The Perfect 7-Day Nagano Ski Itinerary

Nagano is perfect for a road-trip style ski holiday. Unlike Hokkaido where you might sit in one resort, Nagano rewards exploration.

Here is our recommended "Golden Route" for a 7-day trip that balances skiing with cultural sightseeing.

Days 1-3: Nozawa Onsen (The Culture Leg)

Start your trip in Nozawa Onsen. It is easier to adjust to jetlag here because everything is walkable.

• Day 1: Arrival & Onsen. Check into your Ryokan, put on a Yukata, and soak in a public bath.
• Day 2: Ski Nozawa. Explore the long runs from the summit. Dinner at a local Izakaya.
• Day 3: Morning Ski, then transfer.

Day 4: The Transfer & Snow Monkeys

On the way from Nozawa to Hakuba, stop at the Jigokudani Monkey Park.

• Activity: See the wild macaques bathing in the hot springs. It is a 30-minute walk through the forest, so wear snow boots.
• Lunch: Stop in Obuse town for chestnut delicacies or Soba noodles.
• Arrival: Check into your hotel in Hakuba (Wadano or Echoland).

Days 5-7: Hakuba Valley (The Alpine Leg)

Now that you are acclaimed and rested, tackle the big mountains.

• Day 5: Happo-One. Ski the Olympic runs. It is steep and high.
• Day 6: Cortina. If it snowed overnight, go here. The tree runs are world-famous.
• Day 7: Iwatake or Goryu. A more relaxed day to finish. Iwatake has a bakery with stunning views.

Practical Tips for this Route

• Transport: The "Nagano Snow Shuttle" runs between these resorts, but a Rental Car gives you freedom for the Monkey Park day.
• Luggage: Use "Takkyubin" (Luggage Delivery) to send your ski bags from airport to hotel, so you don't haul them on the train.