Nagano Prefecture, mountainous prefecture in inland central Honshu, is globally known as 1998 Winter Olympics host. While having no World Heritage sites, it attracts numerous tourists with historical structures including nationally treasured Matsumoto Castle and magnificent Japan Alps nature.

Matsumoto Castle, one of 12 existing castle keeps, has beautiful five-story, six-floor keep designated as national treasure. The keep built 1593-1594 represents late Sengoku period castle construction pinnacle, called "Crow Castle" for black lacquered wooden siding. Particularly beautiful against Northern Alps backdrop, it attracts numerous photography enthusiasts.

Zenkoji Temple, non-sectarian temple in Nagano City, has gathered nationwide faith through "Zenkoji pilgrimage" since ancient times. Founded in early 7th century, main hall is designated national treasure. Seven-year gokaicho ceremonies reveal maedachi honzon (standing Buddha) considered copy of hidden Zenkoji Nyorai, attracting numerous pilgrims nationwide.

Karuizawa, international resort developed as summer retreat, has been beloved by foreign missionaries and cultural figures since Meiji period. Old Karuizawa Ginza-dori features stylish cafes and boutiques, with numerous villas and retreats continuing today. Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, popular large outlet mall, combines shopping with nature enjoyment.

Parts of Japan Alps (Northern, Central, Southern Alps) within Nagano Prefecture are beloved as mountaineering and skiing mecca. Kamikochi, representative Central Japan Alpine National Park scenic spot, offers clear Azusa River flows and spectacular Hotaka mountain range views. Views from Kappa Bridge are particularly famous, serving as starting points for numerous tourists and climbers.

Shiga Kogen, Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, and Sugadaira Kogen represent world-famous ski resorts, also used as 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics venues. Particularly Hakuba developed as international ski resort, attracting numerous foreign tourists.

Shinshu soba represents Nagano Prefecture's signature food culture, with cool climate and pure water producing quality buckwheat. Famous production areas including Togakushi soba and Sarashina soba each possess distinctive flavors. Additionally, oyaki, local cuisine wrapping vegetables in wheat flour skin and grilling, varies in ingredients and cooking methods by region.

Apple production ranks second nationally after Aomori Prefecture, particularly known for Shinshu apple quality. Many varieties including Fuji, Tsugaru, Shinano Sweet, and Shinano Gold are cultivated, with sweetness and texture highly valued nationwide.

Shinshu miso represents Nagano Prefecture's signature specialty, comprising about 40% national miso production. Characterized by high koji ratios and long aging periods, it offers deep richness and umami. Shinshu's cold climate suits miso aging, with many traditional miso breweries maintaining conventional methods.