Walk the Samurai Trail to Narai of a Thousand Houses

Go back in time by walking the Nakasendo Road from Yabuhara over the Torii Pass to Narai, one of the best-preserved sections of this famous trail samurai used for traveling between Edo (old Tokyo) and Kyoto

Nagano’s Quiet Samurai Town

Matsushiro castle in spring

48 Hours in Nagano City

In 1998, Nagano City hosted the Winter Olympic Games and introduced the world to the Japanese Alps, the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, and glorious Japanese powder (or, “japow”). But that isn’t all that the area has to offer. With beautiful Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines in the heart of Japan’s mountains, Nagano City is a hub of spiritual sites and natural splendor. Take a model 2-day trip around Nagano City and enjoy another side of Japan!

Craft Town Matsumoto, From Folk to Contemporary

More than just a castle, Matsumoto has a vibrant craft scene with a strong legacy

From Buddhist Souvenirs to Eclectic Antiques, and with All Kinds of Eateries In-between, Zenkoji Temple’s Naka-mise is a Shopper’s Paradise.

Beautiful wooden buildings and relaxing hot springs are just a part of Yamanouchi’s charm.