Zenko-ji is one of Japan's oldest and most significant Buddhist temples, attracting millions of visitors annually. It houses the first Buddhist statue ever brought to Japan and offers a unique spiritual experience with its underground passageway that symbolizes the journey to enlightenment.

The temple complex includes beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and a lively shopping street leading up to the temple, making it a cultural hub in Nagano.

Famous for its wild Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) that bathe in natural hot springs, Jigokudani Monkey Park offers a rare and captivating wildlife experience. The park is set in a scenic valley surrounded by mountains, especially beautiful in winter when the monkeys soak in the steaming water amidst the snow.

Visitors can observe the monkeys up close in their natural habitat, making it a unique attraction for nature lovers and photographers.

Known as the 'Crow Castle' due to its black exterior, Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan's premier historic castles. It dates back to the 16th century and is a National Treasure of Japan.

The castle features a unique wooden interior, original stone walls, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding city and mountains. It is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers.

Kamikochi is a remote mountainous highland in the Northern Japan Alps, famous for its breathtaking natural beauty and hiking trails. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking pristine rivers, alpine meadows, and stunning mountain vistas.

The area is accessible during the warmer months and offers various trails suitable for all levels, along with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy peaceful nature walks.

Togakushi Shrine is a complex of five shrines located in the forested mountains northwest of Nagano city. It is known for its spiritual significance, beautiful cedar-lined paths, and traditional architecture.

The shrine is also famous for its association with ninja history and offers cultural experiences including local soba noodle tasting and hiking in the surrounding nature.

Nagano is home to several renowned ski resorts such as Hakuba Valley, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding facilities. These resorts attract winter sports enthusiasts from around the globe.

Besides skiing, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, hot spring baths, and après-ski activities in charming mountain villages.

Obuse is a small town near Nagano known for its traditional Edo-period streets, chestnut sweets, and art museums including the Hokusai Museum dedicated to the famous ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai.

The town offers a quaint and cultural experience with historic buildings, local crafts, and seasonal festivals.

Built for the 1998 Winter Olympics, this stadium and surrounding sports park offer facilities for various sports and recreational activities.

Visitors can explore the Olympic legacy, enjoy walking trails, and participate in seasonal events hosted at the venue.

Suwa Taisha is one of the oldest and most important Shinto shrines in Japan, located near Lake Suwa. It is famous for its unique festivals, including the Onbashira Festival held every six years.

The shrine complex is surrounded by scenic nature and offers insight into traditional Japanese religious practices.

Lake Suwa is a scenic lake known for its hot springs, recreational activities, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. It is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and enjoying seasonal events such as the Suwa Fireworks Festival.

The lake area also features parks, museums, and traditional inns offering relaxing stays.