Nagano City’s Biggest Shotengai

Gondo Street Shopping Arcade, “shotengai”, is a covered pedestrian street in central Nagano City. The street is located near the main train station and Zenkoji Temple. It has long served as a practical part of daily life. Gondo is one of Nagano’s oldest examples, and while it has changed over time, it continues to reflect the habits and pace of the surrounding neighborhood.

The Gondo Arcade first opened in 1961, making it the earliest covered shotengai in Nagano Prefecture. Some have described the current version of the Gondo Arcade as quietly reminiscent of earlier decades. The corridor feels peaceful and “quaint,” with charming side alleys branching off the main walkway. It has an “old-school charm,” offering modest shops, and quiet cafés that reflect everyday life rather than tourist trends. Stepping into Gondo, especially the narrow side streets, gives a subtle sense of what daily urban life was like during the Showa period. During the 1998 Winter Olympics, Gondo saw its busiest days, welcoming a flood of visitors and locals alike as thousands passed through each day.

An easy access to the Snow Monkey Park

Sadly, in the years after the Games, Gondo Street Shopping Arcade had grown quieter. Many longtime shops closed or changed hands, and pedestrian traffic dropped. Despite the decline, the arcade retained its covered glass-roofed corridor. Fortunately, a recent initiative has focused on restoring the appeal of the arcade. This project is part of a broader revitalization plan led by both the city and private groups, aimed at bringing more activity back to Gondo and strengthening its connection to everyday life.

The arcade offers a variety of shops that range from clothing shops, modest eateries to places selling everyday goods. It remains informal and practical rather than polished or tourist-focused, and many businesses reflect the habits and preferences of local residents.

The Nagano Electric Railway line offers easy access to the arcade. This local train runs beneath central Nagano on its way toward the Snow Monkey Park. Just one stop from Nagano Station, Gondō Station is a convenient place to pause before or after the journey to the monkeys, especially for those interested in experiencing a more local side of the city.

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