15 days in Nagano Itinerary

Near the confluence of the Chikuma and Sai rivers, Nagano combines historic sites with nearby forested alps dotted with shrines.

Change things up with these side-trips from Nagano: Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort (in Nozawaonsen-mura), Yamanouchi-machi (Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park & Shigakogen Sun Valley Ski Area) and Kusatsu-machi (Yubatake & Onsen Resorts). There's lots more to do: contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Zenko-ji Temple, admire the sheer force of Shiraito Falls, browse the different shops at Karuizawa prince shopping plaza, and hit the slopes at Shiga Kogen.

To find other places to visit, reviews, and tourist information, read our Nagano trip itinerary builder site .

Chicago, USA to Nagano is an approximately 30-hour combination of flight and car. Traveling from Chicago to Nagano, you'll lose 15 hours due to the time zone difference. Traveling from Chicago in January, things will get somewhat warmer in Nagano: highs are around 38°F and lows about 26°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 23rd (Thu) so you can travel back home.