Nagano Prefecture

Nagano Prefecture, located in the heart of the Japanese Alps on Honshu Island, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and cultural aficionados alike. With its majestic mountains, historic sites, and natural beauty, Nagano Prefecture promises a memorable journey through Japan's alpine wonderland.

Its capital city, Nagano, hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics, showcasing its world-class ski resorts like Hakuba and Nozawa Onsen, drawing visitors from across the globe. Beyond winter sports, Nagano's pristine landscapes offer year-round hiking, cycling, and hot spring experiences, including the famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani Monkey Park. The prefecture boasts historical treasures such as Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's oldest surviving castles, and the serene Zenkoji Temple, a revered Buddhist pilgrimage site. Nagano's rural villages, like the traditional thatched-roof houses of Shirakawa-go, provide a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.