Nestled in central Nagano Prefecture, the Suwa region is known for its mystical atmosphere, where history and nature coexist in quiet harmony. At its heart lies Lake Suwa, with sacred views of the Yatsugatake Mountains, and surrounding it are the four shrines of Suwa Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest and most revered Shinto shrine complexes. A 3-day, 2-night journey here invites travelers to experience not only the region’s deep spirituality, but also its soothing hot springs and serene lakeside moments.
Begin your journey by taking the JR Chuo Line to Kamisuwa Station—a comfortable 2.5-hour ride from Shinjuku by express train. Upon arrival, your first stop should be Suwa Taisha’s Upper Shrine (Honmiya). With its solemn wooden architecture, the shrine preserves the spirit of Japan’s ancient nature worship. Surrounded by sacred trees and powerful stillness, the site emanates a divine presence. Symbolic objects such as sacred trees (shinboku) and ceremonial logs (onbashira) lend further weight to its status as one of Japan’s oldest shrines.
Day two is perfect for visiting all four Suwa Taisha shrines: Upper Shrine Honmiya, Upper Shrine Maemiya, Lower Shrine Akimiya, and Lower Shrine Harumiya. Arranged around Lake Suwa, the shrines can be visited in a single day using a car or rental bicycle. Collecting goshuin (shrine stamps) at each stop adds an engaging and uniquely local element to the journey.
Between shrine visits, take a break by the shores of Lake Suwa. A scenic walking path offers peaceful lakeside views and the gentle touch of the wind across the water. In summer, the lake hosts vibrant fireworks displays; in winter, a rare natural phenomenon called Omiwatari—cracking ice believed to signify divine passage—may appear. With art museums and footbaths dotting the lakeside, Suwa blends culture and healing in a truly tranquil setting.
In the evening, staying at a lakeside onsen ryokan becomes one of the highlights of the trip. Suwa has long been known as a hot spring destination, with smooth, alkaline waters that gently soothe the skin. Many inns feature open-air baths with views of Lake Suwa and the starry night sky, offering a serene and restorative experience.
On the third day, be sure to explore the region’s culinary heritage. Savor Shinshu soba, freshwater fish from Lake Suwa, and sample local sake crafted by historic breweries. A special highlight is the Suwa Gokura—a cluster of five sake breweries located within walking distance of one another. Tasting a variety of locally brewed sake adds a rich, sensory dimension to the journey, especially for adults seeking a refined travel experience.
What sets Suwa apart is not the glamour of mainstream sightseeing, but its quiet reverence for tradition, nature, and sacred history. It’s a place where spiritual depth and natural beauty are deeply intertwined. For those seeking a journey that nourishes the soul as well as the body, this three-day retreat offers something more than just travel—it becomes a meaningful personal experience.