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Photo: Michael G. Khmelnitsky, Attribution via Wikimedia Commons
This temple, built in the 7th century, is a major pilgrimage site. Its major draw is the hibutsu (秘仏), or hidden Buddha. Its replica statue dating from the 15th century is displayed to the public every six years (the last time was in 2022, one year postponed for COVID19. The next is due 2027). A major renovation of the great inner gate was finished in 2007. You can see a beautiful row of houses along the street. There are restaurants with atmosphere. You can also buy a talisman as a souvenir.
Zenkō-ji is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Nagano, Japan. The temple was built in the 7th century. It is one of the few remaining pilgrimage sites in Japan. The modern city of Nagano began as a town built around the temple.
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長野県立美術館
Reopened in a new building in 2021. The prefecture's premier art museum. The Higashiyama Kaii Gallery showcases the tranquil landscapes (depicting Northern Europe as well as Japan) of one of the masters of nihon-ga (traditional "Japanese-style painting").
西之門よしのや
A sake brewery with attached restaurant and shops, all housed in traditional buildings. The brewery has a small free museum, though it consists of little more than some historic photographs and a view of the stainless-steel brewing equipment.
大室温泉まきばの湯
Has a large outdoor bath (rotenburo) with magnificent views across the Zenkouji Plain to the Northern Alps. Great anytime, but best in winter.
川中島古戦場
Kawanakajima Battlefield is the site of the famous battles fought between Takeda Shingen and Uesugi Kenshin in the 16th century, most notably the fourth battle in 1561. The battlefield was part of the wider plain where the forces of the two warlords repeatedly clashed during the Sengoku period. Today the site is a peaceful park with a shrine, monuments and information panels, including a statue depicting the legendary confrontation between Shingen and Kenshin. Little of the original battlefield survives, but it is an interesting stop for visitors interested in Japan's samurai history.
加賀井温泉 一陽館
This unusual onsen has separate long narrow flowing indoor baths with brown water for males and females, and two outdoor mixed baths. Bring a large towel.
戸隠神社
Togakushi Shrine is a complex of five Shinto shrines in the forested mountains northwest of Nagano, associated with Japanese mythology and the legend of the sun goddess Amaterasu. The shrines are spread across the area, with the Okusha (Upper Shrine) reached by a roughly 2-km approach through an avenue of towering Japanese cedars, many several centuries old. The complex also includes the Chūsha (Middle Shrine), known for its large sacred tree, and the Hokosha (Lower Shrine). Togakushi is also famous for its soba noodles and hiking trails.