In Nagano’s historic brewing districts, sake tours offer one of Japan’s most authentic drinking experiences.
The standout options combine sake tastings with cultural stops – I especially love the tours that include the snow monkeys and Zenko-ji Temple visits. Local guides explain traditional brewing methods while you sample premium sakes in centuries-old breweries.
Small groups (usually 4-8 people) ensure personal attention, and most tours run year-round with clear cancellation policies.
The half-day brewery walks are particularly good for learning about sake fundamentals, while full-day excursions provide a broader cultural context.
Check out these recommended sake tours to start your Nagano adventure.
Key Points
- Nagano offers a variety of sake tasting tours, including walking tours, izakaya food experiences, and sake education to immerse visitors in the local drinking culture.
- The Snow Monkey & Zenko-ji Temple Tours provide a comprehensive day trip experience, combining cultural exploration with sake tasting and natural wonders.
- Zenko-ji Temple, a revered Buddhist site, offers guided tours with insights into local traditions and practices, as well as dining options featuring regional cuisine.
- The Snow Monkey experiences at Jigokudani Monkey Park offer opportunities for scenic views and unique wildlife photography, with tours tailored for winter conditions.
- Nagano’s Nawate Street and Nakamachi Shopping Street provide a local street food experience and showcase the area’s cultural atmosphere, perfect for capturing high-quality photos.
Snow Monkey & ZinkoJi With Sake Tasting Private Tour
The Snow Monkey & ZinkoJi With Sake Tasting Private Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Nagano’s natural and cultural wonders.
Priced at $377.54 per group, this one-day tour includes visits to the historic Zenko-ji Temple, the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park, and a traditional Japanese meal with a sake tasting experience.
You’ll also have the chance to visit three museums showcasing the region’s history and culture.
Enjoy comfortable transportation in a private luxury van and the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.
With an overall rating of 4/5, this tour provides a well-rounded experience, though there may be some confusion around the sake tasting costs.
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
Set out on a captivating journey through the heart of Nagano, where you’ll discover the enchanting Snow Monkeys, the revered Zenko-ji Temple, and learn about the rich sake culture.
This full-day tour takes you to these iconic destinations, with transportation, lunch, and an English-speaking guide included. Hike to the Snow Monkey Park, explore the historic temple, and savor a sake tasting experience.
Seasonal considerations, such as winter conditions, are also accounted for, ensuring you’re well-prepared. With a maximum of 46 travelers, this tour promises an intimate and immersive experience in the natural and cultural wonders of Nagano.
Read our full review: 1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake in Nagano Review
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Nagano: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Day Trip
Discover the captivating Snow Monkeys, the revered Zenko-ji Temple, and learn about Nagano’s rich sake culture on this comprehensive day trip.
Priced at $134.38 per person, this 8-hour journey takes you from Hakuba, Happo, or Nagano to explore Japan’s iconic landmarks.
Admire the snow monkeys as they bathe in natural hot springs, then explore the history of the Zenko-ji Temple with a guided tour.
Savor a local lunch and indulge in a sake tasting experience, learning about this renowned beverage.
With exceptional ratings, knowledgeable guides, and seamless transportation, this day trip offers an immersive and unforgettable experience in Nagano.
Read our full review: Nagano: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Day Trip Review
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Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour
Seeking a sake-infused stroll through Nagano’s vibrant heart? The Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour delivers.
On this 5-star rated experience, you’ll sample a variety of sakes, from standard to handmade and sparkling. Between sips, savor miso soup, amazake, and snacks.
Your English-speaking guide provides immersive cultural insights as you explore the city. While not wheelchair-accessible, the moderate fitness level and minimum drinking age of 20 make this tour open to most.
Just note the tour doesn’t visit a brewery, so expectations should be set accordingly. This tasting tour offers an authentic glimpse into Nagano’s renowned sake culture.
Read our full review: Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour Review
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Izakaya Food Night Tour in Nagano
After exploring Nagano’s renowned sake culture on the walking tour, you can further learn about the local dining scene with the Izakaya Food Night Tour.
This 3-hour English-guided experience takes you to several local restaurants and a bar, where you’ll enjoy a full izakaya-style dinner with more than 5 dishes, noodles, and 2 alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks.
The tour starts and ends at Starbucks Nagano station, with private transportation available.
Reviewers praise the great food, knowledgeable guide, and overall wonderful experience.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over 70 years old.
Read our full review: Izakaya Food Night Tour in Nagano Review
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Snow Monkey, Zenko Ji Temple, Sake in Nagano Tour
For those eager to enjoy Nagano’s rich cultural heritage, the “Snow Monkey, Zenko Ji Temple, Sake in Nagano Tour” offers a comprehensive and unforgettable experience.
This private tour, which has earned a 90% recommendation rate from travelers, takes you to the snow monkeys, the historic Zenko Ji Temple, and provides you with the opportunity to sample local sake.
With private transportation, all fees and taxes included, and a provided lunch, this tour is an excellent value at $504.80 for up to 6 travelers.
While some have noted a lack of local knowledge, the overall feedback highlights the tour’s flexibility, excellent guides, and memorable experiences.
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
Exploring the artistic and cultural riches of Nagano, the Hokusai Museum, Ganshoin & Sake Walking Tour in Obuse offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s heritage.
This full-day experience includes visits to the Hokusai Museum, Takai Kozan Memorial Museum, and the Ganshoin Temple, along with a sake tasting at a local brewery.
Lunch at a top Obuse restaurant and professional-quality photos taken throughout the tour further enhance the experience.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for moderately fit travelers.
With a 5-star rating and free cancellation, this tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Nagano’s artistic and culinary delights.
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 11-hour journey that showcases the cultural and natural wonders of Nagano.
Starting at Nagano Station, you’ll visit the revered Zenko-ji Temple, taste the region’s renowned sake, and observe the famous snow monkeys bathing in hot springs.
This small-group tour, limited to 6 participants, is led by an English-speaking guide.
Enjoy convenient transportation, including a shuttle service from Hakuba for winter guests.
Enjoy Nagano’s culinary delights with a delicious lunch.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers flexibility and a chance to experience the best of Nagano at an affordable price.
Read our full review: Snow Monkey, Zenko Ji Temple, Sake in Nagano Tour Review
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Snow Monkeys, Nagano, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Day Trip
Enjoy Nagano’s cultural and natural wonders on this captivating 11-hour journey.
Explore the historic Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most significant Buddhist sites. Then, venture to the renowned Snow Monkey Park and observe the playful primates bathing in natural hot springs.
Savor a delicious local lunch before indulging in a sake tasting, learning about this iconic Japanese beverage.
With an English-speaking guide, private transportation, and a range of inclusions, this day trip provides a well-rounded experience.
Whether you’re seeking culture or natural beauty, this tour showcases the best of Nagano. Priced from $543.91 per group, it’s an exceptional value for groups up to 6 participants.
Read our full review: Snow Monkeys, Nagano, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Day Trip Review
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Matsumoto Sake Tasting Walking Tour in Nagano
If you’re seeking an immersive sake experience in Nagano, the Matsumoto Sake Tasting Walking Tour is an exceptional choice.
This 2-hour tour, limited to just 8 participants, takes you on a journey through Matsumoto’s vibrant streets and historic brewery. You’ll savor locally-produced sake, accompanied by Japanese pickles and green tea, while gaining insights into the region’s brewing techniques.
Explore the charming Nakamachi and Nawate shopping districts, absorbing the town’s rich history and culture. The tour includes high-quality photographs shared after the event.
While not suitable for certain groups, this walking tour offers a well-rounded sake-focused experience in the heart of Nagano.
Read our full review: Matsumoto Sake Tasting Walking Tour in Nagano Review
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Matsumoto Castle, Sake & Food Walking Tour in Nagano
This 3-hour Matsumoto Castle, Sake & Food Walking Tour in Nagano offers an immersive exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage and local culinary delights.
You’ll visit the 16th-century Matsumoto Castle, a national treasure, and enjoy a sake tasting session to learn about traditional brewing techniques.
The tour also takes you through Nawate Street for a taste of local street food and Nakamachi Shopping Street’s Edo-period atmosphere.
With a maximum of 8 participants and English-speaking guides, you’ll experience personalized attention and high-quality photos to capture your journey.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve your spot now and pay later.
Read our full review: Matsumoto Castle, Sake & Food Walking Tour in Nagano Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Typical Duration of These Drinking Tours?
The typical duration of drinking tours can vary, but they’re usually between 2-4 hours long. This allows enough time to visit multiple venues and sample a variety of local drinks while learning about the area’s drinking culture.
Do the Tours Provide Transportation Between Locations?
Yes, the drinking tours typically provide transportation between locations. This allows you to fully enjoy the experiences without having to worry about driving or navigating from one tasting or bar to the next.
Are the Tours Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?
Many drinking tours can accommodate vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions. The tour operators often work closely with local restaurants and venues to ensure all participants’ needs are met. Be sure to inform the tour company of any dietary requirements when booking.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for These Tours?
Yes, there are often discounts and package deals available for drinking tours. Many tour operators offer special rates for group bookings, early bird reservations, and combinations with other local attractions. Be sure to inquire about any applicable deals when planning your tour.
Can the Tours Be Customized to Accommodate Specific Interests or Requests?
Yes, many tour providers allow you to customize the tours to fit your specific interests and requests. This could include adjusting the itinerary, focus, or duration of the tour to suit your preferences.
Recap
You’ll find a wide range of drinking tours in Nagano, from private tours that combine the Snow Monkeys and Zenko-ji Temple with sake tasting to walking tours focused on Nagano’s renowned sake scene. Whether you’re interested in exploring Nagano’s cultural highlights or delving into its vibrant food and drink offerings, there’s a drinking tour to suit your interests.