Nagano’s drinking scene is anchored by its excellent sake breweries and atmospheric izakayas.
The best tours cut straight to what matters: authentic tastings at family-run breweries, local food pairings, and transportation between venues.
I’m especially fond of the combination tours that include both sake education and visits to traditional pubs – they give you the complete picture of the region’s drinking culture.
The snow monkey hot spring add-on tours are a unique bonus, letting you experience Nagano’s natural side between tastings.
Remember to book ahead during peak winter season.
Let’s explore the top drinking tours worth your time and money.
Good To Know
The Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour offers a personalized, half-day experience exploring Nagano’s diverse sake culture, including standard, hand-crafted, and specialty varieties.
The Izakaya Food Night Tour in Nagano provides an immersive evening showcasing the city’s vibrant backstreet dining scene with visits to three local restaurants and sake tastings.
The Snow Monkey, Zenko Ji Temple, Sake in Nagano Tour combines cultural, natural, and culinary experiences, including a private guided visit to a sake brewery.
The Hokusai Museum, Ganshoin & Sake Walking Tour in Obuse Nagano offers an artistic and sake-focused experience, with entry to museums and a tasting at a local brewery.
The Matsumoto Sake Tasting Walking Tour in Nagano focuses on exploring the city’s sake culture, with tastings, Japanese pickles, and green tea, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.
Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour
The Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour offers a captivating half-day experience that allows you to learn about the rich sake culture of Nagano, Japan.
With a maximum group size of 15 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized tasting of various sake styles, including standard, hand-crafted, sparkling, and unprocessed varieties, along with plum wine and amazake.
Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, you’ll also savor miso soup and nibbles while exploring the local sights.
Rated 5.0 out of 19 reviews, this tour boasts a 95% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, making it a must-do activity for sake enthusiasts visiting Nagano.
Read our full review: Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour Review
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Izakaya Food Night Tour in Nagano
An evening Izakaya food tour in Nagano promises an immersive exploration of the city’s vibrant backstreet dining scene.
For $99.18 per person, you’ll visit three local restaurants over three hours, sampling more than five dishes, including noodles like Soba, and enjoying two included drinks.
Led by an English-speaking local expert, you’ll discover hidden bars and have ample photo opportunities.
The tour starts and ends at Starbucks Coffee – MIDORI Nagano, with convenient private transportation provided.
While not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over 70, the tour boasts an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on six reviews praising the restaurant choices, local guides, and enjoyable cultural discussions.
Read our full review: Izakaya Food Night Tour in Nagano Review
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Snow Monkey, Zenko Ji Temple, Sake in Nagano Tour
While visiting Nagano, take the opportunity to learn about the region’s rich cultural and natural heritage on the Snow Monkey, Zenko Ji Temple, Sake in Nagano Tour.
This highly-rated private tour showcases the best of Nagano, from the iconic snow monkeys to the historic Zenko Ji Temple and a sake tasting experience.
Enjoy the comfort of a private air-conditioned vehicle and all-inclusive amenities like lunch and entry tickets.
Wheelchair accessibility and infant seats are available, ensuring a seamless experience for all.
With a 90% recommendation rate from previous travelers, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Nagano’s natural wonders and cultural delights.
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
Discover the artistic heritage and sake delights of Obuse on the Hokusai Museum, Ganshoin & Sake Walking Tour. This immersive experience takes you to the Hokusai Museum, Ganshoin Temple, and Takai Kozan Memorial Museum, providing entry fees.
Savor a sake tasting at a local brewery and enjoy a top-notch lunch in Obuse. Your guide, Masa, will capture high-quality photographs to share post-tour.
Transportation from Nagano station and an infant meal are included. While not wheelchair accessible, this tour requires a moderate fitness level.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, you’re ensured a personalized experience. At $116.69, this tour offers unbeatable value for art, culture, and culinary enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Hokusai Museum, Ganshoin & Sake Walking Tour in Obuse Nagano Review
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1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake in Nagano Tour
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Nagano’s cultural and natural wonders on the Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake in Nagano Tour.
Explore the 1400-year-old Zenko-ji Temple, then enjoy a guided sake tasting at a nearby brewery.
Hike through a scenic forest trail to the Snow Monkey Park and witness the local macaques bathing in natural hot springs.
Savor a delicious lunch featuring local cuisine, with vegetarian and vegan options available.
This highly-rated tour is recommended by 98% of travelers and promises a memorable cultural experience in Nagano.
Don’t miss the chance to learn about Japan’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
Read our full review: 1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake in Nagano Tour Review
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Nagano: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Day Trip
Enjoy Nagano’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders on this comprehensive day trip.
You’ll visit the iconic Zenkoji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest and most significant Buddhist sites. Next, experience a sake brewery and enjoy a tasting session.
Savor a delightful local lunch before heading to the Jigokudani Monkey Park to observe the famous “snow monkeys” in their natural habitat.
Transportation, including a winter shuttle service from Hakuba, is provided, making this tour a seamless and convenient way to explore Nagano.
With a knowledgeable guide, flexible booking options, and excellent customer reviews, this day trip offers an immersive cultural and culinary experience not to be missed.
Read our full review: Nagano: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Day Trip Review
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Snow Monkeys, Nagano, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Day Trip
This comprehensive day trip offers an immersive exploration of Nagano’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.
You’ll visit the iconic Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest and most significant Buddhist sites. Then, witness the unique behavior of the snow monkeys as they bathe in natural hot springs.
The experience also includes a sake tasting, allowing you to learn about this iconic Japanese beverage.
With round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and flexible scheduling options, this tour provides a seamless and hassle-free way to experience the best of Nagano.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable cultural adventure, this day trip has a lot to offer.
Read our full review: Snow Monkeys, Nagano, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Day Trip Review
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Matsumoto Castle, Sake & Food Walking Tour in Nagano
Frequently, visitors to Nagano opt for the Matsumoto Castle, Sake & Food Walking Tour as it provides an immersive glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
This 3-hour small-group excursion starts at Starbucks Midori Matsumoto Station before exploring the 16th-century Matsumoto Castle. After admiring the panoramic views, you’ll venture to a historic brewery for a sake tasting.
The tour also includes sampling street foods like taiyaki and takoyaki on Nawate Street, as well as time to explore the well-preserved merchant houses of Nakamachi Shopping Street.
With knowledgeable guides, high-quality photographs, and a maximum of 8 participants, this tour delivers an engaging cultural experience.
Priced from $99.18 per person, it’s a must for those seeking an authentic taste of Nagano.
Read our full review: Matsumoto Castle, Sake & Food Walking Tour in Nagano Review
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Matsumoto Sake Tasting Walking Tour in Nagano
Set out on a two-hour Matsumoto Sake Tasting Walking Tour that promises an authentic exploration of Nagano’s rich sake culture.
For €60.76 per person, you’ll visit Nakamachi Shopping Street, a hidden gem, and Nawate Street, with a 10-minute walk between each stop.
Learn about the art of sake brewing, enjoy a tasting session, and savor Japanese pickles and hot green tea.
Capture high-quality photos throughout the experience, which includes an introduction to local eateries and cafes.
While not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over 70, this tour offers a 5/5 experience based on customer feedback, with a convenient meeting point at the Starbucks Midori Matsumoto Station.
Read our full review: Matsumoto Sake Tasting Walking Tour in Nagano Review
Book now: Check availability
Questions About Staying Here
What Is the Average Duration of the Tours?
Most drinking tours range from 3 to 5 hours, allowing you to explore the local breweries and distilleries at a leisurely pace. The exact duration may vary depending on the specific tour and the number of stops included.
Are the Tours Suitable for Vegetarians or Vegans?
The tours are generally suitable for vegetarians and vegans, as many operators can accommodate special dietary requirements with advance notice. Be sure to discuss your needs when booking to ensure the tour meets your preferences.
Do the Tours Provide Transportation to the Starting Point?
Most drinking tour providers will offer transportation to the starting point of the tour. You’ll likely need to inquire about their specific policies, as the level of transportation provided can vary between companies.
Can the Tours Be Customized to Individual Preferences?
Yes, many drinking tour providers allow you to customize the itinerary to suit your preferences. They’ll work with you to create a unique experience tailored to your interests and needs.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tours?
Most drinking tours have minimum age requirements, typically 20 or 21 years old. Some may also have maximum age limits or health/mobility restrictions. It’s best to check with the tour operator about their specific policies before booking.
Worth The Stay
Nagano offers a variety of sake-focused tours that allow you to explore the region’s rich drinking culture. From walking tours showcasing local izakayas and traditional sake breweries to day trips combining cultural attractions like snow monkeys and Zenkoji Temple, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests. Whether you’re a sake enthusiast or simply curious to learn more, these tours provide an immersive and memorable experience in Nagano.