Visiting Nagano – End of September

I’m in Japan for a couple of weeks for work and fancy getting out of Tokyo for the weekend. Obviously Nagano has a great rep in terms of Winter sports, but just wondering if anybody has any tips, things to see etc in Autumn  Wouldn’t mind stopping outside of the city if public transport easy enough.  Should be arriving Friday evening, back to Tokyo late Sunday. Any hints on travel about etc. Desperately keen to get out for a walk in the mtns.  Cheers… Oh yeah, any food/bars/hidden gem hotel/Guesthouse tips appreciated!

Hired a car in Nagano and drove up to Togakushi, stayed in Oshi Ryokan.

Went to a random noodle festival, Ninja museum, shrines etc. Walking in various places – cannot exactly remember where but lots of yellow larch and rumours of bears.

Zenkoji temple was a highlight for us. The Ninja museum was unfortunately closed when we were there. Transport wise it’s super easy, just get the Shinkansen from Tokyo. Takes about an hour. Accommodation wise have a look for a Ryokan with an onsen, or near an onsen!

Fancy an Onsen, with work colleague though and there are some things you can’t unsee… :-) cheers for tips though.