Compared to Hokkaido, I prefer the lesser-known destination of Nagano...

Japan's winter season, with its long-lasting snow period, sees Nagano, located in the central highlands of the 'Roof of Japan,' as a major snowfall area. Unlike the crowded and chilly Hokkaido, the serene and majestic Nagano is much gentler. Here, you can enjoy skiing, hot springs, and sightseeing just as well. I personally have a strong preference for natural and cultural landscapes and am not very interested in urban shopping. When I first saw these photos, I thought they were so beautiful that I had to visit. For the sake of a few pictures, I went to [Nagano] 🌲 💫 Travel Tips: ✅ Narai-juku: A post town that is more Kyoto than Kyoto itself, perfectly preserving the Showa era's charm with little commercial atmosphere. If you have enough time, you can stay overnight in the town. ✅ Togakushi Shrine: A mystical shrine that enshrines five Shinto shrines. The ancient path leading to the Okusha is lined with cedar trees over 400 years old, which look even more stunning covered in snow. If you want to visit the Okusha, be careful as the stairs and slopes at the end are very slippery. ✅ Jigokudani Monkey Park: You can watch monkeys soaking in hot springs. It is recommended to visit in the very cold winter or early in the morning to see the snow monkeys soaking voluntarily. ✅ Hakuba Village: A former Winter Olympics host site and one of Japan's top three ski resorts. A must-visit for skiing in Nagano, with multiple ski areas and abundant snow trails. Ski enthusiasts should not miss this place. ⭐ Recommended Hot Springs: ♨️ Shibu Onsen: With over 1300 years of history, strolling through the narrow alleys in the evening wearing a yukata and wooden clogs feels like being in the world of Spirited Away. There are nine public hot springs, each with its own unique features (each is said to have different therapeutic effects!). The nearby hot spring town is retro and quiet, with shops and restaurants, so you won't be bored after soaking in the hot springs.