Nagano Beckons Australians with Year-Round Alpine Allure
Nagano Prefecture is extending a warm invitation to Australian travellers, encouraging them to explore beyond the renowned ski fields and discover a region steeped in tradition, natural beauty, and authentic Japanese culture.
While long celebrated as a winter sports haven, Nagano is actively diversifying its tourism appeal, showcasing a wealth of experiences available throughout the year. Situated approximately 250 kilometres northwest of Tokyo, this alpine region is focusing on its unique heritage, distinctive cuisine, and captivating rural landscapes to attract visitors seeking a deeper connection with Japan.
“We’re aiming to present a different face of Japan - one that moves beyond the iconic, often crowded, urban centres,” explains Helen Wong, representing the Nagano Tourism Institution in Australia. “Nagano offers a chance to immerse yourself in a more intimate and genuine experience,a slower pace of life,and a glimpse into the heart of conventional Japan.”
Central to this initiative is the preservation of Nagano’s rich historical tapestry. The Nakasendo Trail, a remarkably well-maintained 534-kilometre route connecting Kyoto and Tokyo dating back to the Edo Period (1603-1868), offers a journey through time. Charming post towns like Magome, Tsumago, and Narai remain remarkably intact, showcasing beautifully preserved architecture and a lifestyle reflective of a bygone era.
“Walking these ancient paths and exploring these historic settlements provides a unique window into Japan’s past, a side often overlooked by modern travellers,” Wong emphasizes.
For those seeking tranquility and natural wonder, the village of Achi provides a captivating escape. Accessible by a convenient 100-minute bus ride from Nagoya, Achi’s Star Village, located at the summit of a local ski resort, boasts some of Japan’s clearest night skies, offering breathtaking views of the Milky Way.
Recent tourism data highlights Australia’s strong affinity for Nagano. In the first quarter of 2025, Australians accounted for 131,410 bed nights, ranking second only to Taiwanese visitors - a slight decrease from record figures, but still surpassing China.
Beyond its celebrated ski resorts, onsen (hot springs), and playful snow monkeys, Nagano is actively cultivating year-round appeal. Visitors can enjoy invigorating treks along historic trails, exhilarating cycling and rafting adventures in the Hakuba Valley, and immersive cultural experiences within the region’s captivating traditional villages. Nagano is poised to offer Australian travellers an unforgettable journey, revealing a side of Japan that is both captivating and profoundly rewarding.
