Suwa,
Suwa is a picturesque town located in the Nagano Prefecture of Japan. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the Suwa Lake being a prominent feature. The town is also famous for its historic shrines, such as the Suwa Taisha Shrine, which dates back over 1,200 years.
Visitors to Suwa can enjoy the serene atmosphere, traditional festivals, and delicious local cuisine.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "おはよう" - Good morning
- "こんばんは" - Good evening
- "さようなら" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Suwa
morning:Start your day with a peaceful stroll around Lake Suwa. Take in the serene views of the water and the surrounding mountains. Then, head to Suwa Taisha, an ancient Shinto shrine that holds significant cultural and spiritual importance. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at Okonomiyaki Hirozou 🍳.
afternoon:For the afternoon, visit the Suwa City Museum to delve into the rich history and heritage of the region. Next, take a leisurely walk through Takashima Castle Park and discover the beauty of the castle grounds and gardens. Treat yourself to a delightful lunch at Soba Nagase 🍜.
evening:In the evening, experience the bustling atmosphere of Kamisuwa Onsen area. Indulge in a relaxing hot spring bath and unwind at the Yatsugatake Chushin Kogen National Park. Later, enjoy an authentic izakaya experience at Toriyaki Kashiwaya for a delightful night-out.
Nature & Culture
morning:Embark on an early hike to Mt. Takabocchi, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Suwa and the surrounding landscapes. Afterward, visit the Akiyamago Conservation Forest and immerse yourself in the beauty of the untouched nature. Treat yourself to a delightful breakfast at Cafe & Creperie Fuwari ☕️.
afternoon:Explore the fascinating Takashima Castle and learn about its historical significance. Afterwards, walk through the charming streets of Takashima and browse the local shops for unique souvenirs. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Sankaku.
evening:In the evening, head to the Suwa Lakeside Park for a peaceful sunset experience by the lake. Afterwards, enjoy a delightful dinner at Soba Mansaku 🌅.
Cultural Immersion
morning:Start the day with a visit to the Tateshina Aiichi Museum to appreciate the extraordinary works of local artists. Then, explore the historic Nakamura House to get a glimpse of traditional Japanese architecture and lifestyle. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Cafe de la Ferme 🥐.
afternoon:Learn about traditional Japanese crafts at the Suwa City Museum of Art and Crafts. Afterwards, visit the elegant Takashima Castle and take a relaxing walk around its scenic gardens. Treat yourself to a delightful lunch at Kadoya 🥗.
evening:In the evening, experience Suwa's vibrant nightlife by visiting the local bars and izakayas around the Kamisuwa Onsen area. Be sure to stop by Bar Rururu for a delightful night-out.
Relaxation & Cuisine
morning:Start your day with a rejuvenating experience at Katakura Hall, a renowned hot spring complex where you can relax in the therapeutic waters. Then, take a leisurely stroll through Suwa Sun Beach and feel the refreshing coastal breeze. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Cafe Feuille 🥞.
afternoon:Indulge in a culinary adventure at the Suwa Ohashi Bridge area, where you can savor a variety of local delicacies from street food vendors. Then, take a relaxing boat excursion on Lake Suwa, enjoying the picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes. Treat yourself to a delightful lunch at Sushi Suke 🍣.
evening:For a delightful evening, visit the lively Suwa Lakeside Park and take a leisurely walk along the waterfront. Afterwards, enjoy a memorable dining experience at Hikage Chaya restaurant with stunning lake views.
Suwa Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Suwahime Soba
A specialty noodle dish made with locally grown buckwheat and served with a flavorful dipping sauce. Try it at Soba Dokoro Kaya, a renowned soba restaurant in Suwa.
Must-Try!
Miso Katsu
A crispy breaded pork cutlet topped with a rich miso-based sauce. Visit Misoya for a delicious rendition of this local favorite.
Oshiruko
A sweet red bean soup served with mochi (rice cake). Sample this warm, comforting dessert at traditional tea houses like Oshiruko An.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Kamisha Street Market
Explore this bustling market for a wide array of fresh produce, local snacks, and street food stalls offering delicacies like yakitori (grilled skewered chicken) and takoyaki (octopus balls).
Things to do in Suwa
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Suwa
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!