Enjoy the charm of Shinshu: The ultimate travel guide to Nagano Prefecture’s historic sightseeing spots and exquisite gourmet food

Nagano Prefecture’s Scenic Views and Traditions: My Discoveries as a Travel WEB Writer in Japan’s 47 Prefectures

Nagano Prefecture’s Superb Views and Traditions

The natural beauty of Nagano Prefecture won my heart

The attraction of traveling in Nagano is, above all, the spectacular scenery. I have visited all 47 prefectures of Japan, but the nature of Nagano Prefecture is exceptional. There are scenery that can only be seen here, such as the Alps mountains, clear streams, and beautiful forests.

Kamikochi, in particular, is one of the places where you can feel the natural beauty of Japan. The scenery of the deep green virgin forest and Taisho Pond in the background is like a painting. The moment I arrived, I could forget the hustle and bustle of the city and feel the power of nature in the deep silence.

The charm of Nagano created by the fusion of tradition and culture

Speaking of Nagano Prefecture, many people probably think of “Shinshu soba”. In fact, I was also looking forward to the delicious soba before visiting Nagano Prefecture. However, when I actually went there, I was able to deeply experience not only the food culture, but also the traditions and history of Nagano Prefecture.

For example, “Zenkoji”. This is one of the leading ancient temples in Japan and is crowded with many believers and tourists. When I visited, I was able to feel the weight of the history and the spiritual energy flowing there.

My recommendation! Things you should definitely experience in Nagano Prefecture

Nagano Prefecture has Karuizawa, which is visited by tourists from all over Japan. The area is known both as a summer resort and as a winter ski resort. In particular, “Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza” is very popular as a spot where you can enjoy shopping and gourmet food.

Nagano Prefecture is also famous for its hot springs. In particular, Shirahone Onsen has a spectacular view from its open-air bath. When I visited in winter, the hot spring experience in the snowy landscape was a blissful time that I could not experience anywhere else.

On average, tourist destinations in Nagano Prefecture are visited by millions of tourists each year. This means that the attractiveness of Nagano prefecture is also proved by numbers.

My personal experience in Nagano Prefecture

Fruits of Shinshu, a captivating fruit experience in Nagano Prefecture

Nagano Prefecture is also famous for producing fruits. During my trip, I visited “Nagano Fruit Land” and experienced fruit picking. In particular, picking apples and grapes was a fresh experience that I could never have had in my city life. The sweetness of the apples straight from the tree and the juiciness of the sun-drenched grapes were exceptional.

A trip to feel history, a visit to Matsumoto Castle

“Matsumoto Castle” is a historical building designated as a national treasure and a symbol of Nagano Prefecture. I also visited this beautiful black castle and was impressed by its magnificence and depth of history. As I walked through the castle grounds, I could imagine the lives of samurai warriors during the Warring States period and how they fought.

Encountering traditional crafts and experiencing the skills of wood carving craftsmen

Nagano Prefecture is also a region where traditional wood carving crafts are thriving. I visited the “Inadani Wood Carving Studio” and was able to see the craftsmen’s handiwork up close. I was touched by the delicate technique and the passion put into each piece. At the workshop, I was able to actually experience wood carving, which is still one of my precious memories.

Through these experiences, I realized that Nagano Prefecture is not just a tourist destination, but a region where history, culture and tradition are alive. It remains in me as a deep fascination that cannot be learned from numbers or guidebooks alone.

Tips and Advice for Traveling in Nagano Prefecture

Plan your trip with the seasons in mind

Nagano Prefecture is a region where you can enjoy the beauty of each season. You can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, a cool plateau in summer, colored leaves in autumn, snow scenery and skiing in winter. When planning your trip, it is a good idea to think about which season you would like to experience Nagano and plan your schedule accordingly.

Value interaction with locals

Tourist attractions are not the only attraction of travel. Deeper understanding and excitement can be obtained by deepening exchanges with local people. The small towns and villages of Nagano Prefecture offer warm hospitality, and we encourage you to attend local events and festivals.

  Enjoy local specialties

Nagano Prefecture has many specialty products. You can enjoy local flavors such as Shinshu apples, soba noodles, and sake. In particular, at the “Nagano Prefectural Industrial Promotion Center”, you can purchase local agricultural products and processed goods and enjoy the fresh taste on the spot.

Efficient transportation in Nagano

Nagano Prefecture is vast, so it can take some time to get around. However, you can move efficiently by using “JR East” and “Nagano Electric Railway”. Check the routes and timetables in advance to plan a smooth trip.

There are so many attractions in Nagano Prefecture that you cannot experience them all in one trip. But with a little planning and ingenuity, you can have the best experience possible. Please refer to my experience and advice and plan your own trip to Nagano.

Nagano Prefecture, Japan Gems

Encounter with Nagano Prefecture, treasure of a lifetime

Of all my trips across Japan, Nagano Prefecture was a particularly impressive place. By getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city and experiencing the rich nature, history, and culture of Nagano, I was able to forget the busyness and stress of everyday life and heal my heart.

Make your Nagano experience your own

The information you get from tourist guidebooks and websites is of course helpful. But the most important thing is to see, feel and experience with your own eyes. Each trip has its own emotions and discoveries. Please refer to my story and create your own Nagano experience.

Nagano Prefecture is a place where you can’t feel all the charms in just one visit. It is packed with charm that will make you want to visit again and again. I also want to visit this beautiful land and enjoy new discoveries and experiences.

I would be happy if you could feel the charm of Nagano Prefecture and my experience through this article. We sincerely hope that your trip will be the best memory.

We hope to see you again in Nagano Prefecture. Have a safe trip!

Historical Buildings Chosen by Kasumi

Nagano Prefecture attracts visitors not only for its natural beauty, but also for its many historical buildings. Here, I would like to introduce 5 historical buildings in Nagano Prefecture that I found particularly impressive. I will also add “kasumi points” to each of them, so I hope you can refer to them.

Matsumoto Castle (Matsumoto City)

   Kasumi Point: Designated as a national treasure, this castle is known as the most beautiful castle tower in Japan. The shiny black exterior is also known as the “Crow Castle,” and its elegant appearance is worth seeing.

Zenkoji Temple (Nagano City)

   Kasumi Point: One of Nagano Prefecture’s representative historical buildings, visited by many believers and tourists. In particular, the main image of Amida Nyorai in the inner sanctuary is rarely shown to the public, and when it is open to the public, it is crowded with many people.

Togakushi Shrine (Nagano City)

   Kasumi Point: Surrounded by beautiful nature, Togakushi Shrine consists of five shrines. Especially in the season of fresh greenery and autumn leaves, the atmosphere becomes more attractive and you can enjoy the mysterious atmosphere.

Historic Buildings in Daimoncho (Nagano City)

   Kasumi Point: In this area that once prospered as a merchant town, old townhouses and buildings still exist, conveying the atmosphere of the past. You can feel the flow of the times just by walking around.

Ueda Castle Ruins (Ueda City)

   Kasumi Point: Known as the castle of the Sanada clan during the Sengoku period, it was used to show Hideyoshi Toyotomi’s power as a feudal lord. Today, the remains and stone walls remain, and you can take a walk while feeling the historical background.

These historical buildings are valuable spots where you can feel the deep history and culture of Nagano Prefecture. When visiting, be sure to refer to “Kasumi Points” and fully enjoy the charm of each building.