When most people plan a trip to Japan, the usual names pop up—Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima. And sure, those cities are incredible, each with its own history, energy, and food scene.

But Nagano? Nagano offers something different.

We don’t have the endless skyscrapers or swarms of tourists. And you won’t find yourself melting in sticky summer heat. What we do have is something richer: ancient legends, breathtaking landscapes, hidden gems, and a deep connection to tradition and nature. The kind of experiences that stick with you long after your trip is over.

From the sacred grounds of Zenkoji Temple, believed to be Japan’s first Buddhist temple, to the ninja lore and forest trails of Togakushi, Nagano is full of places that stir the soul. Marvel at Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s few original castles, or escape into the alpine beauty of Kamikochi, a pristine valley deep in the Japanese Alps. In Azumino, cycle through peaceful countryside fed by crystal-clear spring water, visit authentic wasabi farms, and explore cultural treasures like Hotaka Shrine and Tokoji Temple—a perfect blend of nature, tradition, and tranquility.

Nagano isn’t just a place you visit—it’s a place you feel.

Don’t just take my word for it—scroll through the gallery below and get a glimpse of what’s waiting for you.

(Everything you see below? All from my own camera on the trail—no filters, no stock shots.)