An Unforgettable Journey to Nagano: Snowy Peaks, Hot Springs, and Winter Adventures
Japan has always fascinated us with its unique culture, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. As a group of six friends traveling from the United States, we had been planning this trip to Nagano for months, eager to hit the slopes and experience the best of Japan’s winter wonders. Our journey was filled with unexpected twists, amazing discoveries, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Arrival in Japan and an Unexpected Challenge
Our flight landed in Tokyo at 5 AM. We had planned to rent a car at the airport, knowing that Nagano was several hours away and that having our own vehicle would make the trip much easier. However, to our disappointment, there were no rental cars available at the airport. Many rental agencies were either closed at that hour or didn’t have the right type of vehicle for winter conditions.
Scrambling to find an alternative, we quickly searched online and found Japan Travel Assist, a company specializing in car rentals for travelers in Japan. To our relief, they responded immediately and delivered a car to us in no time. What amazed us was that it was a 4WD (four-wheel-drive) vehicle, perfect for the snowy mountain roads ahead. Even better, it came equipped with winter tires and a roof box, where we could conveniently store our snowboards and skis.
The team at Japan Travel Assist didn’t just provide us with a car; they also took the time to explain how to use Japan’s expressways. Since Japanese highways are quite different from those in the U.S., this guidance was invaluable, especially when it came to toll roads and navigation.
The Road to Nagano: Snowy Landscapes and First Impressions
As we drove out of Tokyo, the scenery around us began to change. The busy streets and towering buildings gave way to open highways, picturesque villages, and snow-covered landscapes.
For the first few hours, we simply enjoyed the journey. The realization that we were finally in Japan, heading toward the mountains, made every moment feel surreal. The smooth, well-maintained roads and the breathtaking views only added to the excitement.
We made a stop at a Japanese service area (SA – Service Area), which was unlike anything we had seen in the U.S. Instead of just gas stations and convenience stores, there were hot meals, snacks, and even small souvenir shops. We tried onigiri (rice balls), warm nikuman (steamed buns filled with meat), and some hot canned coffee from a vending machine—simple yet incredibly satisfying.
Hitting the Slopes: Snowboarding and Skiing in Nagano
When we finally arrived at our destination in Nagano, we were greeted by a winter wonderland—fresh snow, well-prepared ski slopes, and crisp mountain air. Without wasting any time, we grabbed our snowboards and skis and hit the slopes.
Nagano is famous for hosting the 1998 Winter Olympics, and it’s easy to see why. The facilities, infrastructure, and trails are top-notch, catering to all skill levels—from beginners to expert riders.
One of the highlights of our time on the slopes was riding through fresh powder snow. The feeling of carving through untouched snow, with the cold air rushing past us, was absolutely exhilarating. Whether we were taking on challenging runs or simply gliding down scenic trails, every moment was pure joy.
Hot Springs: The Perfect Way to Unwind
After a long day on the slopes, there was nothing better than soaking in a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring).
We visited one of the region’s most famous onsens, where we could bathe in steaming hot water while surrounded by snowy trees. The contrast between the freezing air and the warm, mineral-rich water was nothing short of magical.
There was a profound sense of relaxation in that moment—our muscles loosened, our minds cleared, and we simply embraced the beauty of the experience.
Snow Monkeys: A Unique Wildlife Encounter
The next day, we made our way to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, a must-visit attraction in Nagano.
This park is home to Japanese snow monkeys, who are known for their habit of bathing in natural hot springs. Unlike animals in a zoo, these monkeys live freely in the wild and are completely unbothered by human presence.
Watching them up close was both fascinating and entertaining. Some monkeys sat peacefully in the hot water, while others played and chased each other around. It was almost as if they were enjoying their own version of a spa day, just like us the night before!
Culinary Delights: The Best Japanese Fish and Local Specialties
Of course, no trip to Japan would be complete without incredible food. In Nagano, we had the chance to try an abundance of delicious dishes, with Japanese fish being the true highlight.
From fresh sushi and sashimi to grilled fish prepared with local ingredients, every meal was a delight. One of our most memorable meals featured freshly sliced tuna, served with authentic wasabi grown in the Nagano region.
Another specialty we enjoyed was soba (buckwheat noodles), a dish Nagano is famous for. Served both hot in broth and cold with dipping sauce, it was simple yet incredibly flavorful.
Final Thoughts: A Journey We’ll Never Forget
Our trip to Nagano was truly an unforgettable adventure. From overcoming the initial challenge of finding transportation to experiencing some of Japan’s most breathtaking landscapes, every moment was filled with excitement, discovery, and joy.
This journey reminded us that **travel isn’t just about destinations—it
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