Travel Budget for Nagano Visit Nagano on a Budget or Travel in Style

Nagano, Nagano-ken, Japan

Nagano is a traditional city known for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. Whether you're skiing on the slopes, exploring the museums, or eating the delicious cuisine, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Nagano that stays within your budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Nagano?

You should plan to spend around $106 (¥16,186) per day on your vacation in Nagano. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $38 (¥5,823) on meals
  • $9.83 (¥1,500) on local transportation
  • $122 (¥18,600) on hotels

A one week trip to Nagano for two people costs, on average, $1,484 (¥226,604). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $106
    ¥16,186
  • One Week Per person
    $742
    ¥113,302
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $1,484
    ¥226,604
  • One Month Per person
    $3,181
    ¥485,580
  • One Week For a couple
    $1,484
    ¥226,604
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $2,969
    ¥453,208
  • One Month For a couple
    $6,362
    ¥971,160
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Nagano cost?

A one week trip to Nagano usually costs around $742 (¥113,302) for one person and $1,484 (¥226,604) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Nagano on average costs around $1,484 (¥226,604) for one person and $2,969 (¥453,208) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Nagano will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Nagano on average costs around $3,181 (¥485,580) for one person and $6,362 (¥971,160) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Nagano expensive to visit?

Nagano is a popular city that attracts many visitors who have various travel styles and spending habits. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.

You may find Nagano to be expensive in some places, but there are ways to keep your budget in check, like eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.

On average, budget travelers spend $86 (¥13,080) per day, mid-range travelers spend $106 (¥16,186) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $125 (¥19,012) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Nagano.

Within Asia, Nagano is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Chongqing or Taiyuan.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Nagano Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Nagano?

The average Nagano trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Nagano travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Nagano cost?

Nagano on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$61
(¥9,300)
$61
(¥9,300)
$61
(¥9,300)
Local Transportation 1 $10
(¥1,500)
$10
(¥1,500)
$10
(¥1,500)
Food 2 $18
(¥2,718)
$38
(¥5,823)
$57
(¥8,650)
Entertainment 1 $8
(¥1,250)
$8
(¥1,250)
$8
(¥1,250)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget in Nagano. While many think they can cut costs for many things, the reality is that most people won't enjoy such a low-budget experience. Consider your preferences and travel style. Do you like resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, or hostels? Are activities and dining out a big part of your travel plans? Your answers will shape your budget and itinerary.

What Defines a Budget Traveler?

While you might think you're a budget traveler, without giving up many of your usual comforts, you'll likely need to spend more than the $86 per day that backpackers often spend.

Backpackers often work within this tight budget by staying in hostel dorms, eating fast food or street food, using public transit, and mainly visiting free attractions.

Fortunately, you'll find plenty of hostels in Nagano, such as Dot Hostel Nagano, Guest House KURA, and Mash Café & Bed NAGANO. These hostels provide inexpensive dormitory lodging and a friendly atmosphere, but amenities are quite limited. The culinary scene is a major highlight for those visiting Nagano, but budget travelers often eat street food or cook for themselves in hostels, which can mean missing out on delicious local dishes.

So, are you average?

Couples and families enjoying a vacation will probably want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular dining spots, and explore the key museums and attractions that have entry fees. Exploring the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks is a must for most visitors to Nagano. Keep in mind that most activities cost money. Thus, it's reasonable to expect your daily budget to be around $106 per person, per day.

Want to Escape the Daily Grind in Style?

If your ideal trip includes every luxury and top-tier service, be ready to budget around $125 per day. A stay at nicer hotels, meals at prestigious restaurants, fancy excursions, and getting around the city with taxis or private drivers will cost you more.

Accommodation Budget in Nagano

Nagano offers a broad range of hotel prices, from budget to luxury. Higher-end hotels come with more amenities and higher prices, particularly during peak season. Off-season, you'll find average rates around $89, but during peak summer or winter season, they can average $166. Prices range from $49 to $422, and hostels tend to be much cheaper. Save money by visiting during the low season or by taking advantage of early booking and special promotions.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Nagano for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $122 (¥18,600). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $61 (¥9,300) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $61
    ¥9,300
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $122
    ¥18,600

Hotels in Nagano

Looking for a hotel in Nagano? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Nagano

The average hotel room price in Nagano based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $89 in the low season and $166 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Nagano include:

  • Fuchinobo Hotel Nagano starting at $270
  • Hotel Metropolitan Nagano starting at $69
  • Chisun Grand Nagano starting at $40
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Nagano

Nagano's great public transit offers the flexibility to stay farther from the city, but be mindful that your transportation costs may increase, and it could be a time drain.

Nagano is a very family-friendly place, and when traveling with children, it's important to find accommodations with extra space.

If you travel during the low or shoulder season (and skip summer or winter), you'll enjoy lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists.

Prices often soar during ski season, so make sure to reserve your spot early. Locations with easy access to the slopes fill up quickly and may come with a high price tag.

The city's captivating old town is a key attraction for visitors. Hotels in this area may be expensive, but they often have a lot of charm and provide easy access to everything.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Nagano

Nagano has a decent public transportation system that reaches several top attractions. The main station in town is Nagano Station. There's a bus and train system through the area, including buses that run to Zenkoji Temple. There's also a bus that goes to the Togakushi area and takes about an hour. However, renting a car will give you more freedom and efficiency. . For an affordable and quick way to get around, public transit works well, depending on your location. Taxis and rideshares are also an option if needed.

You'll find that parts of Nagano are quite pedestrian-friendly, making sightseeing a breeze. Parts of the city are walkable and there are hiking trails around the Togakushi area, where you'll find many shrines and other attractions.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (good)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (good)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $9.83 (¥1,500) per person, per day, on local transportation in Nagano. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Nagano is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $9.83
    ¥1,500

Transportation Tips

Check that your hotel has convenient parking if you're planning on driving.

In Japan, trains are one of the fastest and lowest cost means of transportation. Getting a Japan Rail Pass can save you money if you plan to stay for several days or more. Regional and nation-wide passes are available, usually for the number of days of your choice.



Flights to Nagano
How much does it cost to go to Nagano? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Nagano
The price of renting a car in Nagano will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Nagano

The local cuisine in Nagano is terrific, so make it a point to take time to taste all the unique flavors. You'll find many of Japan's culinary favorites here like ramen, udon, sushi, and sashimi. There are also regional dishes and some comfort food like Tonkatsu and Oyaki Dumplings.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Nagano can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Nagano is $38 (¥5,823) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $38
    ¥5,823

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Nagano is around $38 (¥5823) per person, with previous travelers spending from $18 to $57. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Nagano are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $4 to $11
  • Lunch: $6 to $15
  • Dinner: $11 to $27
  • Coffee: $3
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $6

When it comes to food, Nagano is best known for its soba (buckwheat noodles), known as Shinano soba or Shinshu soba. In fact, Togakushi, about an hour by bus in northwest of the city center, is considered to have some of the best soba in Japan. Miso, or fermented bean paste, is also a famous product of the region and staple throughout Japan, as is oyaki which consists of small grilled dough balls filled with vegetables or meat. For the adventurous palette, some of the more unusual specialties include basashi (raw horse meat) and inago (locusts). Bento, a kind of Japanese packed meal, is popular throughout Japan-the local form being the Kamameshi bento. You can find them at train stations, cooked and served in a clay pot. And then there are sweet and juicy Nagano apples, for the prefecture yields the second largest crop in Japan.

Food in Nagano

Food & Dining Tips

When you're out with kids, seek restaurants that provide a kids' menu. This can help you save a good chunk of change, as these meals are usually priced lower. Remember, some places may not display their kids' options, so be sure to ask the server before ordering.

A lot of hotels include breakfast in their price, but some may add it as an extra charge. The price and quality can differ from one hotel to the next. Being aware of this ahead of time can help you figure out if you'll need to shell out more money. The hotel buffet could be delicious, or you might opt for a more affordable treat at a nearby bakery or cafe.

Making a picnic is a fantastic way to save money and enjoy the views. Head to a local grocery store or market, pick up fresh goodies, and find a charming park or scenic area to eat your meal.

Using a water bottle can save you money on drinks while being eco-friendly.

Before embarking on a tour, ensure you know which meals are included. You might have to pay for some food yourself, and that can add to your travel expenses.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Nagano

It's easy to see why people visit Nagano, given its skiing, museums and attractions, food, and nightlife.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Nagano typically cost an average of $8.19 (¥1,250) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $8.19
    ¥1,250

The Zenkoji Temple is the center of Nagano. It is a major pilgrimage site and stores the first Buddhist statue ever to be brought into Japan when Buddhism was first introduced in the 6th century. The original statue remains hidden within the temple while a copy of it is shown to the public every six years for a few weeks. Zenkoji is also significant because the town of Nagano was built around it. Some of its features include a decorative main hall and dark underground passage to the "key to paradise" which is thought to grant salvation to anyone who touches it. Near the temple there is also the Zenkoji History Museum, the main Sanmon Gate, and the outer Niomon Gate. Just south of Zenkoji's main gate there is also Nishi-no-Mon, a sake brewery with a restaurant, small museum, and shops housed in traditional buildings. Other attractions of the city include the Shinano Art Museum which holds rotating exhibitions of local fine art, and the Olympic facilities remaining from the 1998 Winter Olympics. These include the M-Wave, the Olympic Stadium, the White Ring, and the Big Hat.

Outside of the city, to the forested mountains of the northwest, there is the Togakushi region of Nagano. Here is the home of the Togakushi shrine which consists of a lower, middle, and upper shrine important to Japanese mythology. They are connected both by roads and hiking trails up the mountain's forested slopes with opportunities to see a small waterfall, age old architecture, sacred trees, and a serene pond amidst mountain scenery. The Togakushi area is also home to the Togakure Ninja School, Togakushi Ninpo Museum, and the Kids Ninja Village-a small theme park with ninja related attractions.



Beyond the temples, shrines, Olympic facilities, and attractions of the mountainous Togakushi area, Nagano holds a festival each summer on the first Saturday in August. The festival is called Binzuru and involves a parade of people walking and dancing down the main street all the way down to the Zenkoji Temple to rub a Binzaru statue for luck.

If you seek some relaxation after all of your sightseeing, Nagano is also in the vicinity of some renowned onsen, or bath houses. Kagai Onsen Ichiyoukan has separate long flowing indoor baths for men and women, while Omuro Onsen Makibanoyu has a large outdoor bath with views across the Zenkouji Plain to the Northern Alps.

In the winter, Karuizawa is a popular mountain resort town to visit, while Nozawa Onsen serves as a hot spring and ski resort.

Sightseeing Tips

Skiing:
Skiing in NaganoOne of the biggest reasons tourists come to Nagano is to hit the slopes for skiing and snowboarding. The city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and many of the skiing events were held at ski resorts in the area. In the Nagano Prefecture you'll find several ski resorts with some of the most popular being the Hakuba ski areas, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, and Myoko Kogen.

Museums and Attractions:
Attractions in NaganoNagano's museums and landmarks are must-sees for any visitor. The area is filled with history and there are many places to explore. Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, Zenko-ji Temple, and Togakushi Shrine are just some of the highlights.

Hiking:
Hiking in NaganoThe hiking paths in the vicinity of Nagano are superb. The surrounding area is filled with stunning scenery, natural beauty, and beautiful hikes. You'll find shrines and temples, historic villages, nice views, and peaceful walks throughout the region. One of the most unique walks is along the highest road in Japan, the Norikura Echo Line. The route is at 8,800 feet and is lined with ten meter high snow walls. It's open from from late April to the end of June every year.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Nagano. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Tokyo: A Memorabele Snow Monkey Park and Zenkoji Temple Tour for $544 details
  • Tokyo: Luxury Snow Monkey Park Private Tour In Land Cruiser for $557 details

Recommended Activities


Budgeting and Travel Tips for Nagano

  • Prices in the city rise and crowds swell during the peak summer or winter season. For a more budget-friendly and less crowded experience, consider visiting in the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Opting for a slower travel pace can help you keep your budget in check while enjoying the scenic beauty. If you overbook your days with activities, you'll find yourself spending more. But taking your time often results in lower costs and a more fulfilling experience.

Budgeting Challenges

  • During the winter, many visitors come to enjoy the skiing and snowboarding available in the area. However, these activities can be expensive, leaving little room for budget flexibility. Lift tickets, ski gear rentals, and peak-season lodging will significantly affect your trip's overall budget. Make sure to check your travel insurance for complete coverage.
  • When you're on the go with young kids, opting for a private vehicle or taxi is likely the way to go. Sometimes, avoiding the hassle of public transportation is worth the extra cost.
Traveling in Nagano
Nagano Narai-juku historic town, Nagano, Japan (©Nagano Prefecture/©JNTO)

Nagano city and its surrounding prefecture of Japan is a temple region built around Zenkoji, a 7th century Buddhist temple that overlooks the city. Nagano was also home to the Winter Olympic Games in 1998, with some facilities still existing around town. And then there is the forested mountain Togakushi area to the northwest, which is another draw of Nagano, known for its shrines and status as the home of the Togakure Ninja School.



Neighborhoods & Around

The city of Nagano is centered on Zenkoji Temple. Chuo Dori Street is the main thoroughfare that leads up to the temple and is lined with plenty of traditional shop buildings and ryokan, or traditional Japanese hotels. Around the temple itself there are also a number of food stalls and souvenir shops to enjoy amidst the traditional design of the temple and gardens. Another popular hub of activity is Gondo Dori Shopping Street which is full of cafes, restaurants, and shops as well. Beyond Nagano city, there is the Togakushi area known for its shrine and ninja school as well as several mountain towns including Hakuba, Karuizawa, Nozawa, and Shiga Kogen.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.