Nagano
Once the stage for the 1998 Winter Olympics, Nagano is well known for its mountains, skiing, and snow monkeys. It is home to Jigokudani Monkey Park, where hundreds of macaques bathe in natural hot springs during the cold winter months. Located an hour from the city, you can find Matsumoto Castle, a striking fortress with black and white accents. It is also one of three of Japan's premier castles, alongside Himeji Castle.
