
1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 7 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan worth booking?
1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan is a 6.8-hour experience in Nagano, Japan, from $152 per person. It scores 69 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 7 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 69 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (7)
- Duration
- 6.8 hours
- From
- $152 per person
Walk in the footsteps of Japan’s most celebrated artist, Hokusai Katsushika, on this engaging one-day tour in the quaint, historic town of Obuse. Starting from Nagano Station, you will visit Hokusai’s original studio in Obuse, view his original work at the Obuse Hokusai-kan Museum and finally, view his last and largest remaining ‘in-situ’ artwork – the giant phoenix of Gansho-in Temple. Including plenty of time to explore Obuse for yourself, this tour is designed to introduce you to or further your understanding of Japan’s greatest artist in the very place he walked, worked and produced his final masterpiece.
What you get
About this experience
Walk in the footsteps of Japan’s most celebrated artist, Hokusai Katsushika, on this engaging one-day tour in the quaint, historic town of Obuse. Starting from Nagano Station, you will visit Hokusai’s original studio in Obuse, view his original work at the Obuse Hokusai-kan Museum and finally, view his last and largest remaining ‘in-situ’ artwork – the giant phoenix of Gansho-in Temple. Including plenty of time to explore Obuse for yourself, this tour is designed to introduce you to or further your understanding of Japan’s greatest artist in the very place he walked, worked and produced his final masterpiece.
What's included
Included
- Total Tour Duration inclusive from start to each leg of the tour to end.
- Entry fee for Takai Kozan Museum, Hokusai-kan Museum and Gansho-in Temple
- Transportation fee from Nagano to/from Obuse and all listed destinations
- English-speaking guide
- Lunch (vegetarian options are available)
Not included
- Additional food, snacks & drinks
- Shinkansen / ‘Bullet Train’ tickets to/from Nagano - pricing available online
- Accommodation
What you'll see and do
Kozan Takai Memorial Museum
Led by your guide, you will visit the Takai Kozan Museum including Hokusai’s studio where he worked and taught while in Obuse.
75 minutes here · Admission included
Hokusai-kan
Arrive at the Obuse Hokusai-kan Museum to view the artist's original works. The small museum rotates its exhibitions to highlight different stages of Hokusai’s prolific life including his early focus on ‘ukiyo-e’ to later mastery of styles including ‘surimono’, ‘manga’ and ‘kakemono’.
90 minutes here · Admission included
Obuse-machi
Enjoy lunch at Kurabu. Please note, should Kurabu not be available, we will arrange lunch at a similar restaurant.
60 minutes here
Obuse-machi
Free-time to explore Obuse. Your guide will explain what's on offer and show you were to go or should you wish, stay with you during this time.
45 minutes here
Ganshoin Temple
Head to Gansho-in Temple to see Hokusai's final masterpiece, the painted phoenix on the temple ceiling.
45 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Nagano
The meetup point is in front of the station entrance / exit. Obuse is a small station with only one entrance / exit. Be sure to look for the guide wearing a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour tag and ensure you are there prior to the meetup time as the tour will need to depart by 10:20.
Meeting point
Nagano
The meetup point is inside the station, in front of the Information Board directly across from the Shinkansen / ‘Bullet Train’ ticket gate. Be sure to look for the guide wearing a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour tag and ensure you are there prior to the meetup time as the tour will need to depart by 09:35.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
The meetup point is in front of the station entrance / exit. Obuse is a small station with only one entrance / exit. Be sure to look for the guide wearing a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour tag and ensure you are there prior to the meetup time as the tour will need to depart by 10:20.
Ends at
The meetup point is inside the station, in front of the Information Board directly across from the Shinkansen / ‘Bullet Train’ ticket gate. Be sure to look for the guide wearing a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour tag and ensure you are there prior to the meetup time as the tour will need to depart by 09:35.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Snow Monkey Resorts Tours (Machinovate Japan Ltd.)
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 7 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
4 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
7 verified traveler reviews for 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Obuse tour exceeds expectations
Wonderful day exceeded our expectations. Loved that we learned so much from Kevin who is very knowledgeable and engaging. Obuse and it’s art museums plus beautiful streets, shops and temple made for a memorable experience.
via Tripadvisor
Great Experience
Nadine was a fantastic guide. Really enjoyed her storytelling and she gave us some great recommendations for the evening and the next day that were fantastic!
via Tripadvisor
One of the best tours of my life
My college-aged son is interested in Japanese woodblock printing generally, and Hokusai specifically. This tour exceeded our greatest expectations. Devin was an exceptional tour guide. He had a knowledge and love of woodblock printing that was impressive. He put what we were seeing in context, and gave us a true appreciation of the development of this art over the 18th and 19th centuries. Just by way of background, I lived in Japan for two years, and elsewhere in Asia for 25 (with many trips to Japan). So I know the country reasonably well. And I studied art history at an Ivy League university, so I have some knowledge there.
Response from the operator: Dear Andrew, Thank you for your glowing review! We are glad Devin could make the art and history come to life as you examined Hokusai's work. Most of all, it's wonderful to know you and your son had a memorable experience. We hope to see you again! Snow Monkey Resorts
via Tripadvisor
Nice paced tour of Obuse and bHokusai art and history.
Lovely day exploring Obuse with Dai. He met us at the train station closest to our hotel. The trip was well paced giving us time to explore town, learn about and see the art and final studio of Hokusai. Would recommend if you have time to explore. Bonus for us was the autumn colors
Response from the operator: Dear Cindy, Thank you for your 5-star review! It makes our day to know that you had a great time exploring Obuse with Dai. You certainly chose a great time to visit - autumn foliage season. We hope you visit us again! Snow Monkey Resorts
via Tripadvisor
Great experience with the Obuse Tour
We thoroughly enjoyed our tour of Obuse with Kevin. We benefited from his knowledge of Hokusai and the region. The sites chosen were influential and valuable to experience. The food scene was fantastic with opportunities to experience local specialties. The extra attention getting us to our next train was greatly appreciated. Consider this tour if you love food and art.
Response from the operator: Dear Gloria, Thank you for your fantastic feedback! We're delighted to hear that Kevin's guidance, the food scene, and art were particular highlights of the tour. We hope to see you again on your next trip to Japan! Snow Monkey Resorts
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 6.8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $152 to $23,300
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Snow Monkey Resorts Tours (Machinovate Japan Ltd.), who run 124 experiences we rank across 9 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 66.8 and 2 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Snow Monkey Resorts Tours (Machinovate Japan Ltd.) runsWhy this scores 69
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Nagano.
How much does 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan cost?
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Prices start at $152 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Nagano usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan take?
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Plan for about 6.8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Nagano is not rushed.
Is 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 69 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 7 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Nagano, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6.8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan?
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Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Nagano can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Nagano and add a light layer if any part of the 6.8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Nagano within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Nagano?
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On Outty we rank every Nagano experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include 1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake in Nagano, 1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle, 1-Day Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun in Shiga Kogen Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Nagano?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Nagano?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan?
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Included: Total Tour Duration inclusive from start to each leg of the tour to end; Entry fee for Takai Kozan Museum, Hokusai-kan Museum and Gansho-in Temple; Transportation fee from Nagano to/from Obuse and all listed destinations; English-speaking guide; and Lunch (vegetarian options are available). Not included: Additional food, snacks & drinks; Shinkansen / ‘Bullet Train’ tickets to/from Nagano - pricing available online; and Accommodation. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan?
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The meetup point is in front of the station entrance / exit. Obuse is a small station with only one entrance / exit. Be. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Transportation options are wheelchair accessible; and All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Nagano. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about 1 Day Historic Obuse and Hokusai Mad Man of Art Tour in Japan?
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Across 7 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide, food and drink. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
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