Lake SUWA.
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 sometimes displays a special natural phenomenon called "Omiwatari(The God’s Crossing)."
As the lake completely freezes over, temperature differences cause cracks and ridges to form on the ice, creating an impressive and mysterious sight.
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 sometimes displays a special natural phenomenon called "Omiwatari(The God’s Crossing)."
As the lake completely freezes over, temperature differences cause cracks and ridges to form on the ice, creating an impressive and mysterious sight.
Cycling and Jogging Around Lake Suwa
Enjoy a refreshing ride or run along the 16 km path that circles Lake Suwa.
This well-maintained lakeside route offers stunning views of the water and surrounding mountains, making it perfect for both casual joggers and avid cyclists.
Rental bikes are available nearby, and the mostly flat terrain makes the route accessible to all fitness levels.
You can stop at scenic viewpoints along the way or take a break at one of the charming lakeside cafes.
It’s a wonderful way to experience Suwa’s natural beauty at your own pace.
Tateishi Park
Perched on a hillside overlooking Lake Suwa, Tateishi Park offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Nagano Prefecture.
From here, visitors can enjoy stunning sights of the entire Suwa area, including the shimmering lake, surrounding mountains, and vibrant seasonal scenery.
In the evening, the park transforms into a romantic spot, famous for its beautiful night views of the city lights reflected on the water.
The lake view from this park closely resembles scenes from a popular anime movie, drawing many fans from around the world.
Whether you visit during cherry blossom season, on a summer evening, or when the autumn leaves turn red, Tateishi Park promises an unforgettable vista of Suwa’s natural beauty.
From here, visitors can enjoy stunning sights of the entire Suwa area, including the shimmering lake, surrounding mountains, and vibrant seasonal scenery.
In the evening, the park transforms into a romantic spot, famous for its beautiful night views of the city lights reflected on the water.
The lake view from this park closely resembles scenes from a popular anime movie, drawing many fans from around the world.
Whether you visit during cherry blossom season, on a summer evening, or when the autumn leaves turn red, Tateishi Park promises an unforgettable vista of Suwa’s natural beauty.
Takashima Castle
Takashima Castle was built by Lord Hineno in 1592.
Known as the “Floating Castle,” it was originally constructed 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.
The 1st and 2nd floors serve as a museum, and the third floor is an observation deck offering views of the surrounding area.
More about Takashima Castle pamphlet
Known as the “Floating Castle,” it was originally constructed 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.
The 1st and 2nd floors serve as a museum, and the third floor is an observation deck offering views of the surrounding area.
More about Takashima Castle pamphlet
Suwa Taisha (Shrine)
Suwa Taisha is the head shrine of Suwa Shrine that is widespread in Japan. Taisha means Grand Shrine.
Suwa Taisha is the four shrine complex that is grouped to 2 sites, Kamisha and Shimosha. Kamisha consists of Honmiya (main shrine) and Maemiya (former shrine). Shimosha consists of Akimiya (Autumn Shrine) and Harumiya (Spring Shrine).
Honmiya had been worshiped as God of wind, water, agriculture and hunting. Since the Middle Age, many generals in the whole country had been believed in Suwa Taisha as God of war. Because of that, more than 10,000 branch shrines were established all over the Japan.
It is unique that Suwa Taisha has no Honden (the building that normally enshrines a shrine's God) so that Suwa Taisha is designated to National important cultural property.
Official Website
Suwa Taisha is the four shrine complex that is grouped to 2 sites, Kamisha and Shimosha. Kamisha consists of Honmiya (main shrine) and Maemiya (former shrine). Shimosha consists of Akimiya (Autumn Shrine) and Harumiya (Spring Shrine).
Honmiya had been worshiped as God of wind, water, agriculture and hunting. Since the Middle Age, many generals in the whole country had been believed in Suwa Taisha as God of war. Because of that, more than 10,000 branch shrines were established all over the Japan.
It is unique that Suwa Taisha has no Honden (the building that normally enshrines a shrine's God) so that Suwa Taisha is designated to National important cultural property.
Official Website
Kirigamine Highlands
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.
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.
