Category:Nagano Prefecture

Nagano Prefecture is located in the Chūbu region of central Honshū, dominated by the highlands and mountain ranges of the Japanese Alps. The region is characterized by cool climate, forests, valleys, and traditional mountain settlements. Its geography historically encouraged self-sufficiency, strong regional communities, and craftsmanship linked to natural resources.

The city of Nagano became widely known as the host of the 1998 Winter Olympics, but the region’s cultural history extends back to ancient pilgrimage routes and mountain worship. Towns such as Matsumoto, Suwa, and Kiso preserve castle architecture, artisan districts, and deep craft traditions shaped by trade along interior mountain passes.

Culturally, Nagano is associated with woodworking, lacquer, and crafts tied to mountain life and everyday use. The famous Kiso region produced fine woodcraft using hinoki cypress and other locally sourced timbers, while lacquering traditions developed alongside religious, ceremonial, and domestic arts.

Signature Crafts of Nagano Prefecture

• Kiso woodcraft (木曽の木工) – furniture, utensils, and everyday objects shaped from local cypress and mountain woods.
• Suwa lacquerware (諏訪漆器) – lacquer objects featuring deep finishes and refined surface work.
• Matsumoto temari (松本てまり) – hand-wrapped embroidered balls, originally made as gifts symbolizing good fortune.
• Traditional weaving and plant-fiber crafts – reflecting mountain village life and seasonal production.