Nagano

Nagano, the capital city of Nagano Prefecture, Host of the 1998 Winter Olympics, An outdoor sports mecca particularly famous for skiing and snowboarding. Matsushiro, the former castle town of the Sanada clan, is located in the southern part of the city. The town retains an historic atmosphere, preserving many samurai residences, temples, and gardens of the feudal period, including the remains of the castle and mansion of feudal Lord Sanada Jumangoku. Often called the "roof of Japan," it boasts the highest mountain ranges in the country.

Azumino Swiss Village

There are large souvenir shops where you can buy sweets, pickles, liquor, and decorations made from local produce. There is also a large cultural hall style performance hall with different activities depending on the season. There is a "horse riding farm" in the Swiss Village for family.

Matsushiro Domain

In the han system, Matsushiro was a political and economic abstraction based on periodic cadastral surveys and projected agricultural yields.

Shibu Onsen

Onsens are an important part of the local culture with there being common onsen bathhouses open for public use where the villagers take their daily soak, and there are numerous foot baths as well.

Togakushi Folk Museum Togakushi Ninja Museum

The museum features a Ninja House, a building which looks ordinary on the outside but is built with many secret doors, passages and contraptions on the inside.

Sanada Treasures Museum

The Sanada Treasures Museum showcases the history of the Sanada clanfrom the beginning of the 17th century to the end of the 19th century. It collects and displays items including samurai gear, such as katana and armor, along with calligraphy works, furnishings, and old manuscripts.