Nagano

Nagano Prefecture, known as the "roof of Japan" with its chain of 3,000-meter-class mountains, boasts overwhelming natural beauty. Historically, there is the National Treasure Matsumoto Castle, which preserves the atmosphere of the Sengoku period, and the famous temple Zenko-ji, which has long attracted the faith of ordinary people, where you can feel the breath of deep history and culture. Tourist spots that make use of the natural environment are plentiful too. Kamikochi, a mountain scenic area at 1,500 meters above sea level, and the Jigokudani Monkey Park, known for its "snow monkeys" bathing in hot springs, captivate visitors from around the world. In food culture, "Shinshu soba," nurtured by clear water, is famous nationwide, and each region offers its own distinctive flavors. Apple production also thrives, and simple local dishes such as oyaki are popular too. In winter, you can enjoy powder snow at world-class ski resorts such as Hakuba and Shiga Kogen, and in summer you can enjoy escaping the heat in Karuizawa and trekking, so a variety of activities are available all year round. Famous and hidden hot springs scattered around the prefecture also give visitors blissful relaxation.