Nagano

Location and Geography

Nagano lies in the central highlands of Honshu and is one of Japan's most mountainous prefectures, bordered by more neighbouring prefectures than almost any other. The Northern, Central and Southern Japanese Alps converge here, framing deep valleys, fast rivers and high plateaus far from any coastline.

Notable Features

The prefecture is a premier destination for skiing, mountaineering and onsen bathing, and hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics. Its cool summers, dramatic ridgelines and forested basins draw hikers and nature lovers throughout the year.

Culture and Heritage

Nagano corresponds to the historic Shinano province and preserves well-kept post towns from the old Edo-era highways that once linked the mountains to the wider country. Buddhist temples, mountain worship and rural craft traditions give the region a deeply rooted cultural character.