Nagawa, town in Chiisagata district, Nagano prefecture, Japan
Nagawa is a small town in the Chiisagata District of Nagano Prefecture in central Japan, set in a valley surrounded by forested mountain slopes. Narrow roads connect its scattered settlements, which are spread across the valley floor and lower hillsides.
Nagawa took its current administrative form during Japan's local government reforms in the mid-20th century, when smaller villages in the area were merged into a single unit. Before that, the valley was home to separate farming and forestry communities that each developed on their own.
The name Nagawa refers to the river valley that defines the shape of the settlement, pointing to how closely local life follows the land. Seasonal farming and small-scale forestry are visible throughout the area, shaping the rhythm of daily routines.
Nagawa is best reached by car, as public transport connections in this part of Nagano Prefecture are limited and infrequent. Visiting during the warmer months makes it easier to get around, since some of the mountain roads can be difficult in winter.
The Nagawa area is home to hot spring sources that locals have used for generations but that many visitors overlook entirely. These small onsen spots tend to be much less crowded than the better-known hot spring destinations elsewhere in Nagano Prefecture.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
