Where the Games Were Played

In 1998, Nagano welcomed the world for the XVIII Winter Olympic Games. Though decades have passed, the city still proudly carries the marks of that moment in history. Beyond the museum, several of the original 1998 Winter Olympic sites venues remain active today, offering visitors a chance to walk through a living legacy.

Start with M-Wave, Nagano’s architectural centerpiece and the main venue for speed skating. Its sweeping roofline still impresses, and the arena remains active today with seasonal events and public skating sessions in winter. Inside, the 1998 Winter Olympic Museum adds extra context and nostalgia, making this an ideal first stop for Olympic history buffs and curious visitors alike.

1998 Winter Olympic Sites Around Nagano City

Next is White Ring, the indoor arena that once hosted figure skating and short track events. Still used today for sports and concerts, it remains a local favorite. While access inside is not always possible, the building stands as a quiet symbol of Olympic elegance, just a short drive from the heart of the city.

Aqua Wing, another distinctive site, originally served as a backup ice hockey venue. Today, it has been transformed into a spacious public pool and sports facility, offering one of the clearest examples of how Nagano’s Olympic investment was built with long-term community use in mind.

Then there’s Big Hat, which hosted the men’s ice hockey final along with several other memorable matchups. Located in southern Nagano, it continues to serve as a venue for local sports, cultural events, and international competitions.

Ahead toward the Montains

Finally, make your way up to Higashidateyama in nearby Shiga Kogen or to Hakuba. They are the sites of the alpine skiing events. Although a bit outside the city center, it remains a well-loved ski destination where visitors can quite literally carve turns on the same slopes once raced by Olympic athletes.

Together, these venues tell a story not just of competition, but of lasting legacy. Visiting them offers a relaxed and meaningful way to connect with Nagano’s Olympic past while seeing how it still shapes everyday life in the city.

eTour de Nagano – Electric Bike Tour