1362 Oshimadamachi, Nagano, 381-2212, Japan
Kawanakajima, ‘the island between the rivers’, was the site of five major battles fought between Takeda Shingen and Uesugi Kenshin from 1553 to 1564. The most violent was the 1561 encounter – it’s on this particular area that the modern Old Battlefield is situated. The battles are a celebrated aspect of Japanese history, and the park features a number of statues commemorating its fighters. Visitors can explore the park’s grassy hills, roam among its cypress groves, or enjoy a quiet picnic by various water features.