7Nagano, Japan

Nagano, the host city of the 1998 Winter Olympics, is a hub for snow sports in Japan. Its powdery slopes attract skiers and snowboarders from around the globe.

Beyond skiing, the Jigokudani Monkey Park offers a unique sight: wild snow monkeys soaking in hot springs. Traditional onsens (hot springs) and ryokans (inns) add a relaxing cultural experience.