When you think of Nagano Prefecture, it’s hard not to imagine its renowned winter resorts blanketed in pristine snow and the breathtaking majesty of the Japanese Alps. While its world-class snow resorts are indeed a must-see, Nagano has much more to offer beyond the slopes.

One of the region’s best-kept secrets is the Suwa area, an often overlooked gem in Nagano that had been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember. This underexplored part of Nagano offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and authentic suburban charm that is waiting to be discovered. read more