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A serene lake with a red torii gate in the foreground, surrounded by dense forest. 1
A person in a blue jacket and purple hat walking through a forested area with tall trees and a rocky path. 2
A weasel standing on rocky terrain with sparse vegetation. 3
A person standing on a rocky cliff overlooking a mountainous landscape with a clear sky. 4
A couple standing by a calm lake surrounded by forested mountains. 5
By Omotenashi-travel

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
Free cancellation available
Price is AU$413 per adult* *Get a lower price by selecting multiple adult tickets

Features

  • Free cancellation available
  • 9h
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
  • Selective hotel pickup

Overview

    • Witness vibrant autumn foliage & emerald waters in UNESCO Shiga Kogen highlands
    • Customise your afternoon: explore historic Obuse, Takayama, or Sky Drive
    • Enjoy courtesy vehicle transfers and a local guide for a stress-free day
    • Flexible private itinerary tailored completely to your group's pace
    • Take home gifted digital photos of your group captured throughout the journey

Activity location

    • Nagano
    • Nagano, Nagano, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

    • Nagano
    • Nagano, Nagano, Japan

Check availability

UNESCO Forest & Hidden Nagano: Emerald Lake & Ghibli Onsen

  • Activity duration is 9 hours9h
    9h
  • English

Step from a vivid emerald sanctuary into a nostalgic world of cinematic charm. This pair combines the refreshing energy of the highlands with the lantern-lit, Ghibli-esque atmosphere of a 1,300-year-old hot spring village.

Language options: English
Starting time: 8:30 AM
Price details
AU$414.96 x 1 AdultAU$414.96
Total
Price is AU$414.96
Until Fri, 21 Aug

UNESCO Forest & Hidden Nagano: Emerald Lake & Historic Obuse

  • Activity duration is 9 hours9h
    9h
  • English

Experience the ultimate contrast between Shiga Kogen's pristine wilderness and the refined elegance of Obuse. From a mystical emerald lake to historic art and sake breweries, enjoy a sophisticated blend of nature and culture.

Language options: English
Starting time: 8:30 AM
Price details
AU$412.77 x 1 AdultAU$412.77
Total
Price is AU$412.77
Until Fri, 21 Aug

UNESCO Forest & Hidden Nagano: Emerald Lake & Sky Drive

  • Activity duration is 9 hours9h
    9h
  • English

A premium nature-focused escape. Contrast the quiet serenity of a hidden alpine lake with the dynamic, 360-degree volcanic vistas from Japan’s highest road. It’s a breathtaking journey through the diverse heights of the “Roof of Japan.”

Language options: English
Starting time: 8:30 AM
Price details
AU$412.77 x 1 AdultAU$412.77
Total
Price is AU$412.77
Until Fri, 21 Aug

UNESCO Forest & Hidden Nagano: Emerald Lake & Takayama

  • Activity duration is 9 hours9h
    9h
  • English

Discover Nagano’s best-kept secrets in one journey. Pair the dramatic “Shiga Blue” of Onuma Pond with the rustic charm of Takayama Village’s waterfalls and mountain wineries for a truly authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Language options: English
Starting time: 8:30 AM
Price details
AU$412.77 x 1 AdultAU$412.77
Total
Price is AU$412.77
Until Fri, 21 Aug

What's included, what's not

  • Inclusions
    Private half-day tour
  • Inclusions
    Transport from Nagano Station or preferred location
  • Inclusions
    English-speaking guide
  • Inclusions
    Morning hike to a hidden alpine lake
  • Inclusions
    Fuel Surcharge
  • Inclusions
    Parking Fee
  • Exclusions
    Food and Drinks

Know before you book

    • Not allowed: Pets
    • Not suitable for: People with heart problems

What you can expect

  • Thank you for visiting our page!

    Custom requests and flexible itineraries are warmly welcomed—please let us know your preferences upon booking.

    ■A Genuine Route Designed by Locals

    Step into the pristine wilderness of Shiga Kogen, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve often overlooked by standard tour buses. We’ve designed a seamless private itinerary combining a mystical emerald lake with Nagano’s rich seasonal and cultural highlights. Enjoy a relaxed, stress-free journey far away from the crowds.

    ■Onuma Pond: A Sanctuary of Serenity and Vibrant Seasons

    Onuma Pond offers a deep connection to nature, well off the beaten track.

    • Autumn Foliage & Crisp Seasons: In autumn (September to November), the UNESCO reserve transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of fiery reds and glowing golds reflecting off the water. In summer, it serves as a delightfully cool alpine haven with refreshing mountain breezes.

    • The Emerald Mystery: Walk scenic forest trails to reach this stunning lake, celebrated for its mystical, intensely clear turquoise-blue waters.

    • Alpine Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wild Japanese macaques, elusive stoats, and the iconic Japanese serow along the tranquil pathways.

    ■Your Choice of “Plus-Alpha” Afternoon Experiences

    After your scenic walk around Onuma Pond, personalise your afternoon by selecting one of these local highlights:

    • Obuse Town (Art, Sake & Autumn Chestnuts):

    A charming historic town famous for its chestnut orchards, traditional sake breweries, and the legendary Hokusai Museum. Autumn is peak season for world-class chestnut delicacies, including freshly prepared premium Mont Blanc.

    • Takayama Village (Waterfalls, Vineyards & Secret Onsen):

    Recognised as one of “Japan's Most Beautiful Villages.” Walk behind the dramatic torrent of Kaminari-daki Falls, visit boutique local wineries, or unwind in a secluded hot spring bath.

    • Shiga-Kusatsu Scenic Sky Drive:

    Ascend along Japan’s highest national highway pass up to 2,172 metres. Experience sweeping 360-degree alpine vistas, volcanic landscapes, and crisp mountain air.

    ■Photo Memories for the Whole Group

    On many trips, one person is always left behind the lens. We make sure everyone is in the picture together. Your guide will capture your candid smiles against the emerald backdrop with a dedicated camera, gifted to you digitally after the tour.

    ■Flexible Courtesy Pickup & Seamless Travel

    We offer convenient courtesy pickup and drop-off across Nagano City and neighbouring areas (Yamanouchi, Obuse, etc.). Travelling between destinations? Start at your hotel, enjoy a day of guided exploration with your luggage safely stored in the vehicle, and finish with a drop-off at your next station or accommodation.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    • Nagano
    • Nagano, Nagano, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    • Nagano
    • Nagano, Nagano, Japan