Nagano
Nagano Prefecture is known all over the world because of the 1998 Winter Olympics that were held here. Nagano boasts prime winter sports locations because of the abundance of mountain ranges and cold winter temperatures. Needless to say, the prefecture is one of Japan’s most popular destinations for skiing and other winter sports. This travel guide will help you decide what to see in Nagano!
The snow monkeys are another highlight here because the sight of Japanese macaques enjoying the hot springs never fails to impress. Hiking is another popular activity in Nagano, and during off-season many head to the prefecture to enjoy lower temperatures and abundant nature. It may not be a coincidence that Japan’s highest life expectancies are in Nagano with such a healthy climate.
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Takato Joshi Park | Beautiful cherry blossom viewing spots in Nagano
One of the most impressive cherry blossom spots in Nagano is the Takato Joshi Park. See our beautiful pictures taken this spring.
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Hakuba, Nagano | Resorts including the largest ski resort in Japan
Hakuba in Nagano is one of Japan’s ski areas with several large ski resorts to choose from. The magnificent views and snow conditions make it very popular.
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Matsumoto, Nagano | Remnants of an elegant castle town and magnificent nature
Matsumoto is centrally located in Nagano and is surrounded by the Japan Alps mountains. The city is especially famous for Matsumoto Castle, which is one of Japan’s original historic castles.
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Kamikochi, Nagano | A resort area that is a treasure trove of unspoiled, beautiful wilderness
Kamikochi is a remote mountainous highland in the northern part of the Japanese Alps, which has been preserved in its natural state. Hikers will love the great outdoors feeling they will get here.
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Karuizawa, Nagano | Surrounded by nature and adorable animals
Karuizawa has thrived as a very popular summer resort in Japan since the late 19th century because of its cool and comfy summer climate. This attractive town is a good stop on your way to the Nagano mountains.
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Suwa, Nagano | Beautiful Nature and Eternity of History and Culture
Outdoor activities, natural hot springs, and Japanese-style inns are what attract tourists to Suwa. The lake town is located in Nagano, and perfect as a base for day trips in Nagano prefecture.
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Nagano City | Beautiful nature in each season and historic townscape
Nagano city is a good place to stay as a base for making day trips in the area with its good bus and train connections. What is there to do in the city itself?
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Shiga Kogen, Nagano | People’s Lives in Harmony with Beautiful Nature
The Shiga Kogen Highlands were formed by volcanic activity and have a mountainous landscape. It stands as one of the world’s largest winter resorts and was home to many of the events of the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics.
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Yudanaka, Nagano | Beautiful hot spring resort with a long history that even monkeys visit
Yudanaka, rich in natural hot springs, is located deep in the mountains of the Yamanouchi area in Nagano. Some 200 monkeys live in this area. Watching them bathe just like humans do is fun!
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Yatsugatake, Nagano | Beautiful mountain scenery
Yatsugatake is a mountain range in central Japan where you can enjoy trekking, skiing, and mountain biking. Learn more about this natural paradise in Nagano!