Suwa Travel Guide

The small town of Suwa is located in the heart of the Japanese Alps. At around 50,000 people, Suwa isn't so large, but the accompanying towns to the north and south, Chino and Okaya make it feel much bigger. In the heart of the valley lies Suwa Lake. There is not much to tell here. Gaudy ferry boats in the form of monstrous swans belch their way to the other side. The lake sediment is fairly polluted from past industrialization, so a swim is highly advised against. With that being said, it is a great place to take a break and enjoy one of the many hundreds of hot springs in the area. Most will run around 500 yen, and you can while away the whole day there if you please. Some are downright amazing, pouring forth water the color of rust, boasting minerals that can purify the skin or a bad hangover.

If you are not yet in need of soothing, head up to one of the many mountain trails for a day hike. Kirigamine Kogen will make you want to strap on a rucksack and hit the trail. It's Shire type rolling meadows mixed with scattered lakes and varied terrain will give any level of hiker a good days memory. If the weather is clear, look to the south and stare at Fujisan framed between the valley's mountains. Come during the third week in March and visit one of the dozen or so sake breweries that open up there doors for tasting and insight into the process that is distinctly Japanese. For 2000 yen, you can sample every kind of sake imaginable and dine of finger foods till you can barely make out you own self in the mirror. Visit the Takashima Castle during the blossom, and eat yakitori under falling sakura.

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