Explore the rich history of Okaya City in Nagano Prefecture, which flourished from the late Meiji period to early Showa period (1900s - 1930s), as the global silk capital celebrated abroad as 'the Silk Okaya' and domestically as 'Silk City Okaya' (糸都岡谷). Over the years, the city ”transformed into the ‘Switzerland of the East’” blending precision manufacturing prowess with cultural heritage, to establish the city's timeless legacy.

Villa Azalea is located along the Nakasendo, the mid-mountain road which rose to prominence during the Edo period (1603 - 1867) as one of five main highways connecting Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo). Emperor Meiji traveled along this path on his move from Kyoto to Tokyo to begin his reign in Japan’s modern era. Today, it has become a popular walking trail, attracting wanderers from both Japan and overseas. Okaya City also boasts seasonal attractions such as Tsurumine Park — known for having the best azalea blossoms in central Japan — the Okaya Drum Festival, and the Lake Suwa Fireworks Festival, one of the largest lakeside displays in Japan.