Achi Village in Nagano is an incredible destination that offers something for everyone. From hot springs and shrines to traditional townhouses and gardens.
Discover the history and culture of Achi village.
When you visit Achi Village you will get a taste of the local history and culture. Stroll through the streets lined with traditional townhouses, and explore ancient and vibrant shrines full of stories from Japan’s past. You can also wander around the lush gardens in search of hidden gems like a small waterfall or secret tea houses. When you immerse yourself in this tranquil yet vibrant village, you’ll be sure to leave feeling inspired and well-rested.
Achi Jinja Maemiya; One of the Shrines I Visited
To me, Achi Jinja Maemiya was just perfect. I have to say I felt incredibly lucky. A local seller of ‘locally famous Oyaki’ told me it was the first time in 5 years that this amount of snow had fallen. It made the village and especially the shrine so idyllic to me. The pictures should give you a good indication of how I felt standing there as the only visitor. Imagine quietness with just the sound of a small waterfall in the background. Yes, it is really there.
Some Extra Information about the History of Achi Village
The village has a long history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Jomon period (14,000-300 BCE).
During the Edo period (1603-1868), the area was a center for sericulture (silk production) and the cultivation of silkworms. In the late 19th century, the village became known for its production of indigo dye, and the surrounding area became dotted with small indigo dye workshops.
Today, the village is a popular tourist destination, known for its traditional thatched roof houses and its role in preserving the region’s cultural heritage.
Unfortunately, I did not take a picture myself of the houses, I guess I have started to take them for granted.
Traditional Houses and Gardens – Visit traditional Japanese houses with carefully tended gardens.
In Achi village, it is wonderful just to walk around. Stroll through some of the oldest areas of the village and marvel at the traditional Japanese townhouses. With their wide eaves and many alcoves, they are icons of traditional architecture.
Furthermore, you can explore the manicured gardens lined with cherry blossom trees and admire how the locals blend colors, scents, and shapes to create a unique world inside their own gates. Whether you’re strolling around a small family garden or visiting one of the more elaborate public gardens, you won’t be disappointed!
Discover Nagano’s Countryside: A Nature Adventure
The prefecture (province) of Nagano has astonishing countryside, with rolling hills and snow-capped peaks. You can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of nature – go on a hike and follow the serene streams trickling through the dense forests. As you reach higher grounds, you can take in the panoramic views of mountains that are painted with snow during winter and cloaked in green during summer.
Around Achi village too there are plenty of opportunities for a hike into the mountains. After a long hike, I recommend you reward yourself with a relaxing hot spring bath to conclude your journey!
Relax at Hot Springs – Relax in hot springs that have been welcoming visitors to Achi for centuries!
The hot springs in Nagano are a must-visit for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. These natural thermal baths are renowned for their therapeutic properties and offer a unique way to soak in the beauty of the region.
With various types of hot springs available, including outdoor baths surrounded by stunning scenery and indoor baths with contemporary designs, there’s something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the warm waters and feel your worries melt away as you enjoy the peace and serenity of the hot springs in Nagano.
The many hot spring inns, resorts, spas, and public baths are nestled among scenic landscapes and offer unique ways to relax. You can enjoy one of the most famous Achi hot springs called “Shirakami no yu”, located at the foot of Mt. Shirakamidake which is famed for its view of the Northern Alps.
Onsens are known to be good to relax your body as you soak up the therapeutic qualities of the natural spring water. Shirakami no yu is renowned for being especially good for skin issues such as eczema or rashes!
I myself stayed at the Yumoto hotel. This hotel has a 70’s vibe to it. Probably because it is from the 70s. The rooms are traditional Japanese Tatami Rooms. This means when it is bedtime the furniture gets moved aside for you and the foldable mattresses called futons get installed on the floor.
Yumoto Hotel, Achikawa
For me, the big plus for the hotel was the location and the outside part of its onsen which also includes an infrared wooden sauna. The food and atmosphere of the restaurant were not really my thing, but all in all, I had a great time.
Soar Above the Forest and Witness the Starry Night in Heavens Sonohara, Nagano
Watching the stars from the ropeway at night in Nagano is a truly mesmerizing experience. As you ascend high above the forest canopy, the stars come into view in all their splendor.
The clear night sky provides an unobstructed view of the glittering stars, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the cosmos. Watching the stars from Heavens Sonohara near Achi Village is considered one of the top 3 most beautiful locations to see the stars.
When you stay in a hotel nearby, you can buy tickets for a special service. The service includes the fee for the ski lift to the top of the mountain and being picked up by a small bus from your hotel. They also drop you back after watching the stars. The total activity takes around 2,5 hours including the bus rides.
When you get to the top of the mountain the service is great. You will be able to buy some drinks from vending machines including hot coffee or tea. Also, there is room to hide from the cold in winter and there are even extra thick winter coats available to borrow at no cost.
How to get to Achi Village from Nagoya, Aichi
Achi Village is approximately 160 km from Nagoya, the city where I reside, and can be easily reached by car or train. For those traveling by car, the drive takes about 1.5 hours along the expressway, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Alternatively, visitors can take the train from Nagoya to Iida Station and transfer to a local bus to reach Achi Village. This combination of train and bus is a convenient and efficient way to reach the village, allowing visitors to sit back and enjoy the views while being transported to the heart of Nagano’s natural beauty.
I myself took a bus from Nagoya Stations’ bus center. The bus goes twice a day in both directions. It took a little less than 2 hours and cost 2500 JPY for a one-way ticket. Keep in mind you have to make a reservation.
Other Places to Visit in Nagano
Other than Achi village, I also recommend visiting the famous Matsumoto Castle if you have the chance. This is still about one hour drive from Achi village by car. Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan’s five originally preserved castles and therefore a national treasure.
If you are really up for a drive and want to see some stunning views from more mountain peaks, I recommend driving up to Hakuba. Mostly famous for it’s ski resort, but also great to hike or mountain bike in spring.
Conclusion on Achi Village
If you’re looking for a winter getaway that’s equal parts adventure and relaxation, Achi Village is the perfect destination. Nestled in the heart of Japan’s breathtaking mountain ranges, Achi offers a unique combination of natural beauty, rich history, and soothing hot springs that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.
One of the best ways to explore Achi’s stunning landscape is by taking a hike through the village’s picturesque trails. From snow-covered peaks to tranquil valleys, Achi’s hiking routes offer something for every level of adventurer. And, along the way, you’ll discover charming shrines and historical landmarks that will transport you back in time.
After a day of hiking, there’s nothing better than soaking in one of Achi’s renowned hot springs. With their therapeutic properties and stunning mountain views, these onsens are the ultimate way to unwind and let go of any stress or tension. Whether you prefer a quiet soak in a private bath or a lively conversation with locals in a communal pool, Achi’s onsens have something for everyone.
For travelers looking to make the most of their time in Achi, we recommend spending two days and one night in the village. This will give you plenty of time to explore the trails, visit the shrines, and soak in the onsens, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. And, with a range of accommodation options available, from traditional ryokans to modern hotels, you’re sure to find the perfect place to rest your head after a long day of adventure.
So why not escape the winter blues and experience the beauty of Achi village for yourself? With its perfect combination of activities, history, and relaxation, Achi is the ultimate winter getaway.
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