Nagano: Alpine Scenery, Snow Monkeys and Onsen
Nagano is Japan's mountain heartland: the temple town of Zenkoji, Matsumoto Castle with its national-treasure keep, the highland resort of Karuizawa, and Jigokudani Monkey Park, famous worldwide for wild monkeys bathing in hot springs. Travelers come in every season for the alpine landscapes.
In Nagano, Halal Gourmet Japan features a cafe at the entrance promenade of Jigokudani Monkey Park (Kanbayashi Onsen) that describes chicken-based ramen and vegetarian menus, a cafeteria with halal options registered at the Suwako Service Area on the Chuo Expressway (Nagano and Nagoya-bound), and Nepalese and Indian restaurants.
For prayer, the listings include Sakishiro Masjid with qibla direction and wudu facilities, the prayer space at Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, and the prayer space at the Suwako Service Area (Nagano and Nagoya-bound) — convenient stops whether you travel by road or rail.
From Zenkoji and Matsumoto Castle to Karuizawa and the snow monkeys, use the Halal Gourmet Japan map to line up meals and prayer along your route and enjoy the Japanese Alps at your own pace.
Content reviewed: August 20, 2026
