Top 10 things to do in Nakajo Area

  1. Visit Zenko-ji Temple

    Address: 〒380-0851 Nagano, Nagano, Motoyoshicho−491

    Zenko-ji is one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Japan. It is believed to house the first Buddhist statue ever brought to Japan in the 6th century. Visitors can explore the beautiful temple grounds, participate in traditional Buddhist practices, and even try their luck at finding the "key to paradise" in a dark underground passage.

  2. Enjoy the Snow Monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park

    Address: 〒381-0401 Nagano, Shimotakai District, Yamanouchi, Hirao, 6845

    The Jigokudani Monkey Park is home to a group of Japanese macaques who have become famous for their love of hot springs. Visitors can watch the monkeys soak in the hot water and play in the snow, all while enjoying the beautiful natural scenery.

  3. Explore Togakushi Shrine

    Address: 〒381-4101 Nagano, Nagano, Togakushi, Chusha

    Togakushi Shrine is a complex of five shrines nestled in the beautiful Togakushi Mountains. Visitors can hike through the forest to reach the shrines, each of which has its own unique history and significance. The area is also known for its delicious soba noodles, which can be enjoyed at local restaurants.

  4. Take a Stroll through Nakamise-dori

    Address: Nakamise-dori, Nagano, Nagano Prefecture 380-0835, Japan

    Nakamise-dori is a lively shopping street leading up to Zenko-ji Temple. Visitors can browse a variety of shops selling traditional Japanese souvenirs, snacks, and crafts. The street is also home to many restaurants serving local specialties like oyaki (steamed buns filled with vegetables or meat).

  5. Visit the Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum

    Address: 〒380-0825 Nagano, Nagano, Wakasato, 760

    The Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum is a modern museum showcasing a variety of contemporary and traditional Japanese art. The museum's collection includes works by famous artists like Yayoi Kusama and Hiroshi Sugimoto, as well as local artists from Nagano.

  6. Take a Dip in the Hot Springs at Nozawa Onsen

    Address: 〒389-2502 Nagano, Shimotakai District, Nozawaonsen, Toyosato, 7653

    Nozawa Onsen is a picturesque hot spring town known for its relaxing hot springs and beautiful mountain scenery. Visitors can soak in the town's many public baths, or relax in a private hot spring at one of the local ryokans (traditional Japanese inns).

  7. Explore the Historic Matsumoto Castle

    Address: 〒390-0873 Nagano, Matsumoto, Marunouchi, 4 Chome−1−1

    Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan's most famous and well-preserved castles. The castle dates back to the 16th century and is known for its beautiful black-and-white exterior and impressive defensive features. Visitors can explore the castle's many rooms and learn about its fascinating history.

  8. Experience the Thrill of Skiing at Hakuba

    Address: 〒399-9211 Nagano, Kitaazumi District, Hakuba, Hokujyo, 22200-1

    Hakuba is one of Japan's most popular ski resorts, known for its excellent powder snow and beautiful mountain scenery. Visitors can enjoy a variety of ski runs, from beginner to advanced, and take in the stunning views of the Northern Alps.

  9. Try Local Sake at Masuichi-Ichimura Brewery

    Address: 〒381-2241 Nagano, Nagano, Obuse, Saiwaicho, 3−3

    The Masuichi-Ichimura Brewery is a historic sake brewery that has been producing high-quality sake for over 300 years. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery and learn about the sake-making process, as well as sample some of the brewery's delicious sake.

  10. Explore the Beautiful Zen Gardens at Ryoan-ji Temple

    Address: 〒381-0221 Nagano, Nagano, Suzaka, Kashiwajima, 2608−1

    Ryoan-ji Temple is famous for its beautiful zen gardens, which are designed to help visitors achieve a sense of peace and tranquility. The temple's most famous garden is the rock garden, which features 15 carefully arranged rocks surrounded by raked gravel.