Place of worship • 6-chōme-20-16 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
Saku City in Nagano Prefecture has long been a prosperous region as the core area of Shinshu. The townscape developed around the Saku Plain exhibits a fusion of tradition and modernity.
One of the representative traditional crafts of Saku City is 'Saku Cotton'. This cotton has been produced since the Edo period, known for its soft texture and vibrant, checkered patterns. Skilled artisans continue to inherit the tradition, producing handicrafts such as stoles and bags, which are popular among many.
A must-visit in Saku City is the Togakushi Shrine, located in the forest on the slope of Mt. Togakushi. This shrine is renowned as the birthplace of Shugendo, and visitors can enjoy a tranquil walk along the forest path, calming their minds. Within the grounds, a sacred tree over 400 years old stands tall, conveying the power of nature.
The culinary culture in Saku City is also captivating. Especially, rice and vegetables grown in the fertile soil of Saku Plain retain their freshness and rich flavors. The local specialty, 'Houtou', is a dish with hand-stretched flat noodles and a variety of vegetables, enjoyed by many in Saku City. Additionally, there are numerous restaurants offering menus made with fresh local ingredients.
Saku City is renowned for its charming townscape harmonizing tradition and nature, and its delightful food culture. When you visit, you can enjoy beautiful landscapes and flavors in a relaxed atmosphere.