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M-Wave Nagano Olympic Arena

3.9
·968 reviews·Nagano, Japan

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Ice skating sessions available

CrowdMedium
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エムウエーブ

M-Wave Nagano Olympic Arena

Best Time

Weekends

Ice skating sessions available

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

3.9
(968 reviews)

"A wonderful arena and museum with lots of material on the Nagano 1998 Olympic Games."

Vertical photo
TIP

⛸️ 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!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nagano 1998 Olympic Museum

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

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

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.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Entry & Skating Fun

The M-Wave Nagano Olympic Arena often offers free admission, especially on certain days. Check their website for the schedule! It's a fantastic spot for ice skating and exploring Olympic history.

Olympic History & Arena Access

Dive into the legacy of the Nagano 1998 Winter Olympics with exhibits on medals, gear, and mascots. You can also step inside the impressive arena, boasting the world's largest wooden roof structure.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Ice skating sessions available
Crowd
Medium
When
Check Website Calendar
Why
Potential free entry days
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🙌When Surya Bonaly did the illegal backflip in 1998, Nagano Olympics🙌 #IceSkating #wow #flip #athlete #sport #fyp #makemefamous #foryou
@sportmoments101
245.8K likes • 2.6M views

⛸️ Check Schedule for Skating

Confirm ice skating session times on the official website before your visit. Reddit

💰 Free Entry Days

Look for days with free admission on the M-Wave's website to save money! Reddit

An unforgetabble moment... Sumo at the olympics in Nagano 1998. ✨❄️ #Olympics #Sports #WinterOlympics #Sumo
@olympics
73.5K likes • 3.4M views
#fyp #fypシ #viral #foryoupage #NHL #hockey #extraliga #litvínov #ms #czechrepublic #záruba #commentator #canada #nagano #olympicsgame
@zlutocerny_hokej
30.9K likes • 484.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Walkable from Station

It's a bit of a walk from the station, so wear comfortable shoes. Reddit

📸 Olympic Memorabilia

Don't miss the exhibits on medals, gear, and mascots from the 1998 Games. Reddit

Reply to @jnoubihani no I’m not milking one jacket for content ☹️ #fashion #clothes #streetwear #creative #fashiontiktok #jacket #japan #nagano #olympics
@centrll
23.4K likes • 152.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⛸️ Check Schedule for Skating

Confirm ice skating session times on the official website before your visit. Reddit

💰 Free Entry Days

Look for days with free admission on the M-Wave's website to save money! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkable from Station

It's a bit of a walk from the station, so wear comfortable shoes. Reddit

📸 Olympic Memorabilia

Don't miss the exhibits on medals, gear, and mascots from the 1998 Games. Reddit

🍁 Autumn Colors

Visit in Autumn for stunning views and beautiful surrounding scenery. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.9
(968 reviews)

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

Free admission days
Olympic memorabilia
Impressive wooden roof

What People Dislike

Walk from station

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 ⛸️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

The M-Wave arena is renowned for having the largest wooden roof structure in the world, a significant architectural achievement that draws many visitors. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The M-Wave is a great family destination. Kids will be fascinated by the Olympic museum exhibits, especially the mascots and gear from the Nagano 1998 Games. Reddit The ice skating rink offers a fun, active experience for children (and adults!) of all skill levels. Reddit Remember to check the skating schedule in advance and consider the walking distance from the station when planning your day.

🏛️ History Buffs & Olympic Enthusiasts

For those passionate about the Olympics, the Nagano 1998 Olympic Memorial Museum is a must-visit. You'll find a rich collection of medals, uniforms, and equipment that bring the history of the Games to life. Reddit Don't miss the chance to stand inside the M-Wave arena and marvel at the world's largest wooden roof, a significant architectural achievement from the Nagano era. Reddit

📸 Photography Lovers

The M-Wave offers unique photographic opportunities. The expansive wooden roof structure inside the arena is a standout subject, providing dramatic architectural shots. TikTok The Olympic museum exhibits also present visually engaging elements. Consider visiting during a time when natural light might be optimized, though the arena's scale is impressive regardless of lighting conditions. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Marvel: M-Wave Arena

The M-Wave Nagano Olympic Arena is not just a venue; it's an architectural marvel. Its most striking feature is the world's largest wooden roof structure, a testament to innovative engineering and sustainable design. This expansive roof spans a vast area, creating a unique and awe-inspiring interior space that hosted events during the Nagano 1998 Winter Olympics. The sheer scale and the natural beauty of the wood make it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

Reliving the Nagano 1998 Winter Olympics

The Nagano 1998 Olympic Memorial Museum, located within the M-Wave, is a treasure trove for anyone interested in Olympic history. The museum meticulously preserves the spirit of the Nagano Games, showcasing a diverse collection of artifacts. Visitors can expect to see medals, athlete uniforms, skis, snowboards, mascots, and other memorabilia that tell the story of the athletes and the event. Reddit

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. TikTok+1 The displays offer insights into the challenges, triumphs, and cultural impact of the 1998 Winter Games, making it an engaging experience for all ages. Reddit

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

For a truly interactive experience, the M-Wave Nagano Olympic Arena offers ice skating sessions, typically held on weekends. This is a fantastic opportunity to glide across the same ice that once hosted Olympic athletes, surrounded by the arena's impressive architecture. Whether you're a seasoned skater or a beginner, it's a fun activity for individuals, couples, and families. Reddit

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. Reddit

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.

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