Obuse is a small town of Northern Nagano prefecture. It is known for being the residence of the famous Japanese painter, Hokusai, who spent his older years in Obuse. The Hokusai museum in Obuse is dedicated to his work while the Takai Kozan museum is dedicated to Hokusai’s patron, the rich merchant Takai Kozan.
Obuse is also an agricultural town known for its chestnuts (kuri 栗), which can be found easily in souvenir stores around the town. The center of the town is picturesque and exceptionally well maintained. Many residences and commerce feature “open gardens”: private gardens opened to any visitor, for free.

Area : Chubu area
Prefecture : Nagano-ken
City : Obuse-machi
District : Obuse