Uncover Japan’s Secrets
— One Hike, One Shrine, One Story at a Time
Nagano Private Tours – Explore Japan Beyond the Ordinary
Looking for a deeper way to explore Japan?
Most visitors stick to the well-worn tourist trail—Tokyo, Kyoto, maybe a glimpse of Mount Fuji. However, if you’re craving something more—misty forest trails, quiet mountain villages, and authentic moments with locals—you’ve just found it.
Nagano is only one easy train ride from Tokyo—whether you’re heading to Nagano City or Matsumoto City—making it the perfect starting point for a personal, private journey through Japan.
Why Choose a Private Tour in Nagano?
At Hikyaku Adventures, we offer custom-made private tours for travelers who want to go beyond the ordinary. Based in the heart of Nagano, surrounded by the Japanese Alps, we guide small groups and solo travelers through hidden nature, historic roads, and cultural treasures.
In addition, you’ll enjoy a slower pace, fewer crowds, and experiences that feel authentic—not staged for tourists.
What Does “Hikyaku” Mean?
The word Hikyaku (飛脚) refers to the endurance messengers of Japan’s Edo period—runners who carried important messages across mountains and ancient highways.
Similarly, Hikyaku Adventures is about meaningful journeys through Japan’s natural and cultural landscapes—at a human pace and with a personal touch.
Meet Your Guide
I’m Sjaak (pronounced “Shaak”), the founder, guide, and storyteller behind every tour. I speak Japanese fluently—a skill I developed through years of living in Japan and studying Japanese language and culture at university.
I also speak Dutch and English, and I design every trip to match your pace, interests, and curiosity.
How Our Private Tours Are Different
This isn’t group tourism.
No buses. No flags. No fixed routes.
Instead, we offer custom private tours in Nagano for nature lovers, culture seekers, and anyone who wants to experience a side of Japan most visitors never see.
For example, you might:
Explore ancient shrines in Togakushi’s sacred forests
Hike through scenic trails in the Japanese Alps
Discover historic post towns along old highways
Learn the etiquette of visiting a shrine or enjoying a traditional meal.
Start Your Journey
Curious about the person guiding your adventure?
[Meet Your Guide]
Want to discover what makes Nagano one of Japan’s best-kept secrets?
[Explore Nagano]
Ready to see how it all works?
[How It Works]
Or want to start planning your own unforgettable journey?
[Take The First Step]
Where Is Nagano and How Do You Get There?
Nagano Prefecture is located in the heart of Japan, surrounded by the Japanese Alps. It’s known for mountains, nature, and authentic cultural experiences—perfect for travelers seeking more than the typical tourist route.
What is Nagano Prefecture?
Nagano is similar to a province or state. It includes popular destinations such as:
Nagano City – The prefectural capital, famous for Zenkoji Temple.
Matsumoto City – Known for Matsumoto Castle and easy access to the Japanese Alps.
How to Get to Nagano from Tokyo
Nagano is easy to reach by train from Tokyo. You have two main options:
To Nagano City: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station (approx. 90 min).
To Matsumoto City: Take the Chuo Line Limited Express Azusa from Shinjuku Station (approx. 2.5 hrs).
🚅 Both cities have direct train connections, making Nagano an ideal starting point for your private tour in Japan.