Arriving Soon? Pre-Order Your SIM with Free Hotel Delivery!
-
February 20, 2026 at 6:00 pm
Event date:
-
February 23, 2026 at 9:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Nagano Lantern Festival was first held in 2004 to commemorate the legacy of the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, celebrating the city’s unity, peace, and hospitality. Since then, it has become one of Nagano’s most anticipated winter events, symbolizing light, hope, and artistry.
Are you Visiting Japan soon?
Let us make your trip effortless. From tickets and hotels to transport and local guides, we arrange everything for you or your group. Whether it’s a music festival in Tokyo or a business conference in Osaka, our custom travel service ensures you enjoy the event stress-free.
Contact Jasumo Now →Centered around the historic Zenkoji Temple, one of Japan’s most important Buddhist temples, the festival’s colorful illuminations blend spirituality and creativity. The temple’s ancient architecture is transformed by a dazzling array of lights, creating a breathtaking nighttime spectacle.
Each year, local residents, artists, and students participate by designing beautiful kiri-e lanterns—paper artworks cut into intricate designs. These lanterns line the main street leading to Zenkoji, creating a glowing path that welcomes thousands of visitors every February.
Overview
The Nagano Lantern Festival 2026 will take place from Friday, February 20 to Monday, February 23, 2026, illuminating the city for four enchanting nights. Visitors can stroll along Chuo Dori Street, lined with hundreds of hand-crafted lanterns leading up to the majestic Zenkoji Temple.
Each lantern tells a story—crafted with care by local artists, schoolchildren, and volunteers—and the temple itself becomes a canvas of color, lit in red, blue, purple, and green. The visual harmony between traditional craftsmanship and modern illumination makes this event both peaceful and awe-inspiring.
Highlights
- Hundreds of kiri-e lanterns crafted by local artists and students.
- Colorful light displays transforming Zenkoji Temple into a work of art.
- Free admission for all visitors.
- Cultural performances and food stalls enhancing the festive atmosphere.
- Family-friendly event perfect for photography and evening strolls.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Experience a blend of art, spirituality, and tradition in a historic temple setting.
- Enjoy free access to one of Nagano’s most beautiful nighttime events.
- Witness unique kiri-e lantern designs created by the local community.
- The colorful illumination of Zenkoji Temple makes for unforgettable photos.
- Perfect for families, couples, and culture enthusiasts visiting Nagano in winter.
If you’re coming to Japan or already here and need any type of help—from custom tours and experiences to transportation or ticket bookings—just contact us through the Contact Us page on Jasumo.
Schedule
Dates: Friday, February 20 – Monday, February 23, 2026 (4 days)
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM daily
Venue: Zenkoji Temple and Chuo Dori Street
Pricing
Admission Fee: Free for all visitors
Lantern Workshop (optional): May require a small participation fee
Food & Souvenirs: Available for purchase at nearby stalls
Location
Venue: Zenkoji Temple (善光寺)
Address: 491 Naganomotoyoshichō, Nagano, 380-0851, Japan
How to Get There:
From Nagano Station, it’s about a 20-minute walk or a short ride by local bus to Zenkoji Temple. The route is well-marked and lined with shops and eateries, making for an enjoyable walk, especially at night when the lanterns are lit. If you’re driving, paid parking is available near the temple area, though spaces can fill up quickly during the event.
Accommodation Options
Nagano offers a range of accommodations within easy reach of Zenkoji Temple. Visitors can stay at traditional ryokans, modern business hotels, or Western-style hotels located around Nagano Station. Popular choices include Hotel Metropolitan Nagano and Nagano Tokyu REI Hotel, known for comfort and convenience.
Average prices range from ¥8,000 to ¥18,000 per night, depending on your preferences and proximity to the venue. Early booking is recommended as hotels fill up quickly during the festival weekend.
FAQs
Q1. When does the Nagano Lantern Festival 2026 take place?
The festival runs from February 20 to February 23, 2026, illuminating Zenkoji Temple for four nights.
Q2. Is there an admission fee to attend?
No, admission is completely free, allowing everyone to enjoy the lights and lanterns without charge.
Q3. What is the best way to get to Zenkoji Temple?
You can walk 20 minutes from Nagano Station or take a short bus ride directly to Zenkoji. The route is beautifully lit and easy to follow.
Q4. Can children participate in the festival?
Yes, the event is family-friendly, and some lanterns are even designed by local elementary school students.
Q5. Are there hotels near Zenkoji Temple?
Yes, there are many hotels around Nagano Station and Zenkoji, offering a range of prices and styles, from modern hotels to traditional inns.
Planning a Group Trip to Japan?
From corporate teams to friends traveling together, we create tailor-made travel packages. Enjoy VIP access, curated itineraries, and full support from our local experts. Tell us your plans, and we’ll handle the rest.
Contact Jasumo Now →Video
Location
Similar Listings
Add Review
Leave a Reply