Omi(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Makishima Village, the top boutique stay is Makishima Forest Cabin, a charming wooden lodge blending traditional Japanese architecture with modern comfort. Located near the Mount Myōkō trailhead, it offers serene mountain views and access to forest walks, hot spring baths, and stargazing. The hosts share local stories about snow monkeys and onsen culture, making it ideal for travelers seeking authentic rural Japan. Organic breakfasts feature regional ingredients like wild mushrooms and chestnuts.

The best area for lodging is Upper Makishima, nestled at the foot of Mount Myōkō. This quiet zone offers clean air, easy access to hiking trails like the Birch Forest Path and Glacier Lake Trail, and is home to several eco-friendly cabins and family-run inns. Many accommodations feature private onsen baths and panoramic mountain views. With minimal light pollution, it's perfect for night sky viewing and peaceful retreats.

Winter in Makishima Village shines with snow-covered onsen tours and snow monkey watching. Visit the Myōkō Onsen Street to soak in open-air baths surrounded by snow-laden pines—a true "snow bath" experience. Just 30 minutes away, Shimosuwa Snow Monkey Park allows visitors to observe wild Japanese macaques relaxing in natural hot springs, one of Japan’s most iconic wildlife spectacles. Wear thermal layers and non-slip shoes for safety.

Savor Nagano specialties like purple sweet potato tempura, made from locally grown tubers, and wild fern miso soup, crafted from seasonal foraged greens. At Yama no Mi Restaurant, enjoy handmade buckwheat noodles served with mountain spring water—refreshing and flavorful. During spring, book a bamboo shoot feast; villagers harvest fresh shoots daily and prepare them on-site, offering an unforgettable taste of terroir.

Yes, Makishima Village is highly family-friendly. Facilities like Mount Myōkō Children’s Nature Classroom offer interactive programs in plant identification and insect observation. Many lodgings provide free child stays, cribs, and storybooks. Gentle forest paths, such as the stroller-accessible trail near the village center, allow safe walks where kids can feed deer (under supervision). Evening events include starlight storytelling sessions led by elders, sharing ancient folk tales.

From Tokyo Station, take the JR Shin'etsu Main Line to Matsumoto Station, then transfer to a Nagano Electric Railway bus bound for Makishima Village—about 4 hours total. For scenic routes, drive via the Jōshin-Etsu Expressway, taking 3.5 hours. Stop en route at Iida Pass to enjoy views of autumn foliage and mountain vistas. Book bus tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.

Autumn transforms Makishima Village into a breathtaking canvas of red and gold. Highlights include the Crimson Falls Trail and the Thousand Cedar Grove Path, where maple and ginkgo trees blaze in vibrant hues. From late October to early November, the Myōkō Valley glows under sunlight reflecting off rivers. At Ootaki Bridge, enjoy panoramic views of the colored forest. Many inns offer autumn photography tours with professional guides to capture the perfect moment.

Engage in hands-on traditions like woodworking workshops, crafting bamboo baskets or chopsticks using local timber. Try washi paper-making, where you learn traditional techniques from artisans using bark pulp. During summer, join the Bonfire Festival, featuring traditional taiko drumming and rice offerings at the Inari Shrine, celebrating agricultural heritage and community bonds.

The onsen in Makishima Village are weakly alkaline carbonated springs, rich in minerals beneficial for skin and joint health. At Myōkō Onsen Inn, the outdoor baths are built atop natural rocks, surrounded by untouched forest—ideal for immersive relaxation. Some spas incorporate herbal steam rooms and heated stone beds, known as "forest healing" therapy. After soaking, enjoy a cup of yuzu honey tea made from local produce.

Top hikes include the Mount Myōkō Trail, a 2.5-km moderate climb with stunning views of Lake Suwa and Mount Asama. Another favorite is the Glacier Lake Loop, a 3-km trail circling a mirror-like alpine lake framed by evergreens. Signposted paths provide info on flora and geology. Bring a map and headlamp—some sections lack cell service. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers alike.