Things To Do
in Chino

A calm lake framed by trees and mountains—excellent for sunrise reflections, autumn colors and snow-covered winter scenes.

Multiple viewpoints on access roads and trails provide dramatic panoramas of the Yatsugatake peaks, ideal for wide landscapes and golden hour shots.

Forest paths, wildflowers in summer and alpine vistas; intimate nature photography opportunities and seasonal textures.

Traditional rural scenes—sutured rice paddies, orchards and quiet streets—best in early morning mist or at sunset.

Small markets and 'Michi-no-Eki' style stalls sell fresh apples, pickles, sweets, and packaged local specialties—great places to sample apple pies, jams and on-the-go snacks.

Seasonal stalls around the lake and highlands offer grilled snacks, crepes, and local dairy treats in summer; try freshly made soft-serve featuring Shinshu fruit.

Remove shoes when entering homes, some ryokan, temples and traditional restaurants; follow host instructions about slippers and entryways.

Keep voices low on trains and in public spaces; avoid loud phone calls and be mindful of personal space.

Bowing is the common form of greeting; a simple bow or polite 'arigatou gozaimasu' is appreciated.

Carry small trash bags as public bins are rare; separate combustibles and recyclables when bins are available.

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes cause confusion; polite thanks are sufficient—exception: some high-end ryokans or guided services may include optional service charges.

Cash (yen) is widely used, especially in rural stores and markets; major cards are accepted at hotels and larger restaurants but bring cash for small shops and buses. ATMs at convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson) accept many international cards.

Cool temperatures with blooming wildflowers and late snow at higher elevations; spring is great for sansai (foraged vegetables) and quieter trails—bring layers for chilly mornings.

Warm days and cooler nights than lowland cities; popular for lake activities, hiking and cycling. Expect more tourists at Shirakaba and book accommodations in advance for weekends.

Crisp air and vivid autumn foliage from late September to November at different elevations—one of the best times for photography and hiking, but temperatures drop quickly after sunset.

Cold with heavy snow in the highlands—good for winter sports and snowy landscapes but roads can be icy; winter tires or chains are required and some smaller roads may close.

A network of hikes across multiple peaks with routes for day hikes and longer ridge walks—offers alpine scenery, rock scrambles and mountain huts.

Prominent peak with trails varying in difficulty; rewarding views over the highlands and into central Nagano on clear days.

Easier, scenic trails around Lake Shirakaba suitable for families and photographers, with wildflowers in summer and colorful foliage in autumn.

Shorter routes through mixed forests and rural valleys near Chino—good for morning or evening walks without committing to long ascents.

The closest regional airport with domestic flights; from Matsumoto you can reach Chino by bus or train in roughly 1–1.5 hours depending on connections.

Major international gateway with many domestic connections; travel to Chino typically involves train to Shinjuku and then JR Chūō Line or limited express services to Chino—total travel 2.5–3.5 hours.

Another international option—longer transfer time to Chino via Narita Express / local trains or airport bus to Tokyo then onward by limited express; plan for 3–4+ hours transit.

An alternative for visitors coming from central Japan; reachable by train and highway buses with longer transfer times to Chino (expect several hours).