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).

Shiga Prefecture

The Nagahama Bonbai Exhibition began in 1952 is a regular event held in early spring. Bonbai means plum bonsai. However in Nagahama, old plum trees are displayed, including a more than 2m high giant tree and an old plum tree that is older than 400 years old, which cannot be often seen in other areas. You can never grow tired of the exhibition because about 300 bonsai pots that belong to Nagahama city are displayed in turn. The "Night Bonbai" in mid February is fantastic - it is a must-see along with the beautifully lit garden, which is designated as national scenic spot.