Chubu Wide-area Tourism Portal Site -- Travel to Ten Thrilling Scenic Sites This showcases sightseeing destinations in Japan's Chubu region (the prefectures of Toyama, Ishikawa, Fukui, Nagano, Gifu, Shizuoka, Aichi, Mie, and Shiga).

Nagano Prefecture Hokushin Area

More than 30 spring sources exist in Nozawa Hot Springs, which is said to have been discovered by a monk Gyoki in Nara period. These hot springs are managed and maintained by the residents of the town as their common heritage. There are 13 outdoor baths in the area. Ogama, where the hot spring is used for cooking nozawana leaves is a must-see. Nozawa Hot Spring Ski Resort, where ski resorts in the Shinshu area began, is also a popular destination.