Nagano prefecture is located in the middle of Japan which is surrounded by mountains. It is also called Shinshu. Nagano is the major area for winter sports. 18th Winter Orynpic was held at Nagano. Because Nagano is surrounded by mountains which have 2000m to 3000m high, it is called roof of Japan. Pure water of Nagano makes great Soba products. There are many historical buildings, Zenkoji Temple, Matsumoto Castle which are also chosen as National Treasure of Japan.

Nagano

Nagano Basin is the located in north side of Nagano. It contains, Nagano City, Suzaka City and many towns around Shinano River. It is very famous for Apple. Zenkoji temple is the most popular tourist spots in Nagano Basin since Edo period. The temple is also the National Treasure of Japan. Around this area, people produce great Miso. Kawanakajima, one of the most famous battlefield in Japan, is located in this area.

Suwa

Suwa and Matsumoto are located in the middle of Nagano Prifecture. Lake Suwa is the main feature of this area. This area is surrounded by Kita Alps mountains and Tateshina Mountains. Both of mountains are very popular for hiking and climbing. In winter, lake Suwa frozen up completely. Suwa Shirne and Matsumoto Castle are the major historic site in this area. Matsumoto Castle is one of 12 existed remaining castle from Sengoku Period and also chosen as the national treasure of Japan.