Surrounded by towering peaks on all sides, Nagano Prefecture is known as the “Roof of Japan.” Host of the 1998 Winter Olympics, it is a premier destination for skiing and hiking. However, beyond the slopes, the cities of Matsumoto and Nagano offer profound history, featuring one of Japan’s oldest castles, a spiritual pilgrimage site, and the world-famous snow monkeys.
Matsumoto Castle: The Crow Castle
Matsumoto Castle is a National Treasure and one of the most stunning feudal castles in existence. Unlike many castles that are modern concrete reconstructions, Matsumoto Castle is an original wooden structure, with its main keep dating back to the late 16th century.
It is famously known as the “Crow Castle” (Karasu-jo) due to its unique black wainscoting, which contrasts beautifully with the white upper walls. The view of the black keep reflected in the moat, with the red connection bridge in the foreground and the snow-capped Northern Alps in the background, is one of the most iconic scenes in Japan. Inside, you can climb steep wooden stairs to the top floor for a commanding view of the city.
Jigokudani Monkey Park: Snow Monkeys
In the mountains of northern Nagano lies the Jigokudani Yaen-Koen, famous worldwide for its resident Japanese Macaques (Snow Monkeys). This is the only place in the world where monkeys are known to bathe in hot springs to keep warm.
Watching these wild monkeys with their red faces soaking blissfully in the steaming onsen while snow falls on their heads is a surreal and heartwarming sight. While they are there year-round, the snowy winter months (December to March) offer the most photogenic scenery.
Zenko-ji Temple: A Spiritual Center
Nagano City developed around Zenko-ji Temple, a massive temple complex with a history spanning over 1,400 years. It houses the first Buddha statue ever brought to Japan (though the original is a “hidden Buddha” and never shown to the public).
A must-do experience here is the Okaidan Meguri (Underground Passage). Visitors walk through a pitch-black tunnel under the main hall, searching for the “Key to Paradise” attached to the wall. It is said that touching this key in the darkness grants salvation.
Shinshu Soba and Oyaki
Nagano’s cool climate and clean water are perfect for growing buckwheat, making Shinshu Soba the region’s signature dish. The noodles are firm, aromatic, and delicious whether served cold (zaru soba) or hot.
Another local favorite is Oyaki, a rustic dumpling made from fermented buckwheat dough wrapped around fillings like pumpkin, eggplant, mushrooms, or sweet red bean paste, and then roasted on an iron pan. It’s the perfect comfort food for a hike or a stroll through the temple grounds.
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