Obuse, Mountain town in Nagano Prefecture, Japan
Obuse is a small town in Nagano Prefecture built across gently rolling terrain with traditional wooden houses lining quiet streets. The core features wide lanes, centuries-old chestnut trees providing shade, and a compact layout that feels walkable from edge to edge.
The town gained recognition in the 1840s when the celebrated artist Katsushika Hokusai spent his final years here after being invited by a wealthy local merchant. During his residence, he produced significant artwork that left a lasting mark on the community.
The town's layout and daily rhythm center around the chestnut trees that have defined the place for centuries. Locals and visitors naturally gather in shaded areas created by these trees, which shape how people move through streets and plazas.
A train on the Nagano Electric Railway connects Obuse directly to Nagano Station, making arrival straightforward. Once there, walking is the best way to explore, and sturdy shoes help on the hilly terrain.
Inside Gansho-in temple, a large ceiling painting created by Hokusai depicts a dragon surrounded by swirling clouds in dramatic motion. The work remains in its original location and draws attention for its scale and the energy of its brushwork.
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