About the Cities of Nagano
Nagano Prefecture is made up of a variety of cities and towns, each playing a role in the region’s culture, economy, and daily life. From historical centers and resort towns to rural farming communities, this section offers basic facts and overviews to help you better understand the area's local character.
For some cities—especially Nagano, Ueda, Matsumoto, Nozawa Onsen, Yamanouchi, and Iiyama—I’ve included personal insights and experiences based on my time there. I hope these notes help you get to know these places more deeply and personally.
Important Cities
Nagano City
Population: ~380,000
Area: 834 km²
The capital city of the region, famous for Zenkoji Temple.
Hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics.
Matsumoto
Population: ~240,000
Area: 978 km²
Known for the historic Matsumoto Castle.
A cultural and art center, gateway to Kamikochi.
Ueda
Population: ~160,000
Area: 300 km²
Famous for Ueda Castle and samurai history.
Known for traditional festivals.
Suwa
Population: ~50,000
Area: 193 km²
Located around Lake Suwa.
Famous for its hot springs (onsen) and Suwa Shrine.
Shiojiri
Population: ~70,000
Area: 323 km²
Known for wine production.
An important stop on the historic Nakasendo Road.
Iiyama
Population: ~21,000
Area: 304 km²
Popular for winter sports.
Close to Togakushi and sacred mountains.
Komoro
Population: ~43,000
Area: 86 km²
Known for Komoro Castle and natural hot springs.
Chino
Population: ~54,000
Area: 198 km²
Famous for the Yatsugatake Mountains and hot springs.
Yamanouchi
Population: ~14,000
Area: 240 km²
Home to the Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen-koen).
Famous for Shiga Kogen ski area and many hot springs.
Karuizawa
Population: ~20,000
Area: 104 km²
A popular resort town known for shopping and outdoor activities.
Offers cool summers and skiing in winter.
Nozawa Onsen
Population: ~3,000
Area: 35 km²
A historic hot spring village and ski resort.
Famous for its traditional public baths and festivals.
Ina
Population: ~68,000
Area: 195 km²
An agricultural and cultural center.
Known for historic temples and festivals.
Nakano
Population: ~42,000
Area: 195 km²
Known for agriculture and handicrafts.
Ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
Tsumago (Kiso)
Population: ~300 (in the post town area)
Area: Part of the larger Kiso district (~600 km²)
A beautifully preserved Edo-period post town along the old Nakasendo route.
Saku
Population: ~100,000
Area: 395 km²
An inland city balancing industry, agriculture, and access to the highlands.