visit Zenkoji Temple with a special ticket, take part in a Goma fire ritual, and experience zazen meditation. Pickup included

Making Oyaki Experience

Making Oyaki Experience Pickup included

Zenkoji Temple and Sake Tasting Tour from Nagano

Pickup included

Participate in a Japanese Goma

Participate in a Japanese Goma: A fire ritual to pray for safety, health, and peace by offering to Fudō Myō-ō. The flames cleanse negative energy. Pickup included

What's included

Making Oyaki Experience Fee(Option)

National Licensed Guide in English, Spanish, Mandarin

Hotel Pickup

Admission Fee(Zenkoji Temple)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Zenkoji Temple is a very venerable temple that has been in existence for about 1,400 years.
It is one of the most famous temples in Japan that attracts many worshippers from all over the world, especially since it has a history of widely accepting people as a nondenominational temple that does not belong to any particular sect.
In the Edo period (1603-1867), so many people visited the temple that it was said, “Once in a lifetime, you must visit Zenkoji Temple. It has long been believed that if one visits Zenkoji even just once, he or she is guaranteed to live a life of paradise.

After visiting Zenkoji Temple, enjoy a sake brewery tour at a sake brewery built in the Meiji period. The factory tour hall offers a window into the sake brewing process, allowing visitors to learn about the steps involved in making sake.

The site of Zenkoji Temple's Nyorai-do Hall, which was relocated due to a fire, is now the site of the Zenkoji Temple's Nyorai-do Hall.
The Nakamise Street of Zenkoji Temple has been bustling with activity since the medieval period, when street vendors and freak shows began to open on the site where Zenkoji's Nyorai-do Hall was relocated due to a fire.
Recently, the number of stalls selling not only souvenirs and Nagano Prefecture's famous oyaki and dango, but also pudding and ice cream, which are popular among children, has increased, making the area a fun place to stroll for men and women of all ages.
Please stop at any store that catches your attention and enjoy!

*This is an optional tour
You can experience making oyaki, a specialty of Nagano Prefecture, in a traditional hearth.
Oyaki is made by mixing wheat flour and buckwheat flour with water or hot water, kneading it into a thin, flaky crust, and baking it with seasonal ingredients such as red bean paste and vegetables.
Oyaki made in the traditional way has a very gentle flavor, and is a local dish that you should definitely try when you come to Japan.

What's not included

Lunch

Personal Expenses

Souvenirs

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Those who are allergic to wheat or buckwheat cannot apply for the optional tour, so please check with us in advance. Please check with us in advance. We will guide you on the regular tour.

The itinerary might be changed due to weather condition or other reasons.

Important notes

Please show the ticket to the guide when you meet.

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.