Nagano, located in the central part of Japan's main island, is a stunning prefecture offering a wealth of natural attractions, lively cultural experiences and plenty of outdoor activities. From the majestic peaks of the Japanese Alps to its beautiful and serene hot springs, Nagano is a must-visit destination for any traveller looking to experience Japan’s great outdoors.
Nagano is known for its stunning alpine landscapes, a wealth of historical sites and impressive temples, as well as its rich cultural heritage. The city is famous for its world-famous ski resorts, like Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen and Myoko, which offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world. When the snow melts, visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities including hiking, cycling, camping and rafting.
In addition to its stunning natural landscapes, Nagano offers a great range of cultural experiences. It is home to the world-famous Zenkoji Temple, which is one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Japan. The city also has a vibrant nightlife scene featuring a range of bars, restaurants and live music venues.
No matter what kind of experience you are looking for, Nagano has something for everyone. From outdoor adventure to cultural exploration, there is something here for everyone to enjoy.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Hakuba: Located in the Japanese Alps, Hakuba is known for its outdoor activities like skiing and snowboarding. It is home to some of Japan’s best ski resorts and is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
2. Yudanaka Onsen: Found in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, Yudanaka Onsen is a hot-spring resort area with numerous traditional inns, or ryokan. The area is known for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for hot-spring bathing and relaxation.
3. Matsumoto: Located in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, Matsumoto is known as the “castle town” of Japan due to its famous Matsumoto Castle. It’s also home to other attractions like the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum and the Matsumoto Performing Arts Center.
4. Kamikochi: Situated in the northern part of the prefecture, Kamikochi is a popular mountain resort. It is known for its alpine scenery and outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and rafting.
5. Nozawa Onsen: This small village is located in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture and is renowned for its hot-spring resorts. It is known for its traditional architecture, natural hot springs, and its ski resort.
1. Zenkoji Temple: Zenkoji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Nagano City. It is considered one of the most important temples in Japan and is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. It was founded in the 7th century and is the oldest temple in the region.
2. Jigokudani Monkey Park: Jigokudani Monkey Park is a wild monkey park located in the mountains of Nagano. It is known for its hot springs, and is a popular spot for visitors to observe and interact with the wild Japanese macaques that inhabit the area.
3. Matsumoto Castle: Matsumoto Castle is a historical castle located in the city of Matsumoto. It is considered one of Japan’s three great castles and is a popular tourist destination. The castle is over 400 years old and features a traditional Japanese garden.
4. Shiraito Falls: Shiraito Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the city of Fuefuki. It is a popular spot to take photos and enjoy the beauty of nature. The waterfall is made up of several small streams that cascade down a cliff face.
5. Obuse: Obuse is a small town located in the mountains of Nagano. It is known for its traditional Japanese culture and is home to many historical buildings. Obuse is also home to the Hokusai Museum, which showcases works by the famous Japanese artist Hokusai.
1. Shinshu Soba: This traditional Nagano dish is made with buckwheat and wheat flour noodles served in a broth made from dried bonito flakes and kelp. It is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
2. Miso Katsu: This dish is made with a deep-fried pork cutlet that is coated with a thick miso sauce. It is often served with a side of shredded cabbage and is a popular dish in the region.
3. Hida-gyu Beef: This famous beef comes from the Hida region of Nagano and is highly acclaimed for its marbled texture and flavor. It is usually served as steak, sashimi, or shabu-shabu.
4. Koshihikari Rice: This is the most popular variety of rice in Japan and it is grown in the rice fields of Nagano. It is known for its sweet flavor and sticky texture and is often served with a variety of dishes.
5. Atsuage: This is a traditional Nagano dish made with deep-fried tofu which is usually served with a variety of fish and vegetables. It is a popular side dish and is often served with miso soup.