Nagano Station is the main transport hub for the wider Nagano region and a key stop if you’re heading to places like the Snow Monkey Park, Hakuba, or Zenko-ji Temple.

It’s well connected by the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo, which makes it an easy base or transfer point if you’re travelling through the Japanese Alps. The station itself is modern and easy to navigate, with plenty of food options, lockers, and clear signage so even if you’re just passing through, it’s a straightforward place to change trains or grab supplies before heading into the mountains.

Need-to-know tips:

• Direct Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo (around 1.5 hours)

• Buses to Snow Monkey Park and Hakuba leave from outside the station

• Good range of ekiben (train bento) and cafés inside

• Coin lockers available if you want to explore nearby Zenko-ji Temple

• Clear English signage makes transfers fairly easy

• In winter, allow extra time for bus queues and snow conditions