
M-Wave Nagano Olympic Arena
Explore Olympic history and marvel at the world's largest wooden roof at the M-Wave Nagano Olympic Arena.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ice skating sessions available

M-Wave Nagano Olympic Arena
Best Time
Ice skating sessions available

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Olympic history and marvel at the world's largest wooden roof at the M-Wave Nagano Olympic Arena.
"A wonderful arena and museum with lots of material on the Nagano 1998 Olympic Games."

⛸️ Check Schedule for Skating
Confirm ice skating session times on the official website before your visit.
💰 Free Entry Days
Look for days with free admission on the M-Wave's website to save money!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nagano 1998 Olympic Museum
Inside the M-Wave Arena
Relive the magic of the Nagano 1998 Winter Olympics with fascinating memorabilia and exhibits.

World's Largest Wooden Roof
M-Wave Arena Interior
Marvel at the engineering feat of the M-Wave's expansive wooden roof, a true architectural wonder.

Ice Skating Rink
M-Wave Arena
Lace up your skates and glide across the ice, enjoying a fun activity with a view of the iconic arena.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry & Skating Fun
Olympic History & Arena Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⛸️ Check Schedule for Skating
Confirm ice skating session times on the official website before your visit.
💰 Free Entry Days
Look for days with free admission on the M-Wave's website to save money!
🚶♀️ Walkable from Station
It's a bit of a walk from the station, so wear comfortable shoes.
📸 Olympic Memorabilia
Don't miss the exhibits on medals, gear, and mascots from the 1998 Games.
Tips
from all over the internet
⛸️ Check Schedule for Skating
Confirm ice skating session times on the official website before your visit.
💰 Free Entry Days
Look for days with free admission on the M-Wave's website to save money!
🚶♀️ Walkable from Station
It's a bit of a walk from the station, so wear comfortable shoes.
📸 Olympic Memorabilia
Don't miss the exhibits on medals, gear, and mascots from the 1998 Games.
🍁 Autumn Colors
Visit in Autumn for stunning views and beautiful surrounding scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the M-Wave Nagano Olympic Arena for its free admission, fascinating Olympic museum, and the impressive architectural feat of its wooden roof. The opportunity to ice skate on weekends is a popular draw, though some note the walk from the station. Overall, it's considered a worthwhile visit for sports enthusiasts and those interested in unique architecture.
"Good museum, different sports and olympic memorial stuff. It's free and you can go to the arena also. Worth to visit."
Sami Helander
"Nice place! So much fun, enjoyed the skating and the view! Recommended to go in Autumn for the beautiful color. Go check the calendar on its website, there are some days where you can get free entrance fee."
Superb Bee
"It took some walking to get there, but the arena and the museum are wonderful. There's a lot of material on the Nagano 1998 Olympic Games (and a little bit on Tokyo 2020 as well), from medals to gear and mascots to clothes. You can also access the interior of the arena, which has the largest wooden roof structure in the world (if I'm not mistaken). Highly recommended to Olympics enthusiasts like myself"
André Martins Ferreira
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The M-Wave is accessible by public transport. It's a walk from Nagano Station, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Some visitors note it takes a bit of walking to reach the venue.
Information on parking availability and fees can usually be found on the official M-Wave website. It's advisable to check in advance if you plan to drive.
Yes, it is possible to walk from Nagano Station to the M-Wave, though it is a considerable distance. Consider public transport options if you prefer a shorter journey.
The M-Wave is served by local bus routes from Nagano Station. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient routes and times.
Generally, major Olympic venues are designed with accessibility in mind. It's best to check the official M-Wave website or contact them directly for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The M-Wave often has free admission, especially for the museum and arena access on certain days. However, ice skating sessions may have separate fees. Always check the official website for the latest information on entry fees and free admission days.
Opening hours can vary, especially for the ice rink which operates on specific schedules. It's crucial to consult the M-Wave's official website for the most up-to-date operating hours for both the museum and the skating rink.
For ice skating, it's often recommended to check the schedule and potentially book in advance, especially during peak times or weekends, to secure your spot.
Yes, the M-Wave sometimes offers free entry days or special events. Checking their official calendar is the best way to find out about these opportunities.
Yes, visitors can typically access the interior of the M-Wave arena to admire its architecture, including the world's largest wooden roof, as part of their visit.
🎫 ⛸️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the Nagano 1998 Olympic Memorial Museum, which features medals, gear, and mascots. You can also access the arena itself to see its impressive wooden roof and, on weekends, enjoy ice skating.
Ice skating at the M-Wave is typically a seasonal activity, often available on weekends during specific periods. It's essential to check the M-Wave's official website for the current ice skating season and schedule.
The M-Wave arena is renowned for having the largest wooden roof structure in the world, a significant architectural achievement that draws many visitors.
Absolutely! The arena's unique architecture, especially the wooden roof, offers fantastic photo opportunities. The Olympic museum also provides many visual elements for memorable shots.
The museum showcases a variety of items from the Nagano 1998 Winter Olympics, including medals, athlete uniforms, equipment, mascots, and historical information about the games.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in most public areas of the M-Wave, including the museum and the arena. However, always be mindful of any specific signage or staff instructions regarding photography, especially during events or in sensitive exhibit areas.
The expansive wooden roof structure inside the arena is a prime spot for impressive architectural photos. The Olympic museum exhibits also offer many visually interesting elements.
Drone usage is typically prohibited inside large public venues like the M-Wave due to safety and privacy regulations. It's best to assume drones are not allowed unless explicitly stated otherwise by venue management.
The M-Wave arena has a large open space, and while it's an indoor venue, the scale of the structure can allow for interesting lighting. The museum areas will have controlled lighting for exhibits.
A versatile lens, such as a wide-angle to capture the scale of the arena, and a standard zoom lens for general shots of exhibits would be useful. A tripod might be restricted in certain areas, so check venue rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Olympic Enthusiasts
📸 Photography Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel: M-Wave Arena
Beyond its impressive roof, the arena's design was optimized for the speed skating events it hosted. The smooth, expansive ice surface, combined with the acoustics of the wooden structure, created a memorable environment for athletes and spectators. Today, the arena continues to be used for various events and recreational activities, including ice skating, allowing visitors to experience its grandeur firsthand.
When visiting, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and the vision behind this iconic structure. The interplay of light and shadow on the wooden beams offers a dynamic visual experience, making it a popular spot for photography.
Reliving the Nagano 1998 Winter Olympics
One of the most talked-about moments from the Nagano Olympics, captured in viral videos, is Surya Bonaly's daring backflip during the figure skating competition. While perhaps not explicitly detailed in every exhibit, the spirit of such groundbreaking athletic achievements is palpable throughout the museum. The displays offer insights into the challenges, triumphs, and cultural impact of the 1998 Winter Games, making it an engaging experience for all ages.
Beyond the specific exhibits, the museum serves as a powerful reminder of the unifying power of sports and the enduring legacy of the Olympic movement. It's a place where memories are rekindled and new appreciation for athletic excellence is fostered.
Ice Skating at the M-Wave
It's important to check the M-Wave's official website for the ice skating schedule as sessions are not continuous and are subject to availability. Rental skates are usually available, making it easy for visitors to participate even if they don't have their own equipment. The experience of skating within such a historic and architecturally significant venue adds an extra layer of enjoyment.
Remember to wear warm clothing, as indoor rinks can be chilly. The atmosphere is usually lively, with music often playing, making it a memorable part of your visit to Nagano.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit