An ancient province of Japan which is now the Prefecture of Nagano. Its abbreviated name is Shinshuu. Shinano was one of Takeda Shingen's centers of power during his battles with Uesugi Kenshin and bordered on the provinces of Echigo, Etchu, Hida, Kai, Kozuke, Mikawa, Mino, Musashi, Suruga, and Totomi. Its capital was located near the present-day city of Matsumoto.