Nagano Photo Gallery - Shopping

Main roads leading up to Japanese temples are typically adorned with shops selling local delicacies. Nagano is no exception, where the Zenkoji Nakamise Street is a prime shopping destination. Getting here is fairly easy, although it's an almost 2km walk up from the main railway station but there are plenty of shops along the way to keep your eyes busy.

Covered shopping arcades are a typical feature in Japanese cities. Gondo Shopping Street just off the main street was quiet when I arrived.

After the short detour, I returned back to the main street to continue towards Zenkoji Temple.

Do venture in some of these small shops to explore their souvenirs, such as these small snacks and desserts.

Sake is a famous product in the Nagano area thanks to its clear spring water and quality rice. The Nishinomon Yoshinoya Sake Brewery just off the shopping street was founded in the 17th century. They have a shop with free tasting and the cherry blossoms outside looked very nice as well.

A famous local souvenir is shichimi, which blends 7 spices together and has a long history dating back to the Edo period. Yawataya Isogoro Company's history goes back to the mid-18th century, when a merchant started selling shichimi at Zenkoji Temple in 1736. 6 of the ingredients can be produced locally, while the last ingredient, dried mandarin orange peel, would be imported from the Kansai area. It is added to traditional foods such as soba and rice for an added kick.