This is a private guided tour report by Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.), a network of 1,000+ government-licensed, English-speaking local guides across all 47 prefectures of Japan. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.
Tour Itinerary
- 10:00 Nagano Station Meet at the Shinkansen ticket gate Store luggage in a locker and start the tour Go to Zenkoji Temple by bus
- 10:30 Sightseeing at Zenkoji Temple (Niomon Gate, Nakamise Street, Sanmon Gate, Main Hall)
- 12:00 Visit the Binzuru Market
- 13:30 Joyama Zoo
- 14:45 Go to Nagano Station by taxi Lunch at the soba restaurant Kusabue inside the station building "MIDORI"
- 15:30 Shopping for souvenirs at the shops inside MIDORI
- 16:00 Guide you to the train platform for traveling to today's accommodation, Myoko Kogen Disband there
What's a Private Nagano Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Zenkoji, Joyama Zoo, and Local Soba
The guests were a group visiting from North America. The itinerary was left up to me, and the only request was that they wanted to see monkeys, so I guided them mainly around Zenkoji Temple and Joyama Zoo. Since movement was somewhat limited, we were fortunate that the Binzuru Market happened to be held near Zenkoji Temple, which allowed the guests to enjoy a local event unique to the region without having to travel far. They were also interested in food, and they thoroughly enjoyed Shinshu soba. The guests had very good manners, and it was a pleasure to guide such a delightful group.
Click here for more details: Nagano Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Transportation cost per person
| No. | Transportation | Route | Fare |
| Section 1 | Bus | Nagano Station／Alpico Kotsu Nagano～Zenkoji Daimon／Alpico Kotsu Nagano | 190JPY |
| Total | 190JPY | ||
Hi, I’m YOU – your guide in Japan!
I worked in the travel industry for over 37 years, leading more than 250 tours in Japan and abroad. I also lived in London for 4 years as a travel company manager, and spent several months in Mexico – so I’m used to welcoming guests from all over the world.
With Nagano as my base – famous for its mountains, temples, and castles – I offer tours throughout Japan. Each tour is tailored to your interests, pace, and travel style, and I am flexible in adjusting the plan so you can truly enjoy the journey in your own way.
I love sharing stories about Japanese history, culture, samurai, and everyday life, with a special passion for castles. As a volunteer guide at Matsumoto Castle, I’ve welcomed over 100 groups.
My goal is to make your trip not only enjoyable, but also filled with moments you will remember for a lifetime. I look forward to meeting you and creating a wonderful experience together!