Nagano’s drinking scene deserves special attention, with tours that showcase Japan’s finest sake traditions.
The standout experiences combine cultural landmarks with exceptional tastings. I love the Snow Monkey Park tour, which pairs wildlife viewing with sake sampling at historic breweries.
The evening izakaya crawls through local neighborhoods offer the most authentic drinking experiences, while the Matsumoto Castle route blends history with premium sake varieties.
The best tours keep groups intimate – usually 8 people or fewer – and include English-speaking guides who know their sake.
My favorite tour includes three family-run breweries and traditional drinking snacks.
Let’s explore the top drinking tours that make Nagano special.
Key Points
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Nagano offers a variety of sake tasting tours, including the Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour, Hokusai Museum & Sake Walking Tour, and Matsumoto Sake Tasting Walking Tour.
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The 1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake Tour provides a comprehensive experience, including visits to the Snow Monkey Park and Zenko-ji Temple, along with a sake tasting.
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The Izakaya Food Night Tour allows visitors to explore Nagano’s vibrant izakaya culture, with a full meal and drinks included.
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Matsumoto Castle Tour offers a chance to learn about the region’s history and architecture, with the opportunity for photography.
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The tours highlight Nagano’s rich heritage, local gastronomy, and cultural traditions, providing a well-rounded experience for visitors.
Snow Monkey & ZinkoJi With Sake Tasting Private Tour
Embarking on the Snow Monkey & ZinkoJi With Sake Tasting Private Tour, you’ll explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Nagano.
For $9,069 per group of up to 6 participants, you’ll enjoy a full-day excursion, including English-guided visits to the renowned Zenko-ji Temple and the Jigokudani Monkey Park.
Witness snow monkeys in their natural habitat and savor a traditional Japanese meal with sake tasting.
The tour also includes cultural exploration at local museums.
Convenient pickup from Hakuba, Tokyo, or Nagano is included, though an additional charge of $250 applies for Tokyo.
With a 4/5 rating based on one review, this tour offers an immersive experience blending nature, spirituality, and culinary delights.
Read our full review: Snow Monkey & ZinkoJi With Sake Tasting Private Tour Review
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1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake in Nagano
For your exploration of Nagano’s natural wonders and cultural treasures, the 1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake in Nagano tour offers an immersive experience.
Set out on a journey that takes you to the iconic Snow Monkey Park, the historic Zenko-ji Temple, and a sake tasting at a local brewery. With knowledgeable guides, you’ll gain insight into the region’s rich heritage.
The tour includes round-trip Shinkansen tickets, a local lunch, and winter shuttle service from Hakuba. While the moderate hike to the monkey park may pose a challenge, the opportunity to see the snow monkeys in their natural habitat and savor the flavors of Nagano’s renowned sake make this an unforgettable day.
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Nagano: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Day Trip
On this enchanting day trip in Nagano, you’ll learn about the region’s natural splendor and cultural heritage.
You’ll visit the historic Zenko-ji Temple, observe the famous snow monkeys bathing in hot springs, and enjoy a sake tasting at a local brewery.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a traditional Japanese lunch, and knowledgeable English-speaking guides.
While the itinerary is subject to change, you can expect a seamless experience with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
This tour is a must-do for those seeking an authentic taste of Nagano’s iconic sights and experiences.
Read our full review: Nagano: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Day Trip Review
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Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour
Alongside your journey through Nagano’s natural wonders and cultural landmarks, you’ll now have the chance to learn about the region’s renowned sake tradition.
The Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the art of sake making. With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from your English-speaking guide as you sample a variety of high-quality sakes, accompanied by miso soup, amazake, and tasty nibbles.
The tour also includes professional photographs to capture your experience. While not suitable for those with medical conditions, the moderate walking level is perfect for most.
With a 95% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour promises an authentic and immersive sake tasting adventure in Nagano.
Read our full review: Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour Review
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Izakaya Food Night Tour in Nagano
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to learn about the vibrant izakaya culture of Nagano? The Izakaya Food Night Tour offers a unique opportunity to do just that.
For $99.18, you’ll embark on a 3-hour journey, visiting 3 different izakaya establishments and savoring a full meal, including more than 5 dishes and noodles, along with 2 drinks.
Led by local, English-speaking guides, you’ll not only enjoy the food but also learn about the hidden bars and experience a photography tour.
With a minimum age of 20 for alcohol consumption, this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over 70.
But if you’re looking to dive into Nagano’s vibrant izakaya scene, this tour is a must-try.
Read our full review: Izakaya Food Night Tour in Nagano Review
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Snow Monkey, Zenko Ji Temple, Sake in Nagano Tour
Enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of Nagano on the Snow Monkey, Zenko Ji Temple, Sake in Nagano Tour.
This private tour offers a comprehensive experience, transporting you in an air-conditioned vehicle to visit the enchanting Snow Monkey Park and the historic Zenko-ji Temple.
Savor a local lunch before exploring Nagano’s sake scene. With a 4.5-star rating and a 90% traveler recommendation, this tour is a must for those seeking an authentic taste of Nagano.
While some guests note it leans more towards a private driver service, the highly praised guides ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
With flexible booking and free cancellation, this tour is the perfect way to discover the best of Nagano.
Read our full review: Snow Monkey, Zenko Ji Temple, Sake in Nagano Tour Review
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Hokusai Museum, Ganshoin & Sake Walking Tour in Obuse, Nagano
Dive into the captivating world of Hokusai, one of Japan’s most celebrated artists, on the Hokusai Museum, Ganshoin & Sake Walking Tour in Obuse, Nagano.
With entrance fees to the Hokusai Museum and Takai Kozan Memorial Museum included, you’ll gain insight into the artist’s life and work.
Enjoy a sake tasting at a local brewery and an exceptional lunch at a top restaurant in Obuse.
Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable guide will capture high-quality photographs to share post-experience.
Transportation from Nagano station is provided, and the tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers with a moderate fitness level required.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before and a 5.0 overall rating, this is an experience not to be missed.
Read our full review: Hokusai Museum, Ganshoin & Sake Walking Tour in Obuse, Nagano Review
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Snow Monkey, Zenko-ji Temple, Sake in Nagano Tour
Set out on a captivating journey through the heart of Nagano as you explore the iconic Snow Monkey Park, the historic Zenko-ji Temple, and indulge in a sake tasting experience.
This 11-hour tour, priced at $735.87 for up to 6 participants, offers a comprehensive immersion in the region’s cultural and natural wonders.
You’ll visit the world-famous hot spring-bathing monkeys, discover the spiritual significance of Zenko-ji, and savor local cuisine paired with delectable sake.
With an English-speaking guide, comfortable transportation, and flexible booking options, this tour is a must-do for any visitor seeking an authentic Nagano experience.
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Snow Monkeys, Nagano, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Day Trip
Explore the enchanting snow monkeys, the historic Zenko-ji Temple, and the captivating world of Nagano’s sake on this comprehensive day trip.
You’ll start at Nagano Station, then head to the Snow Monkey Park to witness the famous hot spring-bathing macaques.
Next, you’ll tour the impressive Zenko-ji Temple and sample delicious local sake.
Lunch highlights Nagano’s cuisine.
In winter, guests from Hakuba can take a shuttle to the meeting point.
The tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, park fees, and bullet train tickets.
Not suitable for those with mobility issues or babies under 1 year.
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Read our full review: Snow Monkeys, Nagano, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Day Trip Review
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Matsumoto Sake Tasting Walking Tour in Nagano
Venture on a captivating sake tasting walking tour through the historic streets of Matsumoto, Nagano.
You’ll explore Nakamachi Shopping Street, hidden gems, and Nawate Street, known as “Frog Street.”
At a local brewery, you’ll savor authentic sake and learn about the brewing process.
Enjoy Japanese pickles and hot green tea after the tasting.
The tour, limited to 8 participants, lasts 2 hours and is conducted in English.
Priced at €60.76 per person, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Discover Matsumoto’s blend of medieval history and modernity as you learn about the local sake culture.
Read our full review: Matsumoto Sake Tasting Walking Tour in Nagano Review
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Matsumoto Castle, Sake & Food Walking Tour in Nagano
Enjoy the captivating blend of history, culture, and local flavors during the Matsumoto Castle, Sake & Food Walking Tour in Nagano.
At just $99.18 per person, this 3-hour small-group tour offers unbeatable value. Explore the iconic 16th-century Matsumoto Castle, learn about sake production, and savor delicious street food.
With an English-speaking guide, you’ll gain insider knowledge and capture stunning photos. While not suitable for certain groups, the tour is highly reviewed for its personalized attention and enriching cultural experiences.
Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the best of Nagano’s heritage and gastronomy.
Read our full review: Matsumoto Castle, Sake & Food Walking Tour in Nagano Review
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The Sum Up
Nagano offers a range of immersive drinking tours that let you experience the region’s rich sake culture. From visiting historic temples and snow monkeys to tasting local izakaya fare, these tours provide an authentic taste of Japanese tradition. Whether you’re in Nagano for a day trip or staying longer, you’ll find plenty of options to quench your thirst and deepen your understanding of this captivating prefecture.