Nagano Central Square is a welcoming public space where both locals and visitors often gather. While it’s a popular gathering spot today, the square first came into the global spotlight during the 1998 Winter Olympic Games, when it hosted the official medal ceremonies. While its Olympic legacy gives the square historical significance, it’s the everyday atmosphere that keeps it alive. Omotesando serves both practical and cultural roles. It connects Nagano Station to Zenkoji Temple, guiding a steady flow of visitors through a mix of shops, cafés, and historical buildings. The street functions as the city’s main ceremonial approach while also supporting daily activity. It is an easy walk from the station. And gives visitors a clear sense of the area’s character within just a few blocks. This approach to Zenkoji is part of the experience. Lined with traditional inns, quaint shops, and cozy cafés, it invites visitors to linger and take part in the local atmosphere.

Zenkoji Temple is one of Japan’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temples. For over 1,400 years, people from across the country have come here to pray, reflect, or simply soak in its peaceful atmosphere. Unlike many temples in Japan, Zenkoji isn’t affiliated with any one Buddhist sect. It welcomes everyone. Its main hall, a designated National Treasure, is awe-inspiring in both scale and serenity. Zenkoji Temple also houses one of the oldest Buddhist statues in Japan, believed to have arrived from India centuries ago. Zenkoji isn’t just a historical landmark, it’s the living heart of the city. Whether you visit for its spiritual depth, rich history, or just a peaceful morning walk, Zenkoji Temple leaves you with the sense that you’ve touched something truly timeless.

Patio Daimon blends Nagano’s historic charm with modern creativity. Made up of carefully restored kura (traditional earthen-walled storehouses),Patio Daimon has been repurposed to give visitors a chance to experience the old town atmosphere in a modern way. One of the highlights here is a well-known oyaki shop, where you can try this local Nagano specialty. These dumplings are filled with ingredients like seasonal vege-tables, sweet beans, or miso, then steamed or baked to perfection. Enjoying freshly made oyaki in the quiet atmosphere of a restored storehouse offers a sim-ple, satisfying way to connect with local food culture.