During my 3-week trip to Japan in June 2024, I took a 4-day solo side trip to Nagano — and that’s when I used LocalBound Japan. I handed over almost all the itinerary planning to them, and I genuinely enjoyed every moment of my time in Nagano.

Megumi guided me through Matsumoto, with visits to the city’s castle, a shrine, and charming old streets. We also visited a traditional miso brewery and the beautiful Wasabi Farm. One of the highlights was my stay at Tamano-yu, a small, authentic ryokan in the Asama Onsen area. My room had a private, semi-open-air mineral hot spring bath with a view of the city, in addition to an indoor shower. Since I’m not a big fan of public baths, this setup was perfect. The meals were exquisite, both in flavor and presentation.

My favorite part of the trip was the scenic drive to Tsumago Post Town and Nezamenotoko. Tsumago felt like stepping into a medieval film. I loved strolling through the old town, snacking at little shops along the way. Nezamenotoko was simply breathtaking. It had a quiet, almost sacred atmosphere, with a small shrine perched atop natural rock formations. It was peaceful, hidden, and spiritual. What I appreciated most was that none of it felt touristy. I was told these places are hard to access by public transportation, so having a private guide and car made it convenient and a much richer experience.

My family visited small towns in Japan this time – including Kanazawa, Takayama, and Nagano. We’ve always loved Japan and had already explored most of the major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara in the past. But this experience was something completely different.

In Matsumoto, we stayed for three nights at a private home owned by an elderly couple, arranged by LocalBound Japan. It was warm, authentic, and felt like being welcomed into someone’s daily life.

Megumi guided us through Matsumoto, from Matsumoto Castle to the streets of Nakamachi and Nawate. She also took us on day trips to Azumino’s Wasabi Farm and the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. I was impressed by how respectfully the monkeys and humans coexist there. The park provides only minimal food, encouraging the monkeys to forage naturally. Visitors are strictly prohibited from feeding them, which creates a peaceful, balanced dynamic: the monkeys aren’t afraid of people, yet they aren’t dependent on humans either. I could have spent hours just watching the baby monkeys tumble and play near us while the elders relaxed in the hot spring, eyes closed in total bliss.

We also explored small local restaurants and bakeries where we were often the only non-locals. We tasted Tonkatsu curry, handmade soba, ramen, yakitori, oyaki, and more, but nothing topped the breakfast lovingly prepared by the grandma at our homestay.

LocalBound Japan made this trip truly special – not just a tour, but a deeply personal journey. It allowed us to connect with real people, savor regional flavors, and experience the quiet beauty of Japan beyond the usual tourist path.