The rising steam from the hot springs in this steep gorge inspired visitors long ago to call this place Jigokudani, literally "Hell's Valley." The indigenous monkeys of Japan, globally known as “Snow Monkeys,” have inhabited the area since ancient times.

This museum operates out of a renovated sake brewery that was built about 100 years ago. The art collection features works by heralded artists of all periods.

The building itself was designed by the world renown architect Kisho Kurokawa of Japan

This National Treasure of a temple is said to have been built some 1,400 years ago. It is famous for promising passage to heaven to all people regardless of religion or sect. The walk from Nagano Station to the temple offers shopping and other entertainment.
The temple is about 1 hour by car from Chalet Shiga

Shigakogen hosted the Alpine skiing, snowboarding and other events at the Nagano Olympics.
On display in the Memorial Hall are the Olympic torch, gold, silver and bronze medals, autographed skiwear, singlets, snowboards, chair skis and more from both the Olympics and Paralympics

Locaterd ocated on the second floor of the Shigakogen Visitors Center 98 in Hasuike, this nature museum introduces the natural environment of Shigakogen