The lake is located in the heart of Suwa and is the largest lake in Nagano Prefecture. Whether walking, cycling, or jogging, the lake provides a relaxing backdrop. In spring, the lake is surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms, while summer sees it lit up by fireworks above. In warmer months, lake activities include pleasure cruises, amphibious bus tours, fishing, and more.In winter, Lake Suwa is home to an extraordinary, naturally occurring event known as Omiwatari (The God’s Crossing). Beneath Lake Suwa are warm hot spring waters that remain unfrozen during the winter months, causing pressurized ice formations to form above the lake.

Takashima Castle was built by Lord Hineno in 1592 and is the highest elevated castle ever constructed in Japan. Known as the “Floating Castle”, Takashima was built on a small island in Lake Suwa that was connected to the shore by only a single piece of land. Today, the lakeshore no longer reaches the sides of the castle, but the gardens and moat still exist.
The Suwa clan ruled the area around Lake Suwa until 1869. In the 1870s, the castle was dismantled by order of the Meiji government, but has since been restored to its original form. The castle is best viewed and photographed in the morning hours and there are English materials available.
It’s open from 9:00 to 4:30pm (5:30pm from April to September). The 1st and 2nd floors serve as a museum and the third floor is an observation deck to view the surroundings.

The highlands area near Mt.Kurumayama and Mt.Washigamine is a short trip from Suwa and contains spacious land with incredible mountain views of both Mt.Fuji and the Japan Alps. Starting at visit with the Kirigamine Nature Conservation Center will provide information on walking trails and the local plants and wildlife. Marshland hiking paths around the national treasure spots Yashimagahara Marsh and Ikenokurumi Odoriba Marsh are a great chance to get outdoors and get active. The large open areas are a natural area for man-made glider planes which can often be viewed in flight. To learn more about the wind-propelled planes check out the Glider Fureai Center. Spring and summer are the best times for flower viewing. Wintertime provides plenty of fun at the Kirigamine Family Ski Resort. These gentle slopes are perfect for the family, and the nearby cross-country courses are often used by Olympians as the high elevation provides excellent training grounds.