Fun Things to Do in Suwa | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Suwa Travel Guide
Quick overview of Suwa with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Suwa! Nestled in the heart of the Nagano Prefecture, Suwa is a charming city known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With its crystal-clear Lake Suwa, surrounded by majestic mountains, this destination offers a serene and picturesque setting for travelers seeking tranquility. Suwa is also famous for its historic Suwa Taisha Shrine, one of the oldest and most revered Shinto shrines in Japan. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local traditions and customs by participating in the annual Onbashira Festival, where massive tree trunks are ceremoniously transported and erected at the shrine. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Suwa has something to offer everyone.
Suwa Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Suwa videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Suwa in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
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![The Street Scenery in Suwa and Okaya City, Nagano | Japan Travel [Street View]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/IrMAkZZEWCI/hqdefault.jpg)
Travel Essentials
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Memory Foam Neck Pillow
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Universal Travel Adapter
Charge your gadgets anywhere in the world with this adapter. It's a must-have for travelers to keep phones and cameras ready to use.
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Packing Cubes
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Apple Air Tag
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3D Eye Mask
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Portable Door Lock
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Foam Ear Plugs
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4 in 1 Travel Dispenser Bottle
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Power Bank
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Compression Socks
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Things To Do In Suwa
Suwa offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. One of the main things to do in Suwa is to visit the Suwa Taisha Shrine, which is one of the oldest and most important Shinto shrines in Japan. This shrine is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere, making it a must-see destination in Suwa.
Another highlight of Suwa is the Lake Suwa, which is the largest lake in Nagano Prefecture. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the lake's shoreline. The lake is also famous for its swan population, and visitors can even take a swan boat ride to get a closer look at these graceful birds.
For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the Suwa City Museum is highly recommended. This museum showcases the rich heritage of the Suwa region, including its traditional crafts, folklore, and archaeological artifacts. It provides a fascinating insight into the local culture and is a great place to learn more about Suwa's past.
Nature enthusiasts will also find plenty to do in Suwa. The Tateshina Plateau is a popular hiking destination, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The plateau is also home to a variety of wildflowers and wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
Additionally, Suwa is known for its onsen (hot springs), and a visit to one of the local onsen is a must-do activity. These hot springs offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, allowing visitors to soak in the healing waters while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings.
In summary, Suwa offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From exploring historical sites such as the Suwa Taisha Shrine and Suwa City Museum, to enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Suwa and the Tateshina Plateau, there is something for everyone in this charming city. Don't forget to indulge in the local hot springs for a truly relaxing experience.
Tours And Activities In Suwa
Check out these Experiences around the Suwa region. Read real reviews and highlights.
Check out Top-Rated Tours and Activities in Kochi Prefecture (State region of Suwa).
Best Time To Visit Suwa
The best time to visit Suwa is during the spring and autumn seasons. In spring, which is from March to May, the weather is mild and pleasant, with cherry blossoms blooming all around the city. This is a great time to visit if you want to experience the beauty of the cherry blossoms and participate in the various Hanami (flower viewing) festivals that take place in Suwa. In autumn, which is from September to November, the weather is also mild and the city is adorned with vibrant fall foliage. The changing colors of the leaves create a picturesque landscape, making it a perfect time for nature lovers and photographers to visit Suwa. It is important to note that Suwa can get quite crowded during the peak cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons, so it is advisable to plan your visit accordingly and book accommodations in advance.
Flight Calendar For Suwa
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Suwa.
Best Areas To Stay In Suwa
Suwa is a beautiful city located in the Nagano Prefecture. It offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors to choose from. Here are some of the best areas for accommodation in Suwa:
1. Suwa City Center: This area is perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the city. It is home to numerous hotels, guesthouses, and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns). Staying in the city center allows easy access to Suwa's main attractions, such as the Suwa Taisha Shrine and Lake Suwa.
2. Kamisuwa Onsen: If you're looking for a relaxing stay, Kamisuwa Onsen is the place to be. This area is known for its hot springs and offers a range of ryokans and hotels with private onsen baths. Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs while taking in the stunning views of Lake Suwa.
3. Shimosuwa Onsen: Another popular area for accommodation in Suwa is Shimosuwa Onsen. This area is famous for its hot spring resorts and traditional Japanese inns. Visitors can unwind in the soothing waters of the hot springs and indulge in delicious local cuisine.
4. Takashima: Located on the eastern shore of Lake Suwa, Takashima is a picturesque area with stunning lake views. It offers a mix of hotels, ryokans, and vacation rentals. Visitors can enjoy water activities on the lake, explore nearby hiking trails, and visit the historic Takashima Castle.
5. Kamisuwa: Kamisuwa is a charming neighborhood located near the city center. It offers a range of accommodation options, including budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses. This area is ideal for those who want to experience local life and explore the city's attractions on foot.
Overall, Suwa has a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveler's needs. Whether you prefer staying in the city center, near hot springs, or by the lake, Suwa has something for everyone.
Hotels Map Of Suwa
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Suwa.
Transportation To Suwa
There are several transportation options to Suwa.
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Suwa is Matsumoto Airport (MMJ), which is about a 1-hour drive away. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Suwa.
2. By Train: Suwa has two train stations - Kami-Suwa Station and Shimo-Suwa Station. You can take a train from major cities like Tokyo or Nagoya to either of these stations. The journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the starting point.
3. By Bus: There are also bus services available to Suwa from various cities in Japan. You can check the bus schedules and book tickets online or at bus terminals.
4. By Car: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and take the Chuo Expressway or the Nagano Expressway to Suwa. The journey time will depend on your starting point.
Once you arrive in Suwa, you can use local buses, taxis, or rental bicycles to get around the city and explore its attractions.
Book Suwa Trip
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Nearby Destination From Suwa
1. Matsumoto: Known for its stunning Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's oldest and most beautiful castles.
2. Nagano: Famous for hosting the 1998 Winter Olympics and surrounded by picturesque mountains, offering great skiing and hot springs.
3. Chino: A charming town known for its beautiful cherry blossoms and the historic Suwa Taisha Shrine.
4. Okaya: Home to the scenic Lake Suwa, where visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
5. Shiojiri: A peaceful city nestled in the Japanese Alps, offering breathtaking hiking trails and a vibrant local food scene.
6. Ina: Surrounded by lush greenery, this town is famous for its delicious apples and stunning natural landscapes.
7. Tatsuno: A historic town known for its well-preserved samurai residences and traditional Japanese architecture.
8. Iida: A picturesque city with a rich cultural heritage, featuring traditional festivals and beautiful mountain scenery.
9. Ueda: Home to the famous Ueda Castle and the birthplace of the renowned samurai warrior, Sanada Yukimura.
10. Komagane: A tranquil mountain town known for its stunning autumn foliage and the popular Komagatake Ropeway, offering panoramic views of the Japanese Alps.