At last, on April 1, 2024, the Lake Suwa Cycling Road has been completed. The route circles Lake Suwa for about 16 km. This lake has long been loved by local people. I remember when I was in sixth grade, my friends and I rode our bikes around the lake for the first time. I think many locals have their own first-time Lake Suwa cycling stories. Now that the path has been newly improved, it should be easier to ride and offer lovely scenery. I’m getting more excited about sunny weekend rides! #LINEBREAK###"No way, I’m not ready to own a bike yet…" "What kind of bike should I get now?" If you’re wondering that, or asking "What’s an electric-assist bicycle like?", why not take this chance to rent a bike around Lake Suwa and enjoy a relaxed ride with your family or friends? ※Please check each provider’s website for closing days and business hours. ・Activity Base Cogue ・JBT Suwa Rent-a-Cycle ・Lake Suwa Rental Cycle ・SUWA Glass Village #LINEBREAK###Electric-assist bicycles make climbing hills easy! You can even ride to the famous Tateishi Park and to Kirigamine Highland, a pride of Suwa, by bike!!! With the completion of the Lake Suwa Cycling Road, please consider bringing your own bike to ride around the lake or renting an electric-assist bicycle to challenge the full loop of Lake Suwa and Kirigamine Highland! If you get tired, there are parks, cafes, and footbaths♪ I don’t think many places in Japan are blessed with such facilities. Cafes and parks along cycling routes are common, but footbaths are rare, I think. If you bring a towel, you can use a footbath easily. It will blow away your fatigue♨ Also, do you know about Swaichi? If you cycle around Lake Suwa and take photos of three spots in Suwa, Shimosuwa, and Okaya with your smartphone, then go in person to the tourist information centers at kamisuwa station, shimosuwa station, or okaya station and show the three photos, you will receive a Swaichi certificate and a commemorative badge (badge color cannot be chosen). Try this challenge with your children or friends. It’s a great way to mark a Lake Suwa circuit and make a memory with Swaichi! ※Photo courtesy of Activity Base Cogue The seventh photo is my favorite scenic spot!!! See if you can find it!

Nagikama Shrine⛩ The other day I visited Nagikama Shrine on Kirigamine for the first time. Last year I heard about Nagikama Shrine, which had replaced its wooden torii with a stone monument, and I had planned to visit after the snow melted. A passing comment from my wife, who loves Kirigamine, finally prompted us to go. As someone who loves the Onbashira festival, I’ve grown fond of visiting shrines, and I had long wanted to see Nagikama Shrine, so I took my camera and headed for Kirigamine at last. We parked in the lot below the ski area and followed directions toward the Glider Museum, but unsure of the way and hesitating, I spotted a small sign in front of the museum reading Nagikama Shrine 0.5 km and followed it. It felt a bit farther than expected. Together with my wife and our two children, we walked for several minutes, enjoying Kirigamine’s nature, until we saw the stone monument marking Nagikama Shrine. As a shrine, a torii would feel more fitting, but the stone monument had its own charm. The approach was neatly covered with wood chips, making for a very pleasant walk. When we reached the small shrine, the view took my breath away. It was a scene that excited me like I hadn’t felt in a long time. The clear weather that day only amplified the spectacle. Below stretched the Suwa Basin, the serene Lake Suwa sat beautifully, the Central Alps rose ahead, the Northern Alps to the right, the Southern Alps to the left with sacred Mt. Fuji beside them, and Yatsugatake behind to the left. A shrine that offers a view of so many mountains at once may be rare in Japan, I thought.🏔 As a self‑declared Seeker of Suwa’s Best Views, this vista immediately made my list of top spots. Tateishi Park offers a sweeping view of the Suwa plain and is very scenic, but Nagikama sits at a higher elevation and has an indescribable beauty. I felt it would be a shame to keep this to myself, so I’m sharing it here. The shrine’s goshuin (stamp) is newly available, so anyone touring Suwa’s shrines or visiting Kirigamine should definitely stop by. If the weather is clear, you won’t regret it! ・Enshrined deities: Takeminakata no Okami, also known as Osuwa‑sama: god of martial valor and abundant harvests ・Oyamatsumi no Okami: god of industry and maritime affairs, and further revered as the ancestral deity of sake brewing ・Ashinazuchi no Okami and Tenazuchi no Okami ⇐ Kushinadahime: parents of Kushinadahime, wife of Susanoo no Mikoto A nagikama (a sacred implement shaped like a sickle) discovered at the ruins of the former Misayama is dedicated here. After the main pillars for the Onbashira are selected, the nagikama is hammered onto those pillars. Curiously, this practice occurs only on the Onbashira of Suwa Taisha Upper Shrine. The nagikama has a shape resembling a rooster’s head and is considered one of Suwa Taisha’s sacred treasures. The nagikama is enshrined inside the hokora, so please take a look along with the spectacular view. Suwa Taisha also offers nagikama amulets♪

Big NEWS!!! The “Gokuraku Set” from Suwa Gokura has been renewed and will be on sale from April 1, 2024🍶!!! The previous set let you enjoy tastings of four to five kinds of sake at each brewery and included a special drawstring pouch and glass. This hugely popular offering has reopened with a refresh!!! In the renewed version, each of the five breweries adds an original special sticker, and the stickers come on backing cards so the collection becomes like a goshuincho (shrine-stamp book) marking visits to all five breweries! It also supports inbound foreign tourists: as a purchase bonus you get access to a digital map in Japanese, English, and Chinese. This digital map even includes sightseeing information around Kamisuwa Station and locations for evacuation and disaster preparedness!!! It’s been greatly upgraded! And for lovers of sake🍶 and stickers, it’s irresistible♪ After your trip, you can relive the memories with your five-brewery sticker book! The new Gokuraku Set is renewed from April 1, 2024, priced at 3,000 yen including tax, and available for purchase at the Suwa City Tourist Information Center inside Kamisuwa Station!!! Local residents and travelers to Suwa alike—please take this opportunity to enjoy it!

As many of you know, Lake Suwa is famous for its omiwatari, but are you also aware of another mysterious natural phenomenon called yosehyo? Lake Suwa often experiences strong winds in winter, and yosehyo occurs when ice that has formed but not completely frozen cracks and the ice sheets are driven by strong winds onto the shore. This phenomenon appears on large lakes and does not occur in constantly flowing rivers. The ice sheets can look like huge shards of glass, piling up in layers to create a magical scene. The ice also looks especially beautiful when it reflects sunlight. Take a walk and photograph the scene, or experience the enchanting winter of Lake Suwa while running or walking. The omiwatari has not appeared for six years, including last winter. Neither yosehyo nor omiwatari is guaranteed to appear every year. That is why the Suwa Tourist Association streams live video on its website during the winter. We strongly recommend checking those live streams before you visit. ◎ Also, even if the lake is frozen, walking on the ice is extremely dangerous because you could fall into Lake Suwa. Please follow proper manners and view the ice from a safe location.

It is a large drum at the Suwa Grand Shrine in Shinshu Suwa. In addition to the size, the gorgeous pattern on the body is worth seeing. This kind of attention to detail is Cool Japan. Why don't you visit once?

Hello! This is the Suwa Tourist Association. Suwa City in Nagano Prefecture sits at the heart of Nagano Prefecture. The area offers beautiful natural scenery such as Lake Suwa and Kirigamine, along with rich history you can experience at sites like Takashima Castle and Suwa Grand Shrine. At Cool Japan Video, we share recommended sightseeing spots and the latest information about Suwa City, so please stay tuned! ◆◆About Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture Suwa City has a population of about 47,000 and is roughly a two-hour drive from the Tokyo metropolitan area. The Suwa Grand Shrine Upper Shrine and Lower Shrine, said to be one of Japan’s oldest shrines, attracts many visitors year-round. In the Edo period the city prospered as the castle town of the Takashima Domain, and in the Meiji period it grew into a global center of the sericulture industry. ◆◆Tourist Attractions in Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture ◇Suwa Grand Shrine This shrine is the head of Suwa Grand Shrine sites across Japan. The Upper Shrine is divided between Honmiya (Main Shrine) in Suwa City and Former Shrine in Chino City, while the Lower Shrine consists of Autumn Shrine and Harumiya in Shimosuwa Town, forming a two-shrine, four-shrines configuration. Built in the architectural style known as Suwa-zukuri, the shrine buildings are designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan, and the shrine forests are prefectural natural monuments. A popular sightseeing course is the pilgrimage visiting the four shrines known as the “Shisha Mairi.” ◇Takashima Castle and Takashima Park Built about 420 years ago, the castle is nicknamed the “Floating Castle of Suwa” because Lake Suwa’s waters once served as its moat. The present castle tower welcomes many visitors as a museum and observation deck. Takashima Park inside the castle grounds is also a popular cherry blossom viewing spot. ◇Lake Suwa Located almost at the center of Nagano Prefecture, Lake Suwa is the largest lake in Shinshu with a shoreline of about 16 kilometers. The lakeside offers pleasant walks and plenty to see, including the Harmo Museum of Art and SUWA Glass Village, one of the largest glass museums in Nagano Prefecture. ◇Kami-suwa Onsen This hot spring on the shores of Lake Suwa ranks among the nation’s top in daily spring output. A large number of hotels, ryokan, minshuku, and day-trip hot spring facilities allow visitors to plan their stay as they like. ◇Tateishi Park Perched on the hillside, the park overlooks Lake Suwa below. There’s even local talk that it inspired a movie setting. Tateishi Park is selected among the 100 Best Sunset Points in Shinshu and included in the New Three Major Night Views and Night View 100 selections. ◇Kirigamine Highlands Alpine plants color the highlands through the seasons. The panoramic views of Mount Fuji, the Alps, and the Yatsugatake Mountain Range provide unforgettable scenery. Kirigamine Ski Area within the highlands offers winter sports. ◇Nagano Prefectural Kirigamine Nature Conservation Center This prefectural visitor center in Yatsugatake Chushin Kogen National Park presents photos and panels to learn about the plants, animals, and history found on Kirigamine. ◇Suwa Gokura (Five Breweries of Suwa) Thanks to the spring water that wells up from the Kirigamine Highlands, the clear air, and the cool climate, Suwa City’s sake ranks among the top in Japan. Five breweries—the Suwa Gokura—stand in the city, and brewery-hopping tours to sample each sake are popular. ◆◆Local Specialties of Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture Suwa City produces a wide range of local specialties, including quince (marmelo) products, river fish products, sake, kanten (agar), and Shinshu miso, all grown and made locally. These items are known for their high quality and are highly regarded not only in local markets but across Japan. ◆◆Festivals and Events in Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture ◇Onbashira Festival at Suwa Grand Shrine This traditional ritual of Suwa Grand Shrine has been handed down for over 1,200 years and takes place every seven years in the years of the Tiger and Monkey. During Onbashira, sixteen fir trees over 17 meters tall are raised by hand at the four corners of the shrine buildings. The next festival will be held in 2028. ◇Suwa Lake Festival Fireworks Display on Lake Suwa Held annually on August 15, spectacular fireworks launched from platforms set on Hatsushima on Lake Suwa paint the lake with brilliant color. This is one of the nation’s largest fireworks festivals, attracting about 500,000 spectators each year. ◆◆Sharing Tourist Information about Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture Suwa City is a region rich in charm woven from its history, nature, and culture. Visit Suwa City to immerse yourself in Japanese history, surround yourself with great nature, and enjoy moments of pure bliss. At Cool Japan Video, we will continue to share recommended information about Suwa City, so please look forward to it.

It's Hoha-maki season!! "Hooba maki" is a Japanese confectionery made by wrapping bean paste in a rice cake made by kneading rice flour, wrapping it in magnolia leaves, and steaming it. In Kiso, it has been made since ancient times as a celebratory mochi for the Dragon Boat Festival, which is held on June 5. It is made using twigs with several leaves attached to one tree as it is, so it has a different appearance and is appreciated as a Souvenirs. It is sold at many confectionery stores from mid ~ end of May every year. There are also people who come from far away in search of hooba rolls. It is available until mid-July, so if you come to Kiso this season, please try it at least once! Please refer to the following for Kiso dealers. It is also Publication on the seasonal Information on the Home page "Kiso Valley Rippu", so please take a look. [Dealer] ♦ Shiojiri City Tea House "Kodemari" 0264-34-3072 　　　　Roadside Station "Kiso Narakawa" 0264-34-3888 　　　　Tezukara 0264-34-3236 ♦ Kiso village Kitahara Confectionery 0264-36-2069 　　　　Buckwheat 0264-24-0188 　　　　Roadside Station "Kiso River Headwaters Village Kisomura" 0264-36-1050 ♦ Kiso town Roadside Station "Hiyoshi Kiso Koma Kogen" 0264-23-3644 　　　　Sweets Tsukasa Taguchi 0264-22-2023 　　　　Omuraya 0264-22-2841 　　　　Orihashi Confectionery 0264-22-2421 　　　　Confectionery 0264-22-2134 　　　　Sweets Priest Horaiya 0264-22-2372 　　　　Confectionery Brewery Yoshishiro 　　　Ohashi Confectionery 0264-22-4800 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　0264-22-2413 　　　　Roadside Station "Kiso Fukushima" 0264-21-1818 　　　　Roadside Station "Sangaku" 0264-46-3677 　　　　Farmer's Market "Saisaikan" 0264-42-1360 ♦ Otaki village Himeya 0264-48-2020 ♦ Agematsu town Agematsu town Specialty Products Development Center Use Union 0264-52-1505 　　　　Washin 0264-52-5588 　　　　Cafeteria Nakamura 0264-52-2183 　　　　Hokodo 0264-52-4648 ♦ Okuwa Village Roadside Station "Okuwa" 0264-55-4192 　　　　Yoneko Okuwa 0264-55-3633 　　　　Michikusa 050-2006-2025 　　　　Traditional Japanese straw raincoat 0264-55-4380 　　　　Wood sawing village 0264-55-2900 ♦ Nagiso Town Toyama Confectionery 0264-57-2209 　　　　　Tsutaya Confectionery 0264–57-2069 　　　　　Ebiya 0264-57-3054 　　　　　Sawadaya 0264-57-2272 　　　　　Chokane Sawadaya Tsumago 0264-57-3268 ♦ Nakatsugawa City Roadside Station "Shizumo" 0573-75-5255

【Ontake Ropeway】 This season's Ontake Ropeway is scheduled to operate from April 25 Thursday ~ November 10 Sunday in 2024. You can take a capsule-shaped gondola to Elevation 2,150m and take a scenic aerial walk for about 15 minutes Fun If you're lucky, you might be able to see a sea of clouds like the one in the photo! Fun gourmet food such as Unkai curry and Saiun soda at the summit station observation café "Oyama Ochaya"! ♦ Kiso how to enjoy the ropeway is Publication in the trip idea of the Tani and Rippu HP. It is a collaboration article with skima Shinshu. Please take a look! ♦ Flights are subject to suspension due to weather conditions. Please see "Ontake Ropeway" or contact us at the Phone number below. ℡：0264-46-2525 Ontake Ropeway 〒397-0101 Kiso Town, Kiso-gun, Kiso-gun, Nagano Prefecture Sandake 1

【Nagiso Town】Momosuke Bridge With a total length of 247m, it is one of the largest wooden bridges in Japan. It is a suspension bridge built by Momosuke Fukuzawa for the development of hydroelectric power generation. It has been designated as an important cultural property of Japan as a modernization heritage. A powerful bridge that looked very good in the blue sky on this day. Not only the retro feeling, but also the view from the bridge is the best and recommended photo Spot!

How do you do! This is the Iijima Town Tourism Association. Nagano Prefecture Kamiina County Iijima is a town of about 8,900 people located in the center of the southern Inadani Valley of Nagano Prefecture. With the Central Alps to the west and the Southern Alps to the east, it is a city where you can see the two Alps. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will continue to provide Recommendations and Latest Information on Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture, so thank you! ◇◇What is Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture? Iijima Town has two famous fireworks shops nationwide. "fireworks" is familiar to Iijima townspeople, with many fireworks launched throughout the year, such as the "Senninzuka Underwater fireworks Tournament" in Spring, the "fireworks at events" in the summer, the "Dedication Smoke Fire" every week in September ~ October in autumn, and the "New Year's Eve New Spring fireworks festival" on New Year's Day. In addition, craftsmen have inherited "Straw work" as a traditional culture since ancient times. Straw work made in Iijima Town is famous throughout Japan, and it is responsible for making Making ring-shaped bales of rice for sumo wrestling and Sacred straw ropes for Famous shrines. In addition, Iijima Town has been attracting attention as a comfortable town to live in in recent years, and the number of immigrants is increasing. ◇◇Introduction of sightseeing spots in Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture 【Mt. Karakasa】 It is a mountain with an elevation of 1542 meters, and two mountain trails were developed in 2013. From the Observation decks and the summit, you can Unfolds a spectacular view of the Southern Alps. 【Campsite in Iijima】 There are three campsites in Iijima, so please enjoy the campsite that suits your purpose. ・Senninzuka Park Campsite It is a natural park located in the Nanakubo district of Iijima Town, and is full of activities to enjoy the rich nature such as camping, standup paddleboarding, fishing and trekking. ・Inaka no Kaze Campsite Agricultural experience, beetle hunting, and other experiences of Nature can be experienced. ・Yodagiri Park Campsite Sports facilities include tennis courts and swimming pools. The natural water "Kosumo no Mizu" that springs in the park was selected as one of the 15 best and secret waters in Shinshu. 【Roadside Station Hananosato Iijima】 Freshly picked local vegetables are lined up and you can enjoy your meal. It overlooks the Central Alps and the Southern Alps. [Roadside Station Tagiri no Sato] There are many products that are full of the blessings of Iijima's nature, and you can feel the charm of "Minami Shinshu Iijima". Soft serve ice cream in the take-out corner is also popular. ◇◇Specialty products of Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture Alps Salmon, a large rainbow trout raised in the clear water of the Alps Fresh Water, is a delicious dish with a firm fat. In addition, there are many Soba restaurants lined up in the town, and you can eat authentic Handmade Soba noodles. ◇◇Introduction of festivals and events in Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture 【Shinshu Ijima Wind Road Wind Chime Festival】 This event was recognized by Guinness World Records in 2023 for the largest number of wind chimes on display. In the venue, 10,000 wind chimes played a cool sound. In addition, there are many food stalls lined up in the venue, and guests who match the concept appear every year on a special stage. 【Iijima Town Rice Bale Marathon】 In Iijima Town, where Rice cultivation has been popular since ancient times, a marathon is held in which Rice Bales are carried. It is a Popular event that will be held for the 11th time in 2023, and every every year, applications will flood in and the capacity will be filled with applications as soon as recruitment starts. ◇◇Introducing Recommendations for Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture Iijima in Nagano Prefecture is a fascinating region for its natural beauty, rich history, and heartwarming local events. Please spend a healing time in Iijima. This Account will send out Tourist Information of Iijima Town, so please follow us.

With the aim of regional revitalization, promotion of recognition, and expansion of consumption by Tomi Wine, which leads the Chikuma River Wine Valley, we will invite visitors from the Tokyo metropolitan area and all over the country to hold a wine festival outdoors in May with a new look from every year autumn. This year, the event will be held for two days, and will also sell limited edition wines that assemble mix and harmonize grapes from each producer in the city, and to convey the charm of delicious food in the region. I hope you all enjoy it. Name: Tomi Wine Festa 2024 - Assemblage Date and time: May 11 Sat and 12 Sun held for 2 days in Reiwa 6 　　　11:00~16:00 on both days Implementation in case of rain Location: JA Shinshu Ueda Tomi Branch La Vérité Parking Lot 63-4 Tanaka, Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture 　　　Shinano Railway About a 5-minute walk from Tanaka Station Participation fee: Free for everyone Bring your own wine glasses 　　　* All drinks and food Will be sold charged. Wine glasses with participating winery logos 2024 limited sale 700 yen will end as soon as they run out Organizer: Tomi Wine Club wineries in the city, wine grape producers, wine support group Supported by: Tomi City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Shinshu Toumi Tourism Association, Nagano Wine Association Sponsor: Tomi City, each company Cooperation: 82 Bank Tanaka Branch, JA Shinshu Ueda Tomi Branch Vendors: Wineries, wine grape producers, local restaurants, etc.

A inn Johshuya for rent in a Unno Yado where the townscape of harmony continues In the Edo period, it was full of vitality as a Shukuba-juku, and during the Meiji and Taisho periods, it Unno Yado shifted to a city where sericulture was thriving. Even now, the precious buildings of that time are lined up, and if you step inside, you can feel the "time" that is constantly streaming beyond the long history of Unno Yado, which has lasted for nearly 400 years. Johshuya is the only space where you can liken your time to a thread and unwind the tightly twisted thread. Dinner at Johshuya Johshuya offers creative Japanese cuisine produced by Komoro City "Drunkenness". A small bowl made with ingredients from Shinshu, and Shinshu premium beef sukiyaki as the main dish. It is a hot pot that warms up in this season when it is still cold. You can consult with us about the arrangement of the dishes according to your budget and wishes. Please experience the cuisine filled in the space of Johshuya and the local wine together with "unwinding time". #Unno Yado #Old townscape #Nagano Trip #Rental of a building

The long week of the new school year is coming to an end. Here's a little reflection of March. [Implementation of study tour by junior high and high school students @ Tomi City] 3/23 Sat - 26 Tue As part of the Ueda-Tomi Study Tour, members of the Social Action Team of the Volunteer Department of International Secondary School attached to Tokyo Gakugei University visited Tomi City! While continuing the relationship with Ueda, this time the field was expanded to Tomi, and 14 junior high and high school students experienced Tomi for the first time Tomi was on the 1st day of 3/25. We actually visit the area, interacted with local people, and worked on a study tour to think about local issues together from the perspective of junior high and high school students. Tomi's theme is "How can people gather in Tomi?" It's huge! Because this was my first time in Tomi, I dared to ask them to grasp the charm of Tomi from multiple perspectives without being bound by the perspective of tourism. [Local people who cooperated this time] ⚪︎Cave Hatano Hatano-san ⚪︎SASAKI FARM 佐々木さん ⚪︎ Kodama Family Residence & Cafe Nei Kodama's family ⚪︎Unno Yado Kamishuya Asakawa-san * SASAKI FARM was specially accepted for training. Please note that it is not a tourist ranch. The junior high and high school students fell in love with the land of Tomi itself, and while touching the enthusiasm of Adults who took on the challenge of realizing their commitments and desires, they enthusiastically asked specific and Unfolding questions. Although it was only one day, I was very impressed by the way they tried to get to know Tomi deeply. At the end, the "charm of Tomi" that everyone felt at the Unno Yado Fureai Center was output in a short time. From the moment you unfold the imitation paper, the pen moves all at once! Impression by the enthusiasm of the junior high and high school students. I'm looking forward to the reports that will be compiled in the future. Tomi, like Ueda, I can't help but think that we can build a Gari with continuity. Tokyo Gakugei University International Secondary School Volunteer Department See you all in Tomi/ ・ ・ [Thanks] Thank you again to everyone in the community who cooperated with us! Please 🙏 note that some tagging did not work Regional Revitalization Cooperation Volunteers T.N #Tomi City #Nagano Prefecture #Study Tour #Tourism Association #Commerce, Industry and Tourism Division #Junior and senior high school students #Local issues #Connecting with the community #Adult challenging #Winery #Cavehatano #Sheep Farm #Sasaki Farm #Sasaki Farm #Kodama Family Residence #Kodama Family Residence Cafe #Unno Yado #Rental inn #Unno Yado Kamishuya

HELLO VIEWERS OF COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! This is the Shinshu Toumi Tourism Association. Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture is a city in the eastern part of Nagano Prefecture. Surrounded by the Asama mountain range of Joshinetsu Kogen National Park to the north and Tateshina and Yatsugatake to the south, it is an area rich in Rich in nature, with more than half of the city being mountain forests and one-fourth being fields. The city was created in 2002 by the merger of Higashimomachi and Kitamomaki Village, and became "Tomi City" by taking one letter each of the Omi of Higashimomachi "east" and Kitamomaki Village. There is the Joshinetsu Expressway "Tobu Yunomaru Interchange" and the Shinano Railway "Tanaka Station" and "Shigeno Station", and it is about 2 hours from Central Tokyo and about 1 hour from Nagano City and Matsumoto City. ==Recommended sightseeing spots in Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== ・Unno Yado Opened in 1625 as a Shukuba-juku on the Kitakuni Highway, it is a tourist destination that still retains its original appearance. You can feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Edo period. ・Myojin Pond It is a pond built in the Edo period, and it is Maintenance as an Art Village Park centered on the pond, and you can see the beautiful scenery of the four seasons such as New green and autumn leaves in the Satoyama. There are facilities in the park such as the Umeno Memorial Picture Gallery and the Fureaikan. ・Unnojyuku History and Folklore Museum The building built around 1790 in the Edo period is still used as a Documents Museum. The climate, history, and documents of Unno Yado are on display ・Roadside Station Raiden Walnut Village At the Roadside Station at the entrance to Yunomaru Highland, you can enjoy a meal that makes use of hand-made soba "Inutate Soba" and local ingredients at the restaurant. Local agricultural products and specialty products are lined up, so it is also recommended to buy Souvenirs for sightseeing in Tomi City. ・Yunomaru Ski Resort It is the closest powder snow ski resort to Central Tokyo, and the six slopes can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced skiers. The business period is from late November to early April every year. ・Yunomaru Plateau It is a plateau located on the west side of the Asama mountain ranges, and the Renge azalea of Azalea Plain is also designated as a national natural monument. Every year, when the Renge azalea is in full bloom, the "Yunomaru Kogen Azalea Festival" is held. ・Yurakuchi-kan Wine & Beer Museum It is a facility where you can experience Tomi Wine, such as an exhibition room that introduces the history of Tomi Wine, winery Information in Tomi City, grape cultivation amount, etc., and a tasting area and wine sales centered on Tomi City wine. A wine concierge is also available, so be sure to find your favorite wine. ==Specialty products and gourmet foods of Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== Kyoho grapes, walnuts, sweet corn, Shirado potatoes, and broccoli are specialty products of Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture. These specialty products are also popular as thank-you gifts for roadside stations and Furusato Nozei tax payments. In addition, wineries are being born one after another in Tomi City, and wine taxis are also operated to visit wineries in the city. ==Events and festivals in Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== ・Raiden Festival It is a major summer event in Tomi City held at Tanaka Shopping Street, and there are performances and dances on stage, and many Kitchen Cars are lined up in the shopping street. At the climax, the festivals are enlivened by a dance parade. ・Unno Yado Fureai Festival It is a festival held every November at Uminojuku, Old Kitakuni Highway, Unno Juku, and a procession dressed in Edo period costumes parades through the city. The buildings and gardens of Unno Yado, which you cannot usually see, will be opened. ==Agricultural experience in Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== The idyllic atmosphere of Tomi City, with its fields spread all around, is difficult to enjoy in the Central Tokyo. There is also a travel plan where you can enjoy farming experience while interacting with the warm and friendly people of Tomi City. Even if you visit sightseeing for the first time in Tomi, the local staff will support you so that you can participate with peace of mind. Agricultural experience plans include "Rice cultivation", "Apple cultivation", "Corn harvesting experience", and "Traditional Japanese straw raincoat harvesting experience". ==Recommended Information for Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== The Nature of the Tomi City and the atmosphere of the historic city Fascination those who visit. Please feel the charm of Tomi City firsthand. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will provide recommended Information that will help you plan your trip to Tomi City.

【Nagiso Town】May dolls on display At the free rest area "Fureaikan" in Tsumago juku, May dolls are on display. Visiting the site is free and will last until Wednesday, June 5. Please come and visit us! For details, please visit the official website of Tsumago juku. Inquiries: Tsumagoro Tourist Information Center TEL: 0264-57-3123

Nezame Area Nakasendo Guided Tour Join our Nakasendo guided tour in Agematsu Town! Walk with a local guide who knows the area well and enjoy the seasonal natural scenery. The tour includes the limited revival soba set at Echizenya, a long-established soba shop celebrating its 400th anniversary. Seasonal local snacks will also be served. Nezame-no-toko in the Central Alps Quasi-National Park is one of the Nakasendo’s most scenic spots, beloved by writers and artists. In the Nezame area, a historical roadside teahouse from the old Nakasendo still evokes the atmosphere of the Edo period. Follow a tour tracing the history and culture unique to Agematsu, the home of Kiso hinoki. Scheduled Dates 2024: Wednesday, May 8; Wednesday, June 26; Wednesday, October 9; Wednesday, November 13. 2025: Wednesday, January 15 Meeting Place In front of JR Agematsu Station at 9:30 AM Time 9:30 AM–around 3:00 PM What to Wear Comfortable clothing, sturdy walking shoes; bring drinks, rain gear, and a towel Participation Fee 4,000 yen (monitor price 3,000 yen only for the first session on May 8) Capacity About 10 participants per session, first come, first served How to Apply Agematsu Tourism Association TEL: 0264-52-1133

How do you do! This is the Kiso Tourism Federation! Kiso, Nagano Prefecture is a region in the Kiso River basin of Nagano Prefecture and consists of eight cities and towns: Nakatsugawa City, Nagiso Town, Okuwa Village, Agematsu Town, Kiso Town, Otaki Village, Kiso Village, and Shiojiri City. Located in a valley surrounded by 3,000-meter-high mountains that have been selected as a 100 Famous Mountains of Japan, it is an area where delicious air, water, and Healing space brought by Nature spread. The historic Shukuba-juku town still remains along the old Along the road and is visited by many travelers. In this article, we will introduce you to the history and highlights of the Kiso, as well as Information local Specialty Products and events. ◆History of Kiso, Nagano Kiso The Nakasendo Highway, which connected Kyoto and Edo during the Edo period, was an important highway with many people coming and going. Kiso, which is part of the Nakasendo Highway, has prospered as a transportation hub since ancient times, with many travelers and supplies coming and going. Many Shukuba-juku towns have developed and retain their faces even today, and Kisoji was designated as the first Japanese heritage site in Nagano Prefecture. At that time, 69 Shukuba were placed in the Nakasendo 540-kilometer process, of which 11 Shukuba are located in Kisoji. Nakasendo Kisoji 11 Shukuba ・Niekawa Juku ・Narai juku ・Yauhara juku ・Miyanokoshi juku ・Fukushima juku ・Agematsu juku ・Suhara-juku ・Nojiri juku ・Midono juku ・Tsumago juku ・Magome juku Even now, the cityscape of the Edo period Unfolds on Kisoji, and you can feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Edo period. ◆Introduction of tourist spots in Kiso, Nagano Kiso ◇Kiso Kaida Highlands Elevation Kaida Highlands overlooking Mt. Ontake, which stretches for 1,100 to 1,400 meters, is Unfolds with rural scenery. There are sports facilities and Hot spring facilities, and it is crowded with many tourists. At the "Kiso Horse Village" in the Highlands, you can also enjoy horseback riding and horse-drawn carriage experiences. ◇Nezame-no-Toko On the floor of Nezame-no-Toko in Agematsu town, you can see a strangely shaped granite rock that looks like a row of large boxes. It was designated as a national scenic spot in 1923 and became a Central Alps National Park in 2020. ◇Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest It is one of Japan's three most beautiful forests in Agematsu town, and there is a forest of natural Kiso Hinoki trees that are more than 300 years old. It is also the birthplace of forest bathing, where Japan's first forest bathing competition was held in 1982. ◇Ontake Lake, Shizenko Nature Lake The beautiful lake in Otaki village also offers ontake lake canoe touring and Shizenko Nature Lake nature canoe tours. Since you can see the beautiful appearance of the four seasons, it is a popular photo Spot and is visited by many tourists throughout the year. ◇Atera Canyon The emerald green clear streams of Atera Canyon in Okuwa Village are called "Atera Blue" and are a popular healing spot for girls' trips. ◆Introduction of Roadside Station in Kiso, Nagano Kiso At the Roadside Station, fresh vegetables and specialty products from the local Kiso are lined up, and you can enjoy Kiso's gourmet food. Souvenirs are also recommended! ・Roadside Station Kiso Fukushima Kiso Town, Kiso-gun, Nagano Prefecture ・Roadside Station Hiyoshi Kiso Koma Kogen Hinoyoshi, Kiso-cho, Kiso-gun, Nagano ・Roadside Station Kiso River Headwaters Village Kisomura Kiso Village, Kiso-gun, Nagano Prefecture ◆Introduction of Specialty products and crafts of Kiso, Nagano Kiso Kiso is also known for its rich specialty products nurtured by its natural environment. Matsutake mushrooms in Kiso town are famous for their high aroma and are popular as a taste of autumn. Sunki, pickled red turnip, and Maki of magnolia leaves are traditional gourmet foods in Kiso where you can enjoy their unique flavors. In addition, Kiso lacquerware is an Ancient tradition that has been handed down in the Kiso area for a long time, and the longer it is used, the warmer and luster it becomes, and the more beautiful it shines. ◆Introduction of local events and festivals in Kiso, Nagano Kiso ◇Mizunashi Shrine Festival Mikoshi portable shrine roll This festival, held every July, is a rare festivals in Japan where about 100 kan about 400 kg Mikoshi portable shrines are rolled or dropped and destroyed overnight, and is also called "One of the world's strangest festivals". ◇Kiso Yoshinaka Flag Raising Festival It is a festival registered as a Component Cultural Assets, and mourns Lord Yoshinaka, lights a fire character in the shape of a "tree" on Mt. Yamabuki, and a warrior procession parades through the town. ◆Introduction of Kiso, Nagano Prefecture Kiso, Nagano Kiso is a fascinating region for its magnificent nature and rich history. While walking along the old highways that have remained since the Edo period, you can feel the unchanging scenery that travelers must have felt at that time. We will continue to send out Information that will convey the charm of Kiso to everyone who sees COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, so Best regards!

How do you do! This is the Togakushi Tourist Association. Togakushi, Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture was created in 2005 when Togakushi Village was incorporated into Nagano City. Access from Nagano Station is about 60 minutes by bus without transfer, and it is also a well-located tourist destination. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will send out recommended information on Togakushi, Nagano City! Best regards. ==Legend of Togakushi, Nagano City== Nagano City Togakushi is steeped in myths and legends. Mt. Togakushi Mountain is revered as the home of the nine-headed dragon, the god of water, and has been worshipped and flourished by many people since ancient times. ==Togakushi Shrine and Togakushi Kodo == One of the tourist spots in Togakushi is Togakushi Shrine. It is a shrine with a history of about 2,000 years that was founded in the foot of Mt. of Togakushi Mountain, and consists of five shrines: Okusha Shrine, Naka Shrine, Hokosha, Kuzuryusha, and Hino-Mikosha. It is a temple where many Shukubo have gathered since ancient times, and there are many attractions such as the scenery of cedar trees over 400 years old on the Okusha Shrine approach, and many worshippers visit throughout the year. The road that connects Togakushi Shrine Okusha Shrine and Zenkoji Temple in the center of Nagano City is the "Togakushi Kodo" carved out by Shugenja. The ancient road is dotted with famous places and old sites such as "Ichinotorii first torii", "Fushi-wogamisho", and "Inkstone", and you can trace the trajectory of Togakushi's faith and culture by walking. ==Popular tourist destinations in Togakushi, Nagano City== In Togakushi, Nagano City, there are other recommended sightseeing spots besides Togakushi Shrine. Here is a brief introduction to some of them. ・Kagami Pond At 1,200 meters Elevation, the Kagami Pond offers a beautiful view of the mirroring of Togakushi mountain range on the surface of the pond. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the four seasons. ・Mt. Mt.Iizuna It is one of the Five Mountains of Northern Shinshu and has an elevation of 1,917 meters. There are three mountain trails: the Togakushi Ski Resort Koshimizu slope, the West Trail, and the South Trail. The Trekking course takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes each way, so even beginners can enjoy climbing. ・Togakushi Ski Resort It is a ski resort where you can enjoy Togakushi in winter, and from the top of the mountain you can see Mt. Togakushi Mountain, Mt. Takatsuma, and the Northern Alps. Slope with 19 mountain trails of smooth powder snow can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced skiers. ==Beloved Specialty Products of Togakushi, Nagano City== Togakushi Soba, which has been passed down with a long history and unique techniques, is one of Japan's Three Great Soba Noodles. It is also known as a popular Specialty Products for its traditional crafts and Togakushi Bamboo Crafts, in which a single craftsman consistently finishes everything from collection to processing using Chishimazasa, which grows naturally in the Togakushi. These Specialty Products are created by the rich nature of Togakushi and traditional techniques. It is also recommended as a souvenir when sightseeing in Togakushi. ==Accommodations in Togakushi, Nagano City== When sightseeing in the Togakushi of Nagano Prefecture, we recommend Use Shukubo as a memory of your trip. Shukubo is a temple or shrine accommodations where you can enjoy a beautiful historic appearance and traditional Vegetarian cuisine. Shukubo, Minshuku, Pension, Hotel, etc. are also available, so please Use the Accommodations that suit your travel plan. ==Enjoy your trip to Togakushi, Nagano City== Togakushi, Nagano City, is an area that is attractive for its mysterious natural landscape, rich history, faith and culture, and local specialty products. Come and spend a peaceful time and feel the beauty of nature and the depth of history. We will continue to send out recommended information about Nagano City Togakushi, so please follow us!

Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture Kanou School Building This school was built in Meiji 12 1879. It is the oldest school building in the prefecture after the Nakagome School in Saku and the Kaichi School in Matsumoto, and the oldest school building in the Ueda and Oken regions. This school building was built by the enthusiastic love of education of the Japanese villagers. The aim was to cultivate a "Japanese soul and Western talent" type of person whose mind is Japanese and whose knowledge is Western culture. ⭐︎Key points ⭐of this photo︎ 　The roof is a structure that is often seen in temples and shrines, called a thatched main house, and the devil's face at the eaves is also characteristic Dragon Tiger Confucius Mencius.

Kitakuni Highway "Unno Yado" The townscape of Unno Yado is a traditional style of houses in harmony with the thatched-roof buildings of the Edo period and the robust silkworm buildings of the Meiji era and later. The irrigation water streams in the center of the road and the beautiful houses with lattice doors on both sides of it make you feel a quiet atmosphere reminiscent of a historical hometown. History of Unno Yado Unno Yado was opened in the 2nd year of Kanei 1625 as a inn station in Kitakuni Highway. The Kitakuni Highway is an important highway connecting the Nakasendo Highway and the Hokuriku Expressway. In addition to the transportation of gold mined in Sado and the change of attendance of the daimyo of Hokuriku, there was also frequent traffic with Edo, and there were many pilgrims to Zenkoji. After the adjacent Tanaka inn was damaged by the great flood in Kanho 2 and the main camp was moved to Unno Yado, it was very busy, with 59 denma houses and 23 hatago. After the Shukuba-juku function was lost in the Meiji era, it moved to a sericulture village. Since the traditional houses of Unno Yado have been preserved to this day, it was selected as one of the "100 Best Roads in Japan" in 1986 Showa 61 and as an "Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings" in 62. ⭐︎Highlights ⭐of this photo︎ 　In the Edo period inn-style building, the second floor is more protruding than the first floor. It is said that it is a consideration so that travelers do not get wet when getting ready on rainy days.

Speaking of famous warlords of the Sanada clan, "Sanada Yukimura Sanada Nobushige" Sanada Yukimura, who played an active role in chasing down "Tokugawa Ieyasu" in the "Osaka Natsujin" in 1615 Keicho 20, and "Sanada Masayuki" Sanada Masayuki, who defeated Tokugawa Ieyasu's large army twice, are famous. In addition, as a conspiracy general of "Takeda Shingen" bosho: a general who excelled in strategy, "Sanada Yukitaka" Sanada Yukitaka, who was said to be inferior to Takeda Shingen, can be mentioned. Prior to the establishment of the Shukuba town, Unno Yado was called "Unno-go" or "Umino-sho" and was the birthplace of the Umino clan, a branch of the Shigeno clan of Shinshu, which is said to be the root of the Sanada clan, from Heian to Kamakura and the Sengoku period. ⭐︎Key points ⭐of this photo︎ This is the current state of the main team. When you open the gate, you will be greeted by a magnificent tree. In addition, one of Sanada Yukimura's entourage, "Umino Rokuro" Unnorokuro, whose name also appears in the creative vassal group "Sanada Ten Brave Warriors" Sanada Ju Yuushi, is also said to have been from this area. In 1583 Tensho 11, Masayuki Sanada moved the shrine and town from Umino to Ueda when he built "Ueda Castle" Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture. After that, the village was reduced and Unno Yado was established as an "inn station on the snow country highway".

Kitakuni Highway "Unno Yado"　 The townscape of Unno Yado is a traditional style of houses in harmony with the thatched-roof buildings of the Edo period and the robust silkworm buildings of the Meiji era and later. 　 The irrigation water streams in the center of the road and the beautiful houses with lattice doors on both sides of it make you feel a quiet atmosphere reminiscent of a historical hometown. History of Unno Yado Unno Yado was opened in the 2nd year of Kanei 1625 as a inn station in Kitakuni Highway. The Kitakuni Highway is an important highway connecting the Nakasendo Highway and the Hokuriku Expressway. In addition to the transportation of gold mined in Sado and the change of attendance of the daimyo of Hokuriku, there was also frequent traffic with Edo, and there were many pilgrims to Zenkoji. After the adjacent Tanaka inn was damaged by the great flood in Kanho 2 and the main camp was moved to Unno Yado, it was very busy, with 59 denma houses and 23 hatago. After the Shukuba-juku function was lost in the Meiji era, it moved to a sericulture village. Since the traditional houses of Unno Yado have been preserved to this day, it was selected as one of the "100 Best Roads in Japan" in 1986 Showa 61 and as an "Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings" in 62. ⭐︎Highlights ⭐of this photo︎ 　Design of traditional buildings 　Pay attention to the protruding parts on both sides! It's called "Honudatsu" and it's from the Edo period. There is also a "sleeve udatsu", which is from the Meiji era. Neither of these was something that could only be done from a wealthy family. It is from this place that the phrase "depression does not rise" was born.

The traditional townscape is a harmonious blend of travel basket buildings from the Edo period and sericulture buildings built during the Meiji era when sericulture was popular. The irrigation water streams in the center of the road and the beautiful houses with lattice doors lining both sides of the road give you a quiet appearance reminiscent of a historical hometown. ⭐︎Key points ⭐of this photo︎ The lattice on the second floor is called "Umino lattice" and is from the Edo period. On top of the roof, there is a small roof. This is called "unpretentiousness" and is a symbol of the construction of silkworms in the Meiji era. After it was no longer used as a travel basket, it was built to emit smoke from a fire that was burned to keep warm when the guest room was used as a silkworm room. It is a feature that tells the story of the transition from Shukuba-juku to sericulture. Details of Unno Yado: The Unno Yado was opened in 1625 as a inn station in Kitakuni Highway. The Kitakuni Highway is an important highway connecting the Nakasendo and Hokuriku Highways, and in addition to transporting gold mined in Sado and changing the attendance of various feudal lords in Hokuriku, there was frequent traffic to and from Edo, and many visitors visited Zenkoji Temple. Since the beginning of the Meiji era, sericulture has become popular. The characteristics of the building from that time still remain today. Since the traditional houses have been preserved to the present, it was selected as one of the "100 Best Roads in Japan" in Showa 61 Showa 61 and as an "Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings" in 1987 Showa 62.

The traditional townscape is a harmonious blend of travel basket buildings from the Edo period and sericulture buildings built during the Meiji era when sericulture was popular. The irrigation water streams in the center of the road and the beautiful houses with lattice doors lining both sides of the road give you a quiet appearance reminiscent of a historical hometown. Details: The Unno Yado was opened in 1625 as a inn station in Kitakuni Highway. The Kitakuni Highway is an important highway connecting the Nakasendo and Hokuriku Highways, and in addition to transporting gold mined in Sado and changing the attendance of various feudal lords in Hokuriku, there was frequent traffic to and from Edo, and many visitors visited Zenkoji Temple. Since the beginning of the Meiji era, sericulture has become popular. The characteristics of the building from that time still remain today. Since the traditional houses have been preserved to the present, it was selected as one of the "100 Best Roads in Japan" in Showa 61 Showa 61 and as an "Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings" in 1987 Showa 62.

Notanohira Campground A blissful time spent relaxing by a clear stream and soaking up the great outdoors <The site is managed by Media Wars Co., Ltd., under commission from Toyooka Village> A management building repurposed from the former Notanohira Branch School The campsites sit in a perfect location with trees providing shady spots Thirty minutes by car from the village center, this campground lies beside a secluded clear stream The site makes the most of nature with tent sites and bungalows, and the former branch school building is used as an event space Tent sauna rentals are available, and you can refresh yourself by plunging into the clear stream’s cold water! →For details, please contact the site manager. Bungalows are also available The tent sites sit beside the clear Abukawa Stream, which becomes a natural pool in summer! If you want to forget everyday life, this is the place: Notanohira Campground! The access road to the campground currently sees dump trucks and other heavy vehicles due to construction related to the Chuo Shinkansen linear project. Please drive carefully on the way to the campground. *Mobile phone reception is unavailable near the campground. Some SoftBank network phones may have a signal.* The campground is managed and operated by Media Wars Co., Ltd. For detailed information and reservations, please apply via the Notanohira Campground website. Search for “Notanohira Campground”

One group per day only! A completely private campsite!! This is a one-group-per-day, fully private campsite that has long been missing from the scene. It’s perfect for campers who found it hard to use regular auto campgrounds with their dogs or those arriving in large camper vans. You can reserve the whole site just for your family or friends without worrying about other campers! ※This campsite is operated by a private business. About 700 tsubo of land becomes a completely private space! The view of the Central Alps visible from the site is breathtaking! The management building is equipped with a kitchen, bathroom, and clean shower toilet! The private space feels wonderful at night Enjoy delicious campsite meals with family and friends like these! Perched on a hill, the campsite offers spectacular scenery; rice terraces and a shrine nearby give the area a peaceful, rural atmosphere. You can see stunning rice terrace views from the site The night view and starry sky are magnificent! The grounds are surrounded by wooden fencing, so campers with dogs can let them play without worry. An ideal campsite for those bringing dogs! Lantern light creates a relaxed atmosphere. There are private homes around Toyooka Base. Even though this is a private campsite, please observe proper manners and avoid disturbing local residents. Reservations are accepted by members only via the website. For details, please see the Free Site Base "Toyooka Base" homepage. Search for "FREE SITE BASE"

In Nagawacho, at Himekidaira, flowering peach trees were in bloom 🌸 Their pink color looked beautiful against the sunny sky ☺️☺️

At Kenfukuji Temple in Takato-cho, Ina City, Nagano Prefecture, there is a master craftsman in Takato Masonry, by Sadaharu Moriya. The illuminated stone Buddha was artistic, giving the impression that I was watching a museum exhibition, and I couldn't help but say, "It's amazing." The cherry blossoms and autumn leaves are wonderful, but I also liked the nostalgic place with a lot of historical heritage.

The Nagawacho Tourist Information Center inside Roadside Station Marumero No Eki Nagato offers e-bike rentals🚴 Called “Nagawa Cycle”! With an electric-assist e-bike, long distances and uphill roads become easy! Relax and enjoy a comfortable ride at your own pace amid pleasant natural surroundings 😊 〇 Reception hours 9:30 AM–2:00 PM 〇 Usage hours 9:30 AM–4:30 PM 〇 Rental location Nagawacho Tourist Information Center, 2424-19 Furumachi, Nagawacho, Chiisagata District, Nagano Prefecture 〇 Contact 0268-68-0006 Shinshu Nagawacho Tourism Association Nagawacho Sports Commission

It is Matsumoto Castle in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture. The castle tower is thought to have been built in Bunroku 2~3 1593~4, and is the oldest existing five-story and six-story castle tower in Japan, and is designated as a national treasure along with Himeji Castle, Hikone Castle, Inuyama Castle, and Matsue Castle. It is a famous castle with a history that has overcome many dangers.