Zenkoji is a famous temple and its main hall is designated as a national treasure. Some say they want to visit Zenkoji-temple at least once in their lifetime. It has had a long history of pilgrimage. After Zenkoji, I'd like you to visit Nagano Prefectural Art Museum. You'll enjoy its architectural beauty and the masterpieces of a Japanese post-war painter, Kaii Higashiyama. Buddhist vegetarian lunch at a temple inn or healthy French cuisine at the museum restaurant is my recommendation.
At your hotel or Nagano Station
We walk along the approach to the main hall of Zenkoji Temple. We go through Niomon Gate and Sanmon Gate. Each of the gates has several things you should pay attention to. At the main hall, you will know how and why so many people have come to worship here. After the main hall, how about strolling around the precinct of the temple? There are some secret places only locals are familiar with. Shopping at Nakamise Dori, the approach to the main hall, is also fun.
You can enjoy the museum architecture and the view of Zenkoji temple from its rooftop. Kaii Higashiyama Art Gallery is the annex of the museum, where you encounter his masterpieces inspired by nostalgic landscapes of Japan, China and Europe.
At your hotel or Nagano Station
guide fee, guide transportation fee ¥300
bus transportation fare (you and guide) ¥380 per person, museum entrance fee ¥700 per person, lunch (if you like) ¥2000-¥3500
Basically, I am available on weekdays. But if you are planning to have a long tour including the weekend, please let me know. I think that I can be flexible. In addition to the guide fee, you are requested to pay my transportation to the meeting spot. Thank you for your understanding.
“Great trip to snow monkeys/ Nagano!”
Emi was a wonderful guide! She is very knowledgeable about the Nagano area. We truly enjoyed our day visiting the snow monkeys. Emi gave me frequent updates on weather, how to prepare, and was available for any questions. We then explored Nagano, ate local food, and went to a sake brewery. This was one of my favorite days in Japan! Thank you, Emi-san for a memorable experience!
Emi F.
(6 reviews)Thank you very much for your wonderful review! I really enjoyed accompanying you. We detoured on the way and I cannot forget the soba lunch with you! Thank you for the warm-hearted memory. I wish you a merry Christmas and a new year filled with good health and happiness.
“Wonderful Tour”
Emi was amazing! I initially booked the incorrect start time and she was more than willing to change it for us. She was thoughtful, well-prepared, and very knowledgeable. She customized the tour to meet our needs. I would highly recommend booking a tour with Emi, you won't regret it!
Emi F.
(6 reviews)Thank you very much for choosing "Nagano Town Walk”. You kindly allowed me to do what I most wanted to do as a local guide. I was "super happy” walking with you two and showing my hometown around. Nothing would be better to me than my guests enjoyed my hometown! I won’t forget our pleasant walks before and after dusk. I sincerely appreciate your high recognition.
Stanley S.
Beautiful Japanese early modern castle, Matsumoto Castle
Customized
“Professional and helpful tour guide”
I hired the service of Emi for a two hours tour of Matsumoto Castle. We are a group of travelers who would like to learn in depth about the castle, focusing on its history, architecture and restoration. I have to say that Emi met our expectations comfortably. She was very meticulous in her planning; she proposed a detailed itinerary that includes info such as which parts of the castle is more interesting and which part is less crowded. She gave a good explanation about the history and restoration process using old pictures of the castle that she printed out in advance. Her English is also very good, loud and clear to understand. She's very friendly and prompt in her response, and she continue to reply our queries even after the tour. I will definitely hire her service again if I have a chance to visit the Nagano region in the future.
Emi F.
(6 reviews)Hello Stanley, Thank you very much for taking time to write a good review on me. I understand that you have been busy operating your tours. I was very happy to be with you and your friendly customers on April 10th. Although the half of them had to turn back halfway because of the accident which occurred in another group, the rest of them who reached the top of the donjon enjoyed a fine view, the robust structures of the ceiling and the story of the goddess of 26 nights I narrated. In spite of the unexpected incident, you led the customers professionally, and your customers looked very satisfied with your services. I hope I can work with you again in the future. Congratulations on your hard work. Regards, Emi