This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel.
The number of hostels in Nagano is one of the reasons why many backpackers and weekend travelers choose the city among others. Aside from the fact that it is a great destination to experience Japan's picturesque landscape and scenery, Nagano is absolutely a backpacker-friendly destination. Likewise, these Nagano hostels are not just limited to budget-conscious visitors; tourists who want to experience authentic Japanese culture can enjoy these accommodations.
Similar to its neighboring cities, Nagano is famous for skiing and other outdoor-related activities. During winter, Nagano is a top choice among those who have neither the luxury nor desire to travel far north. There are many skiing areas in Nagano. After your outdoor pursuits -- enjoying snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes -- you can soak in hot springs called onsen. You've probably seen photos of the Japanese macaque that bath in its hot springs.
Nagano is not only great to visit in the winter, but it's also an all-year-round tourist destination. Come during spring and enjoy the blooming sakura (cherry blossoms) backdropped with scenic views of mountains. For autumn, enjoy leaf-peeping in Nagano; summer is also a great time to visit Nagano.
There are plenty of Nagano hostels from which to choose. There are typical youth hostels in Nagano that are perfect for backpackers. Nagano hostels have all the facilities and amenities of the usual hostels you find elsewhere, from dorms and private rooms to common areas and communal kitchen. Additional facilities and amenities offered in some hostels in Nagano include shuttle services, Wi-Fi, and bicycle rentals - be sure to inquire about these at your Nagano hostel prior to your stay.
There are some hostels in Japan that used to be private homes. Now, these type of homes are good alternatives to ryokan (Japanese-style inns) -- they are more affordable and the hosts (who are usually the owners) let you feel at home. Private-homes-turned-hostels are highly preferable if you want to experience Japanese culture from food to the interiors. At affordable rates, you will sleep in a Japanese home, dine on Japanese food, and enjoy Japanese culture with locals. Nagano hostels are scattered but majority of them have excellent locations. Some are located nearby stations, others close to attractions. Take your time checking out these Nagano hostels that perfectly suit your needs.
Written by local expertz for Nagano
vcaulin
