Best Time to Visit Nagano
When is the best time to visit Nagano?
April to June and September to October are the best times to visit Nagano. These periods offer mild temperatures ranging from 15~25°C (59~77°F), accompanied by approximately 18 to 22 sunny days each month. Whether you are seeking traditional shrines, local cuisine, or simply the natural scenery, Nagano promises an unforgettable adventure during these months.Seasonal Highlights in Nagano
While April to June and September to October are prime, Nagano's allure extends throughout the year, catering to each traveler's preferences.See Snow Monkeys & Snowy Shrines in Winter (December to March)
In winter, especially from January to February, visitors can witness the rare sight of snow monkeys bathing in the hot springs at Jigokudani Monkey Park. Togakushi Shrine transforms into a winter wonderland, with snow covering the red torii gate and towering cedar trees standing guard in lines. In addition, Nagano's winter is renowned for its abundant and excellent powder snow, drawing numerous skiers yearly.
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Admire Cherry Blossom in Spring (April to May)
In April, Nagano’s pleasant spring warmth brings cherry blossoms everywhere. Matsumoto Castle and Hakuba Village are the most popular viewing spots, blending the pink ocean with Nagano's traditional architecture. In May with warmer weather, travelers can admire canola and peach blossoms.
Spring Cherry Blossoms, Nagano
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Escape from the Heat in Summer (June to Mid-September)
Nagano's summer offers a refreshing break from the heat, with temperatures up to 10°C (50°F) lower than Tokyo. In addition, abundant festivals are awaiting, such as the grand Suwa Lake Fireworks Festival and the BONBON Dance Festival in Matsumoto. While the plum rain season may bring occasional showers from late June to July, it also adds to the lush greenery and serene atmosphere of the region.
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Nagano in Summer
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Enjoy Red Leaves in Autumn (Mid-September to November)
Autumn in Nagano is a visual feast, with leaves turning various shades of red, orange, and yellow. Kamikochi is a scenic spot that showcases this natural beauty, with late October to early November being the prime time to see the vibrant foliage.
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Nagano in Autumn
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High Season & Shoulder Season in Nagano
High Season
Nagano's peak seasons attract the most tourists due to favorable weather, public holidays, and seasonal landscapes. Expect higher travel costs, crowded attractions, and potentially long queues during these times.Cherry Blossom Season (April)
As spring arrives in Nagano, cherry blossoms burst into a vibrant sea of pink, peaking in mid-April, accompanied by a pleasant warmth that fills the air.
In 2025, Nagano's cherry blossoms are expected to bloom from April 8th to 23rd, peaking April 12th to 18th.
Golden Week (Late April to Early May)
Following the cherry blossom season, Golden Week is an 11-day national holiday in Japan, consisting of several festivals. During this time, Nagano experiences a surge in tourism as visitors take advantage of the extended break to explore Nagano's natural and cultural attractions.
In 2025, Japan's Golden Week spans from April 26th to May 5th.
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Togakushi Shrine, Nagano
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Obon Festival (August)
During this Japanese festival honoring deceased family members, many Japanese take a long vacation of over a week to unwind, with Nagano a favored summer resort.
The Obon Festival in 2025 takes place from August 9th to 17th.
The New Year Holiday (Late December to Early January)
During the New Year Holiday (approximately December 25 to January 5), Nagano radiates a magnetic winter charm with heavy snow covering every corner, drawing tourists for pristine snowscapes and excellent ski slopes. Among the attractions, Togakushi Shrine and ski resorts can be the most crowded ones.
The New Year Holiday approximately runs from December 27th, 2025 to January 4th, 2026.
Shoulder Season
Shoulder seasons in Nagano refer to the periods just before or after the peak seasons. They often come with affordable travel options 30~60% cheaper than in peak season and short queues at attractions. The weather remains pleasant without excessively cold or hot temperatures.