Nagano Prefecture, located in the central region of Japan, is also known as Shinshu, an abbreviation of Shinano Province. It consists of four major blocks: East Shinshu on the Gunma side, South Shinshu on the Aichi side, Central Shinshu on the Gifu side, and North Shinshu Block on the Niigata side. Although landlocked and not facing the sea, the prefecture has many high mountains such as the Japan Alps and Mt. Asama, allowing visitors to enjoy beautiful nature as the seasons change. Nagano Prefecture also has one of the highest healthy life expectancies in Japan. Nagano Prefecture has many sightseeing spots where visitors can experience history and culture. Zenkoji Temple and Matsumoto Castle, designated as national treasures, are structures that have supported people's faith and lives since ancient times. Highland resorts such as Karuizawa and Kamikochi are popular among Western tourists for their cool and refreshing climate. Nagano Prefecture also attracted worldwide attention when it hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics. Winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding are available, and ski resorts in Hakuba Village and Nozawa Onsen Village are famous winter destinations. Nagano Prefecture is close to Tokyo, only about an hour and a half away by Shinkansen bullet train. Nagano Prefecture has many attractions such as mountains, lakes, hot springs, temples, and shrines, allowing visitors to enjoy the charm of nature and the depth of its history.