Nagano

Getting to Nagano

Nagano is accessible from Tokyo station via the Hokuriku Shinkansen, formerly known as the Nagano Shinkansen. The trip takes anywhere from 80 to 110 minutes depending on the train that is used, but generally the Kagayaki (かがやき) and the Hakutaka (はくたか) services make fewer stops than the Asama (あさま). The fare is ¥8,200 for a reserved seat.

Worth seeing

1. 01
   Zenkōji

   This temple, built in the 7th century, is a major pilgrimage site.

2. 02
   Nishi-no-Mon Yoshinoya
3. 03
   Nagano Prefectural Art Museum
4. 04
   Old Battlefield of Kawanakajima

   Kawanakajima Battlefield is the site of the famous battles fought between Takeda Shingen and Uesugi Kenshin in the 16th century, most notably the fourth battle in 1561.

Things to do

Binzuru (びんずる, 賓頭盧). Nagano's big summer festival, held on the first Saturday in August. Every year, more than 200 groups take part in this festival. They walk and dance through Chuo-dori, clacking together wooden scoops called shamoji.

1. 01
   Kagai Onsen Ichiyoukan
2. 02
   Omura Onsen Makibanoyu
3. 03
   Matsushiro Underground Imperial Headquarters

   Large underground bunker complex built during the Second World War, it was meant to protect the Emperor and the central organs of government, but Japan surrendered before its completion.

Where to eat

Sakura, in the Nishi-no-Mon brewery (above). Most of the items on the menu feature miso (fermented bean-paste) which is made with sake by-products. (For an exotic dessert, try miso ice cream.)

1. 01
   Hungry Caterpillar Cafe
2. 02
   Hanbey
3. 03
   Irohado