October 4, 2025 Kami-Suwa Kaido Town Walk and Sake Stroll 2025

On that day, a major event took place in Suwa: “Kami-Suwa Kaido Town Walk and Sake Stroll.” Along the route from Kami-Suwa Station, within about 1 km along National Route 20, five of Suwa’s famous breweries stand side by side, and for the event the area from Suwa 2-chome to the Motomachi traffic lights was turned into a pedestrian zone. The five breweries of Suwa proudly served their signature sake. This year, a hinoki masu (cypress sake cup) and a participant sticker worn on the left chest functioned as the festival passport, creating an event where guests could enjoy the aroma of hinoki along with fine sake. Tickets were limited to 3,000, and popularity was so high that they sold out by September 14—half a month earlier than last year.
This time, foodie Kasai couldn’t make it to the site… but a staff member from the same association kindly provided photos!
Local restaurants once again showcased their skills with snack stalls, and neighborhood groups offered their own stalls as well!!!

Although it rained on the day, the ticket exchange at 11:00 at Suwachao was bustling. The town began to liven up ahead of the pedestrian zone opening at 12:00, and by the official start at 13:00 lines formed in front of the five breweries as people queued for their favorite labels. The opening featured greetings from the mayor of Suwa City and the head of the Chamber of Commerce, followed by the local traditional kiyari work songs, which marked the start of the Sake Stroll. Afterward, the kiyari performers walked along the Kaido, responding to requests and continuing their songs until about 17:00. From 14:00, local dance troupes energized the venue.

Stall lines were huge, offering yakitori, eel, karaage and san-zoku-yaki (mountain-bandit-style fried chicken), chicken wings, game dishes, skewers, candied apples, yakisoba, and more. The food stalls were a great success. People enjoyed delicious sake and tasty local dishes. We met so many smiling faces—thank you very much.

Next year, to ensure visitors are satisfied and entertained while securing understanding and cooperation from the local community, all our staff will continue working hard to keep Suwa lively and thriving.

https://nomiaruki.com/
https://nomiaruki.com/machiaruki-nomiaruki/

I can post about one of Nagano Prefecture’s top fireworks festivals again this year thanks to the businesses that sponsored the event, the fireworks artists, everyone who bought tickets, and the local people of the Suwa region! Thank you so much!!

The event takes place in Suwa City every year on August 15. With help from the organizing committee, we received fireworks photos from the Suwa Lake Festival Fireworks over the Lake.🎆
Because Lake Suwa sits in a basin surrounded by mountains, the echoes and shockwaves are incredible! It’s an intensity you absolutely can’t experience anywhere else!!!
If you’ve never been or have been curious, please come visit Lake Suwa next year✨ We look forward to seeing you!!!

https://suwako-hanabi.com/

Suwa Taisha Shimosha Akimiya Natsumōde 2025

On this day, glutton Kasai brings you fresh, hot-off-the-press information.
Have you heard of Natsumōde? This seasonal ritual offers a chance to savor an evening that avoids the daytime heat, letting you enjoy the cool dusk air, quiet atmosphere, and the shrine’s charming summer mood. Suwa Taisha Shimosha Akimiya is holding a Natsumōde event!!!
During the festival, the shrine will be illuminated. Shrine maidens will perform kagura, local performers will present bugaku dances, the Shimosuwa Koyō High School brass band will play, and Tsugaru shamisen performances will take place each night from 19:00. On weekends, special attractions such as festival stalls and food trucks will appear!
For details ⇒ https://shimosuwaonsen.jp/event/21644/
Goshuin collectors, take note! Limited-edition Natsumōde goshuincho and special nighttime Natsumōde goshuin will be available at Akimiya during the event. A nighttime-only “Yo-Yo Omikuji” will be offered from 18:30 to 21:00 each day, so please come and enjoy!!! Fans made of bamboo will be distributed to visitors only. They are elegant bamboo hand fans perfect for the occasion 🎶
※ This is Suwa Taisha Shimosha Akimiya, so please be careful not to confuse it with other shrines!

Suwa Taisha Shimosha Akimiya Nighttime Natsumōde
◎ Period: Thursday, August 7 – Thursday, August 14, 2025
◎ Time: 18:30–21:30

◎ Shinano-kuni Ichinomiya Suwa Taisha (Shimosha Akimiya)
📍 5828 Shimosuwa-machi, Suwa-gun, Nagano Prefecture
☎ 0266-27-8035 (Natsumōde inquiries)
◎ Homepage : https://suwataisha.or.jp/


Suwa Taisha Shimosha Akimiya – Nighttime Natsumōde 2025
Gluttony Kasai is here to bring you fresh, hot-off-the-press news!
Have you heard of Natsumōde?
While the slow, lingering summer heat has its own charm, Natsumōde offers a chance to avoid the midday heat and instead enjoy the cool evening air, the quiet atmosphere, and the magical scenery of the shrine at night.
This summer, Suwa Taisha Shimosha Akimiya will once again host this special evening event.
During the festival period, the shrine grounds will be beautifully illuminated, and visitors can enjoy sacred kagura dances performed by shrine maidens, traditional bugaku court dances by local performers, music by the Shimosuwa Kōyō High School brass band, and live Tsugaru shamisen performances.
On weekends, food stalls and kitchen cars will also make a special appearance.

Special Limited Items
• Limited-edition Natsumōde Goshuincho (temple seal book)
• Nighttime Natsumōde special Goshuin (temple seal)
• “Yo-Yo Omikuji” (balloon yo-yo fortune), available 18:30–21:00 during the event
If you are a Goshuin collector, you won’t want to miss this!

Dates: August 7 (Thu) – August 14 (Thu), 2025
Time: 18:30–21:30
Venue: Suwa Taisha Shimosha Akimiya – Shinano-kuni Ichinomiya (First Shrine of Shinano Province)
📍 5828 Shimosuwa-machi, Suwa-gun, Nagano Prefecture
☎ 0266-27-8035 (Natsumōde Inquiries)
* Homepage : https://suwataisha.or.jp/
・ Distributed to visitors only; a traditional hand fan made from bamboo, perfect for enjoying the summer evening in style 🎶
※ Please note: This event is held at Suwa Taisha Shimosha Akimiya.

Tokyo Bakery

On this day, glutton Kasai visited the nearby Tokyo Bakery, famous for its delightfully chewy bread. The shop moved to its current location in 1989; before that, it was in Suehiro, Suwa. When Kasai was a child, his grandmother often bought Tokyo Bakery bread for him. So for him, this is the bakery that helped raise him—a place he feels free to claim as his own, haha.

The bakery has been around for about 70 years. Remarkably, it even offers a bread reservation shelf where customers can reserve loaves. I had rarely heard of a bakery reservation system, so I was truly surprised. The shelf held many reserved items, showing just how popular the shop is. Your favorite loaf definitely needs a reservation 🥖

Glutton Kasai’s recommendations are: pain de mie, cheese baguette, bacon-cheese baguette, karashi mentai baguette (spicy cod roe), crunchy peanut baguette, an-butter baguette (red bean and butter), coarse-ground pork roll, pizza bread, burdock salad bread, fresh cream bread, Danish bread, cream doughnut, curry bread, deluxe frankfurter, an-doughnut (sweet red bean doughnut), angel bread, banana sandwich, and all types of sandwiches. Sorry… my love for Tokyo Bakery is so strong that I ended up recommending everything I’ve eaten. Right now, I’m secretly aiming for the “Parisien”!!! Find out what that bread is like when you visit 🎶 It sounds like a bread fit for a foodie. I want to hog the Parisien all to myself, haha—I might even dream about it 🤤
Tokyo Bakery’s loaves truly have an incomparable chewy texture!!! I can boast that, of all the breads I’ve eaten in my life, theirs are the chewiest. Is it a True Sleeper? Maybe not, but it’s that chewy, haha. Fans of chewy bread must try Tokyo Bakery 🥖
Glutton Kasai gives this bakery his highest recommendation! Please come and enjoy it 🎶


◎ Tokyo Bakery
📍 Suwa City, Kowataminami 14-10
☎ 0266-52-1299
◎ Hours: 07:30 - 18:30
◎ Closed: Sundays and national holidays
◎ Parking: About 10 spaces (including shared spaces with the neighboring boutique).



The Tokyo bakery! This is glutton Kasai’s favorite bakery ever!!! The shop is so close to our office, and their bread has a wonderfully springy, chewy texture. Around 35 years ago, my grandmother bought my brothers and me sandwiches and breads from here. We loved them. They helped raise us to be big eaters!
First of all, I was amazed by the bread reservation system. Have you ever heard of reserving bread? It’s wonderful! When I visit bakeries I often can’t find my favorite loaf and end up choosing something else, so a reservation system is perfect for me. There is a “bread reservation shelf,” and it was full of reserved breads. So nice!
My recommendation at Tokyo Bakery? Absolutely everything!!! I promise you’ll be satisfied. I’m currently aiming for the “Parisienne.” It even appears in my dreams!! Hahaha!
Their bread is like a spring bed—soft and springy. I want you all to try it!!!
Gluttonous Kasai’s top-recommended bakery!


◎ Tokyo Bakery
● 14-10 Kowataminami, Suwa City
☎ 0266-52-1299
◎ Opening Hours: 07:30 - 18:30
◎ Closed: Sundays and national holidays
◎ Parking: Approximately 10 cars

On this day, foodie Kasai followed the usual sweet scent and dropped by @suwa_clover.
The person who spoke with us that day was the owner, Komatsu.

It seems clover has been here for about ten years. At first, his mother worked the register while Komatsu focused on baking. Now, he appears to handle everything on his own.

The first and most striking thing when I entered was the huge variety of cookies!!! There are so many kinds of cookies. For a cookie lover like Kasai, it was pure bliss🍪🎶 When I asked why, the answer surprised me: “The reason is I love cookies!!!” Those words were so wonderful I felt time stop🤣 You can tell without being told that cookies made by a cookie‑loving owner are special🍪 Tarts are a must-try, but the cookies are top recommendations too!!! They also make message cookies, which are popular for people who find it hard to express feelings directly or as substitutes for retirement cards—many people place large reservation orders.

And above all, the original cakes! If you look at clover’s website, you’ll see how beautiful the original cakes are!!! They’re almost too pretty to eat!!! They require a reservation, but if you provide a portrait or photo, they can make a custom order. How about a one‑and‑only original cake just for you!?

One last insider note: the drip coffee is a completely original coffee chosen and prepared by a friend of owner Komatsu to pair with clover’s cakes. It’s a coffee they don’t serve anywhere else, so it’s a must for anyone who wants it☕!!!


◎ clover
📍 Suwa City, Kogandori 4-10-21
☎ 0266-57-0374
◎ Hours: Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:30–18:00
◎ Closed: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
◎ Parking: About four spaces in front of the shop
◎ Website: https://suwa-clover.com/

Taisha Senbei Suwa Shop

On this day, foodie Kawanishi was drawn in by a sweet aroma and visited Taisha Senbei Suwa Shop.
Since childhood, foodie Kawanishi has loved Taisha Senbei’s peanut senbei and castella senbei; they are among his favorite treats.

Despite being busy, Mrs. Sasaki, wife of President Sasaki, spoke with foodie Kawanishi. Taisha Senbei’s history began with its founding in Shimosuwa Town near the end of the Taisho era, and the shop moved to Suwa City in 1955. The Suwa Confectioners’ Association roster from 2011 lists the founding year as Taisho 10 (1921), but the source of that information seems unclear. Still, you get the sense that Taisha Senbei belongs to Suwa.

When people hear Taisha Senbei, don’t they picture the peanut senbei? Actually, the first item sold as Taisha Senbei seems to have been the castella senbei (unofficial). The peanut senbei bears the name “Taisha” on the snack itself, so people naturally imagine Taisha Senbei means peanut senbei. That’s not the case. At first, castella senbei was the product known as Taisha Senbei. Both peanut senbei and castella senbei have been popular signature items since the founding. I learned this only after hearing the story myself!

Taisha Senbei’s origin story says the founder had a close relationship with the chief priest of Suwa Taisha’s Lower Shrine at the time. The priest asked the founder to make distributable treats that parishioners could receive during the Onbashira festival. The senbei the shop then made, called Asahi Senbei (today’s castella senbei), was allowed to be called “Taisha Senbei,” and so Taisha Senbei was born. I was deeply moved to finally learn the origin of a name I had wondered about since childhood.
The recipes for Taisha Senbei are fixed in their basic proportions, but the craftsmen adjust them daily according to the season, temperature, and humidity. I believe this deep trust in the artisans is why Taisha Senbei has been loved in Suwa for so long.

Taisha Senbei’s recommended products are, of course, all of their offerings, but one item that especially caught my eye was the salted yokan with walnuts. They use large walnuts so generously that you can plainly see big chunks of walnut with the naked eye. It’s a must-buy souvenir for walnut lovers!!!

The tourist association reports that visitors from other prefectures often buy Taisha Senbei as souvenirs in Suwa, and the taste prompts questions like “Can this be bought online or at department stores?” That’s how popular it is. When you visit Suwa, please pick some up as a souvenir!!!


◎ Taisha Senbei Suwa Shop
📍 5320-9 Nakasu, Suwa City
☎ 0266-53-2777
◎ Business hours: 9:00 – 17:15
◎ Closed: Sundays
◎ Parking: About 10 spaces in front of the shop
◎ Website: http://taisyasenbei.jp/

Suwabettei Shuhaku

On this day, foodie Kawanishi visited the newly renewed Suwabettei Shuhaku before it opened. The exterior now shows a calm, chic gray tone. The name’s origin, Shuhaku, which represents the two-colored hot springs, remains, and the property reopened as Suwabettei Shuhaku to serve as a villa-like retreat offering both the comfort of being at home and the excitement and delights you don’t find at home.

There are modern Japanese-Western rooms with open-air baths (onsen) facing the lake, and modern Japanese-Western rooms with open-air baths; the lake-front open-air bath rooms measure 60 m², offering spacious accommodation and views of Lake Suwa, with the unique fun and excitement of a room that includes an open-air bath not found at home.

For a delightful meal, non-staying guests can enjoy a walk-in lunch for groups of 10 to 50 people (from ¥4,400 per person). Even better, guests wishing to use the hot spring can add on the bath for ¥550 (tax included, towel provided) to enjoy the full onsen experience. ※ Reservation required: applications must be made by 3:00 PM three days in advance.


◎ Suwabettei Shuhaku
📍Kogandori 3-2-2, Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture
☎ 0266-52-2660
◎ Parking: capacity about 50 cars / free of charge
◎ Website: https://www.suhaku.co.jp/

56th Takashima Castle Festival
Hello everyone! The hot weather continues. 💦
This weekend the forecast is uncertain, but the Takashima Castle Festival will take place on Sunday the 25th.
The festival commemorates the 1970 reconstruction of Takashima Castle’s keep. Along with Taiko drumming, a dragon-god dance, and kiyari work chants, the grounds will host a Suwa City recommended souvenir exhibition and sale, among other events.
・Date and time ⇒ Sunday, May 25, 2025, 9:00–15:00
・Location ⇒ Takashima Park
・Attractions ⇒ Stage performances and various vendors
・Parking ⇒ Suwa Lake Event Plaza (for visitors)

For details, please check the URL below!
https://suwacci.or.jp/suwayoiteko/lp/takashimajousai/

May 13, 2025 Takashima Castle Wisteria

On this day, foodie KAWANISHI visited the wisteria at Takashima Castle (Takashima Park).
This year, I came to see the wisteria at Takashima Castle again! I think it will finish blooming by the end of this week.
At Takashima Castle, two rows of wisteria trellises stand side by side, and there are wisteria over the pond as well. The colors are stunning, with a beautiful contrast of purple and white!!! Usually, they reach their best around Golden Week.

Suwa Karin‑no‑Ki — a bakery committed to Hokkaido wheat and additive‑free dough

On this day I, food‑lover Kasai, visited Suwa Karin‑no‑Ki. The owner opened the shop in May 2012 with a strong desire to bake bread that parents can feel safe giving to children and babies.
The dough uses wheat from Hokkaido and contains no preservatives, artificial colors, or additives.
・Eggs ⇒ Eggs from chickens raised at the foot of Mount Yatsugatake
・Milk ⇒ Milk from Jersey cows raised on the Nobeyama Plateau
・Sausage and bacon ⇒ Additive‑free, showcasing the natural taste of the meat
・Wheat ⇒ Carefully selected Hokkaido wheat (e.g., Haruyutaka)

About 25 types of bread (including seasonal items) are usually on display; when I visited around 2:00 p.m., many items were already sold out.
The owner recommends enjoying the bakery's most popular bâtard with a dip of olive oil. I tried a rare matcha‑flavored melon pan and a rusk made from melon pan. The large, American‑style oat cookies were sold out that day, but they are excellent when available. Find your favorite bread and enjoy it!

◎ Bread Workshop Suwa Karin‑no‑Ki
📍 Suwa City Ote 2‑1‑2
☎ 0266‑55‑4343
◎ Hours: 10:00 – 19:00
◎ Closed: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday
◎ Parking: Nawate Parking Lot (parking voucher available for customers who purchase)
◎ Payment: Cash, PayPay
◎ Website: https://treeofkarin.weblike.jp/

The other day, the organizing committee for the Autumn Fireworks (formerly called the National New Fireworks Competition) met and adopted the name “National New Fireworks Challenge Cup 2025.”
And the launch times have now been decided‼️
Please note that the start times for the launches will differ, so be careful when you come! Thank you‼️

https://suwako-hanabi.com/shinsaku/

It’s gradually getting warmer!

Two weeks ago, surprisingly, glutton Kasai was laid up with the flu. My temperature reached nearly 39°C, but somehow my appetite stayed strong (´～｀)! Please take care, everyone... Since I took time off two weeks ago, I’ll be back this week as energetic and hungry as ever!

Everyone, the cherry blossom season is approaching 🌸 Aren’t you starting to want to see some cherry blossom photos? These photos are from past years, but Suwa City has many great cherry blossom viewing spots. If you have any recommended cherry blossom viewpoints, I would be very grateful if you could share them!!!
Glutton Kasai prefers dumplings to flowers, but www I’ll still post plenty about Suwa City’s cherry blossom viewing spots! Looking back at last year’s posts, it was around mid-April!

Hi there! This is glutton Kasai!
I caught the flu last week… It was awful! I had a high fever… BUT I still had a voracious appetite!!! Can you believe it? It’s true… Everyone, please take care!!!

These days, Suwa City is gradually warming up. The o-hanami season is coming!
O-hanami is a traditional Japanese spring event. We enjoy a feast while watching the cherry blossoms bloom. These pictures were taken earlier.
This year, I’ll keep researching the best cherry blossom viewing spots and the best times to see them!!!
I checked last year’s post; it was in mid-April! Please take a look!!!

★Lake Suwa / Kami-Suwa Onsen — A Ryokan with Delicious Food: Hama no Yu

※Kami-Suwa Onsen: The Yutama Legend
At Kami-Suwa Onsen there is a “Yutama” legend that says the goddess of Suwa Taisha was carrying bathwater for her makeup on cotton as she moved from the Upper Shrine (Kamisha) to the Lower Shrine (Shimosha). Some of that water fell along the way and formed the hot spring known as Yutama.

Now, in this cold season don’t we all want to soak in a warm onsen? Food lover Kasai turns into “steam-emitting Kasai” when he sweats in winter, with steam rising from his head, haha. Lately I’ve actually gotten hooked on onsens! First, I’d like to introduce the local Kami-Suwa Onsen!!! For the first feature, we received cooperation from Hama no Yu!!! Above all, Hama no Yu’s baths let you enjoy the garden view, and their baths are made from the now-rare black granite. And the ultimate feature is their heat retention!!! This heat retention is one of their strongest points in the whole country!!! Please stay with them and enjoy their baths, which are available 24 hours a day!!!

• Men’s Bath
There are four baths: a black granite bath, a cypress bath (bubble bath), a rock open-air bath, and a herbal bath. Men can relax and recover from fatigue in the herbal bath♨. A dry sauna and cold plunge are available. The large public bath is open 24 hours!

• Women’s Bath
There are four baths: a black granite bath, a cypress bath (bubble bath), a rock open-air bath, and a lavender bath. In the women’s bath you can especially enjoy the lavender bath♨, with its delightful fragrance and excellent relaxing effect. A mist sauna and cold plunge are available. The large public bath and the lavender bath are open 24 hours!

☆ Private Bath “Asa no Yu”
A private bath is available where families can soak together in private, so if you have small children you can enjoy the onsen without worry, just like at home♨. Fee: 45 minutes / 2,200 yen (tax included)

• Source: Nanatsugama Source (a mixed spring of Shin-Mitsugama No.1 source, Shin-Mitsugama No.2 source, Ayame source, and Yanaginami source)
• Water Quality: Simple sulfur spring (weakly alkaline, hypotonic, high-temperature spring)
• Indications: Neuralgia / Muscle pain / Joint pain / Frozen shoulder / Motor paralysis / Joint stiffness / Bruises / Sprains / Chronic digestive diseases / Hemorrhoids / Sensitivity to cold / Convalescence / Recovery from fatigue / Health promotion

Everyone, please consider staying at Hama no Yu to enjoy this proud onsen and the ryokan’s pride—its delicious meals!!!

https://www.hamanoyu.co.jp/

※ Emergency Bulletin!!!

The National New Fireworks Competition will be relaunched!!!
As currently planned,
1) Staggered event schedule ⇒ September 6, 13, 20, 27 (planned) · Held rain or shine (postponed for typhoons or disasters)
2) Tournament format: after preliminary rounds, the final championship will be decided (planned for October 26)！
3) No paid box seats
The exact launch times and other details will be decided in April by the newly formed executive committee. After that, we expect to provide everyone with more detailed information. Stay tuned!!!
Be sure to make your plans and book your accommodation!!!

★ Breaking NEWS!!!
The Zenkoku Shinsaku Fireworks Competition Tournament is coming back this autumn!!!
For now, this is all the information we can share.
1. Staggered event schedule (instead of a single-day event)
2. Tournament style ⇒ Preliminary rounds on each Saturday in September: Sep 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th (plan)
3. No paid seats! You can watch for free!!!
An executive committee will form in April. After that committee meets, we will provide more detailed information.
Please look forward to it!!!

This event began with the hope of using the cold climate and nature of the Suwa region to purify Lake Suwa and revitalize the community. It now marks its 31st year.

With participation from residents of six cities and towns, the motto is “Let’s create it together! Let’s light it together! Let’s connect with the town!” as we aim to build towns and people who love their local area. While showcasing and sharing the charms of the Suwa region, about 20,000 lights will connect towns and people to convey the spirit of the Suwa Country Winter Thanksgiving.

Let’s create it together! Let’s light it together! Let’s connect with the town!

Come spend an evening in the magical Suwa region for one night only.

Event date: Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 5:00 PM (17:00)
Location: Lights will be lit at various sites across the six Suwa municipalities
*Event details will be updated on the official website as they are decided.*

Ice Candle official site http://www.ice-candle.jp/

★Locations where ice candles will be lit

・Around Kamisuwa Station shopping street
・Yanaginami Park
・Komeikan-dori
・Namiki-dori
・Shimazaki 1 Sannomaru-dori
・Takashima Castle
・Tenaga Shrine
・Suwa Taisha Kamisha Miyamachi-dori, Shanonokaze and North Approach
・Around the entrance to Sazanami Road near Kamikawa Ohashi Bridge
・Starbucks Coffee Suwa Jonan store
・Starbucks Coffee Suwa Lake SA (upbound) store
・Starbucks Coffee Nakaoki store
・Sake Brewery Street to Motomachi area
・Viole Hall
・Yukouji Ikiiki Genkikan
・Kamisuwa Onsen ryokan district
・Suwakko Land
・Okaya City Museum of Art and Archaeology
・Yotsukado Yukemuri Hiroba
・Shimosuwa-juku Tatemachi-dori
・Chino City Hall (in front of the building)
・Public Suwa Tokyo University of Science
・Deli & Cafe "K" (inside Yatsugatake Nature and Culture Park)
・Fujimi Kogen Pension Village

(in no particular order)

Wakamasu Bakery 🥖 @wakamasu_bakery (Instagram)

A beloved shop frequented by regulars, I visited Wakamasu Bakery. The bakery has run for three generations from the founder to the current owner, moving from the original Ina shop to Suwa, and has continued for 99 years!
Today, the owner and her father bake the bread together 🍞 Wakamasu began in Ina in the great-grandfather’s time, and the shop is linked to Nagano’s soul food, the gyūnyū pan (milk bread)!!!
Pop-up signs in the shop explain the products and highlight their commitment to domestic wheat and sudakito (sudaki sugar), a mineral-rich sugar made from 100% cane. Their beloved “Milk Ball” is famous, and many regulars come just for it 🥖
・A long-time favorite, the soft French-style roll filled with milk cream: the Milk Ball
・Owner’s pick: Cream Bread filled generously with homemade custard cream
・A recent hit: Croque Monsieur with homemade béchamel sauce, ham, and cheese
・Four kinds of sandwiches and two kinds of savory baked breads are available.

◎ Wakamasu Bakery
📍 4-11-10 Kogan Street, Suwa City
☎ 0266-52-3488
◎ Business hours: 8:00 – 16:00
◎ Business days: Thursday, Friday, Saturday
◎ Homepage: https://www.instagram.com/wakamasu_bakery/

Regular customers are hooked on Wakamasu Bakery’s Milk Ball! The owner’s great-grandfather started Wakamasu Bakery in Ina. Wakamasu Bakery has been in business for 99 years. Later, the owner’s father moved the shop to its current location in Suwa. Today, the owner and her father bake the bread together.
Between you and me, Wakamasu Bread is connected to gyūnyū pan (milk cream bread).
Nowadays the owner uses domestic wheat and sudaki sugar (a Japanese sugar rich in minerals). She is particular about ingredients.
These are the regular offerings:
・Regular customers come for the Milk Ball.
・The owner’s recommendation is Cream Bread with homemade custard cream.
・A recent trend is the croque monsieur with homemade béchamel sauce, ham, and cheese.
・Four kinds of sandwiches and two kinds of cooked breads.

◎ Wakamasu Bakery
📍 4-11-10 Kogan Street, Suwa City
☎ 0266-52-3488
◎ Business hours: 8:00 – 16:00
◎ Business days: Thursday, Friday, Saturday
◎ Homepage: https://www.instagram.com/wakamasu_bakery/

Kami‑Suwa Onsen Winter Stay Campaign

Believe it or not, this is the ninth year! The Kami‑Suwa Onsen Winter Stay Campaign is back! Twelve ryokan and hotels belonging to the inn association offer carefully selected premium plans at great savings!!!

★ Great deals on stays
1. As a return gift for Furusato Nozei (hometown tax) from Suwa City, accommodation vouchers usable at Kami‑Suwa Onsen ryokan and hotels (from ¥10,000) have been set up, so please make a smart tax donation via your preferred travel site this winter and enjoy the savings.

2. A drive plan from NEXCO Central Japan called Hayatabi bundles a ¥10,000 universal accommodation voucher with roughly 50% off highway tolls. You can apply via the NEXCO Central Japan website.
Product name: Kami‑Suwa Onsen Drive Plan with Universal Accommodation Voucher

★ Guests who stay during the campaign period will be entered into a prize draw
Prize A: Accommodation subsidy voucher worth ¥10,000 usable at Kami‑Suwa Onsen【50 winners】
*Delivered as two ¥5,000 vouchers Valid through January 31, 2026 (planned)

Prize B: Admission tickets to the Suwa Lake Fireworks Festival on August 15, 2025【15 pairs, 30 people】
*Seating planned in front of the Suwa Lake Geyser Center

We hope this campaign encourages you to favor Kami‑Suwa Onsen! The onsen’s warm feeling after bathing really lasts!!! (A foodie, Kasai, speaking personally...) Refresh yourself in Suwa to shake off the fatigue of 2024 and start 2025 happily and energetically♨

Kasai the Foodie’s Recommended Winter Sightseeing Course
・Taste tour of the five Suwa breweries ⇒ Stay at Kami‑Suwa Onsen ⇒ New Year’s visit to Suwa Taisha ⇒ Suwa region’s midwinter eel tradition

★ Official Kami‑Suwa Onsen Winter Stay Campaign Website

https://kamisuwa-onsen.com

More details are available there, so please check it out!

2024.12.03 Maruyasu Tanakaya Main Store

Once again, Kasai — a self-confessed foodie — was lured by the sweet aroma and paid a visit to Maruyasu Tanakaya's main store.

Despite his busy schedule, Mr. Tsuchihashi, the company's Managing Director, kindly spoke with us.
The main store sits near Lake Suwa, and they also operate a Kamisuwa Ekimae store near Kami-Suwa Station, giving them two locations in Suwa City. Maruyasu Tanakaya began in 1929 in front of Kami-Suwa Station. This year marks their 95th anniversary, making them a confectionery and cake shop with a proud history.
When you think of Maruyasu Tanakaya, the Cheesecake Entremet, available by mail order, comes to mind! Beauty advisor Chizu Saeki helped bring it wider recognition. The Cheesecake Entremet itself has been a beloved flagship product for 40 years. They offer nationwide shipping, so people across Japan can enjoy it.

Although Maruyasu Tanakaya is strongly associated with Western-style confections, they originally made Japanese sweets. The yokan (sweet bean jelly) preserves recipes from those early days. Because they previously supplied azuki beans and rice, they make yokan from carefully selected azuki beans—please enjoy it as well!
Mr. Tsuchihashi's top recommendation is "Shinano no Kuni" — a butter castella sponge cake studded with chopped chestnuts and coated in a refreshing lemon cream. Named after the prefectural song "Shinano no Kuni," it has been loved for about 50 years. On the side of the wrapping paper you can even see the old provincial name 'Jūshū' (literally 'Ten Provinces'), a reference to the line 'Shinano no kuni wa jūshū ni…' from the prefectural song. I love that packaging so much that I even use the previous design as teaching material (laughs).

Maruyasu Tanakaya offers many sweets and has a seating area. Come and enjoy tea time with friends and savor their treats.

★ Maruyasu Tanakaya Main Store
📍 3-1421-1 Takashima,
Suwa-shi, Nagano Prefecture
☎ 0266-52-0126
◎ Business hours: 10:00 – 19:00
◎ Regular holiday: Closed on Wednesdays
◎ Online shop: https://www.suwa-tanakaya.jp/products/list
◎ Homepage: https://www.suwa-tanakaya.jp/

They have another branch close to Kami-Suwa Station. They started in 1929, so this year is their 95th anniversary. Many Japanese traditional sweets shops have long histories. On this day, Mr. Tsuchihashi, the Managing Director, talked with me.
Their shop’s famous product is Cheesecake Entremet. It has been loved for 40 years. Numerous media and magazines have spotlighted the Cheesecake Entremet. They operate an online shop and offer nationwide shipping, so please enjoy it at home.

I had pictured Maruyasu Tanakaya making Western-style sweets like the Cheesecake Entremet, but I was mistaken. At the beginning, the shop produced Japanese traditional sweets. The yokan remains as it was back then.
Mr. Tsuchihashi’s recommendation is Shinano no Kuni. It is a butter sponge cake with finely chopped chestnuts inside, finished with lemon cream on the outside. Sounds delicious, right? Absolutely!

They offer many kinds of sweets. If you visit Suwa City, please try them—I’m sure you’ll like them!

★ Maruyasu Tanakaya Main Branch
3-1421-1 Takashima,
Suwa-shi, Nagano Prefecture
☎ 0266-52-0126
◎ Business hours: 10:00 – 19:00
◎ Regular holiday: Closed on Wednesdays
◎ Online shop: https://www.suwa-tanakaya.jp/products/list
◎ Homepage: https://www.suwa-tanakaya.jp/

https://www.suwa-tanakaya.jp/products/list
https://www.suwa-tanakaya.jp/

Actually, on December 1st, Kamisuwa Shizune from the “Onsen Musume” project suddenly appeared at the Suwa City Tourist Information Center inside JR Kami‑Suwa Station!!! Her voice actress is Nanaka Suwa!

◆What Onsen Musume Is
Onsen Musume is a regional revitalization project created to promote the attractions of hot spring towns and tourist spots across Japan to domestic and international audiences through various content such as anime, manga, characters, and voice actors.

Previously, Shimosuwa Watanon lived in Shimosuwa Town, but Kamisuwa had not yet appeared. With yesterday’s appearance in Kamisuwa, the twins—Kamisuwa Shizune (older sister) and Shimosuwa Watanon (younger sister)—finally managed to be together yesterday! Thank you for waiting.

At the information center, we sell one can badge per person (up to two) and acrylic keychains (one per person). Customers who purchase a total of 1,500 yen or more will receive an original sticker!

Please come safely! We look forward to welcoming you from the bottom of our hearts!

Nov. 27th in 2024
Today, the gluttonous Kasai went to a Japanese sweets shop for research again!!! It's Engetsu-dou Hompo Fukushima branch! But, everyone, do you notice anything in the pictures? Look! Look!!! I was so excited to go to Engetsu-dou that I forgot to take a picture of the shop's exterior... I'm really driven by my appetite... I'm ashamed... I'll make sure to do it next time!

I spoke with Mrs. Katagiri, the proprietress of Engetsu-dou Hompo! It seems that they started with a different shop name 78 years ago (Showa 21), before it became Engetsu-dou. At first, it was in front of Kamisuwa Station! Four years later, they expanded to Kowada, and eight years after that, to Shimizu. Now, they have the Shimizu store and this Fukushima store, which opened in 1992, offering Japanese sweets at two stores in the city!!!

The proprietress's recommendations are the revived "Kojou Monaka" and "Kabuto Monaka"!!! There are about four types of Monaka, and there are many different kinds. According to the proprietress, "Each Japanese sweets shop has a different red bean paste, so it's fun to try and find your favorite!" Also, she said "Recently, the number of foreign customers has been increasing little by little, and I think they may be paying attention to red bean paste because it is lower in calories than Western-style cream."

◎ Engetsu-dou Hompo Fukushima branch
📍Nakasu-Fukushima, 5398-1
Suwa city, Nagano Pref.
☎ 0266-58-1547
◎ Business hours: 9:00 ~ 19:00
◎ Regular holiday: Shimizu and Fukushima stores, every Tuesday

◎ Engetsu-dou Hompo Shimizu branch
📍Shimizu 1-2-12
Suwa city, Nagano Pref.
☎ 0266-52-1543
◎ Business hours: 9:00 ~ 19:00

Nov. 27th in 2024
Today I went to Engetsu-dou Hompo which is Japanese traditional sweets (Wagashi) shop in Suwa city! “Wa” means Japan. “Gashi” means sweets. So, Japanese traditional sweets call Wagashi? They have two shops in Suwa, Shimizu-machi area and Fukujima area. I went to Fukujima location. Don’t you notice about pictures??? Did you? I was focus for Wagashi… That’s why I forgot to take a picture about Engetsu-dou’s exterior… That’s big mistake! Horrible!!! I’m so sorry about that. I’m gluttony. Wagashi was right front of me, I lost from Wagashi’s temptation. So, I forgot took the shop’s exterior photo…

Ms. Katagiri (landlady) introduce her shop and Wagashi. They founded in 1946. About 78 years. The shop was front of Kamisuwa station. They started with the different name of the shop. It became Engetsu-dou in 1950. Shimizu-machi branch opened in 1958. Fukujima branch opened in 1992.

I asked her, “what is your recommendation Wagashi?” She told me Kojou Monaka and Kabuto Monaka. Monaka is a Japanese sweet that is bean‐jam‐filled wafers. Also, she said “You can enjoy Wagashi every season, and each shop has original sweetened red bean paste. So, you can enjoy to find your favorite shop. Now, gradually increasing foreign customers. I think they realized Wagashi is less than calories compare to cake.”

★ Engetsu-dou Hompo Fukushima branch
📍Nakasu-Fukushima, 5398-1
Suwa city, Nagano Pref.
☎ 0266-58-1547
◎ Business hours: 9:00 ~ 19:00
◎ Regular holiday: Shimizu and Fukushima stores, every Tuesday

★ Engetsu-dou Hompo Shimizu branch
📍Shimizu 1-2-12
Suwa city, Nagano Pref.
☎ 0266-52-1543
◎ Business hours: 9:00 ~ 19:00

Have you all been feeling tired lately???

It may be a little early, but why not plan an evening with friends, partners, or family to see a nationally designated Important Cultural Property lit up?

In December, we will illuminate Katakura-kan in Suwa for six days across three weekends (Dec. 7–8, 14–15, and 21–22, 2024)! Katakura-kan is a nationally designated Important Cultural Property and served as a filming location for the famous hot spring film *Thermae Ro◯e* (title partially obscured in the original).

Wild eel is actually in season right now, and there is a traditional cold 'doyō' period in January (寒の土用), which locals note.

Here’s a suggested plan:
1. Enjoy eel in the Suwa–Okaya area
2. See Katakura-kan illuminated
3. Unwind and refresh from everyday fatigue and stress at Kamisuwa Onsen.
Oh—don’t forget to book your accommodation!

・Period: December 7–8 (Sat–Sun), December 14–15 (Sat–Sun), and December 21–22 (Sat–Sun), 2024.
・Time: 17:00–20:00
* Bathing hours at Katakura-kan end at 20:00. Last admission is at 19:30.

That day, greedy Kawanishi visited a wagashi shop he had long been curious about!
It was Koshido, located in Suehiro, Suwa.
I spoke with President Kurita. To my surprise, this long-established wagashi shop has been in business for 99 years since Taisho 14 (1925). The current president appears to be the third generation. By chance, five days before my visit, a local newspaper ran a story saying students from Suwa Jitsugyo High School had designed the shop’s classic packaging and stickers. Even amid such history, I was charmed by this flexible approach and arranged an appointment.
According to the president, the Suwa Confectioners’ Association once included 60–70 shops, and many were in the city, but now only 17 remain. I want to cherish the wagashi culture left by earlier generations and pass it on. I personally love anko (sweet red bean paste), so I’ve always liked wagashi. That day I learned that wagashi can be enjoyed in every season, and I gained new insights!!! In spring there are sakura-mochi and kashiwa-mochi; for the equinoctial week there are botamochi and ohagi; in autumn there are inoko-mochi and tsutsugayu, and more. I hope to introduce these delicate and delicious wagashi to everyone!

◎ Koshido
📍 Suehiro 12-12-9, Suwa, Nagano Prefecture
☎ 0266-52-0920
◎ Business hours: 9:00 – 18:00
◎ Regular holiday: Closed Wednesdays
◎ Online shop: www.okashi-net.com/mall/koshido/

That day, I went to Koshido, a traditional Japanese confectionery shop in Suwa. Mr. Kurita is the shop’s president and craftsman. The shop has been open for 99 years, and he is the third generation. On November 9th, I saw a newspaper article about the shop: students from Suwa Jitsugyo High School designed stickers for the product.
He told me that long ago there were 60–70 wagashi shops in Suwa city, but now only 17 remain. I feel it’s important to preserve this great tradition for future generations. I didn’t know wagashi could be enjoyed across the four seasons! It’s true. In autumn there are dango, inoko-mochi, and tsutsugayu; in spring there are sakura-mochi and kashiwa-mochi, among others. I still have much to learn about traditional Japanese sweets, and I will continue to write about seasonal wagashi from now on!
◎ KOSHIDO
📍 Suehiro 12-12-9, Suwa, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
◎ Tel: 0266-52-0920
◎ Business hours: 9:00 – 18:00
◎ Regular holiday: Closed on Wednesdays
◎ Online shop: www.okashi-net.com/mall/koshido/

Shikinzan (紫金山) — Comet ATLAS

Did you know that between October 13 and October 26, the comet was visible to the naked eye even in Japan? I, Kawanishi (河西) — a real foodie — was so focused on food that I completely forgot. I'm so sorry. F. N. kindly provided these photos. They are truly lovely🌠 I wish I could take pictures this beautiful! I feel lucky to have been born in a city where scenes like this can be seen. I think it’s a city to be proud of!!!

Does that famous scene from that movie come to mind — the lake and the comet falling? Yes, the film 'Kimi no ◯ wa' (an intentionally obscured reference to 'Your Name'). It's even rumored that this place inspired Lake Itomori, and the site has become a pilgrimage spot for foreign visitors. We received photos of Shikinzan (紫金山) — Comet ATLAS taken from Tateishi Park, so we’re sharing them with you. The comet appears in every picture, so please try to find it!
※ Brightness has been adjusted.

It seems that many skilled photographers gathered at Tateishi Park that day! Some camera lenses cost as much as a small car!!!!! Photography runs deep... My wife scolds me that I hardly use my DSLR, but I will keep working every day to bring you attractive photos of Suwa📷

※ Personally, I use a Nikon D-series (D7100, an older camera but one I love). I would be grateful for any guidance on camera operation, such as how to photograph fireworks or comets...

・Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS

Did you know you could see Tsuchinshan-ATLAS from October 13 to October 26 with the naked eye? A friend kindly shared this photo, taken by F. N. It’s beautiful, moving, and fantastic. I’m so proud of my city and truly happy to have been born in Suwa!!!

Lake and comet—does that famous animated movie come to mind? I know it does: Your Name. She shared these pictures with us, and I want to pass them on. Every photo shows Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, so please try to spot it!!!

That day, so many photographers were at Tateishi Park. One of them told her that a camera lens cost over $6,500!!! Amazing!!! Photography is deeper than it seems. I own a Nikon camera (not very expensive but I love it). I need to study how to take better pictures. I must improve my technique before my wife gets mad at me… I haven’t used my camera recently. I know I need to practice over and over, right?

October 22, 2024
On that day, hungry me—Kawanishi the foodie—braved my appetite (laughs) and visited several of the city’s autumn leaf spots to take photos and share the much-requested “Suwa autumn foliage report.” The morning was sunny, but by the afternoon, perhaps because of my poor habits, it turned cloudy… please forgive me…
The following are my impressions of each spot. They reflect my personal views, so I appreciate your understanding and acceptance.

1. Takashima Castle and Gokoku Shrine — The ginkgo trees showed no color yet and were still very green. The maples only showed the faintest hint of color.

2. Lake Suwa and the lakeside park — I felt the leaves were just beginning to change, but there’s still a long way to go.

3. Katakura-kan — The ginkgo trees are starting to take on a slightly yellow tint, but it still seems early.

4. Tateishi Park — Here, too, the leaves appear to be just beginning to change.

The 23rd was rainy, but the high reached 23°C. Mornings have been warm; this week’s highs are around 20°C and the lows do not drop below 10°C. It seems the foliage may be later than usual by about a week.

Today, I’m updating you about Suwa City’s recent autumn leaf situation. I received several inquiries, so I visited Suwa’s leaf-viewing spots on October 22. The morning was sunny, but I was unlucky—the afternoon turned cloudy. Please forgive me!
Caution: these are my personal impressions; please understand.
1. Takashima Castle and Gokoku Shrine — The ginkgo trees remain very green; only a few leaves are turning yellow.

2. Lake Suwa and Kohan Park — I estimate about 20–30% of the trees have begun changing to yellow and red.

3. Katakura-kan — I estimate about 20–30% of the ginkgo trees around Katakura-kan are gradually turning yellow.

4. Tateishi Park — Similar to Katakura-kan, maples and cherry trees are shifting to red, about 20–30%.
Yesterday was rainy in Suwa, but the temperature reached 23°C (74°F). It wasn’t cold at all—quite surprising. Normally in Suwa around November, temperatures fall below 15°C (59°F). I think this year’s autumn colors are delayed by more than a week compared with a typical year.

Shinyu Onsen L.P. has released “Suwa Taisha Navi,” an app for foreign visitors and domestic tourists.

This in-shrine interactive app supports English, French, Traditional Chinese, and Japanese, and highlights the attractions of the four shrines of Suwa Taisha. The navigator is Suwahime, Suwa City’s official character, who introduces 84 monuments and buildings across the four shrines.

Download the app and launch it on site to hear the explanations; locations you’ve heard are marked with a folding-fan icon. It makes a great travel memory.

Shinyu Onsen L.P. launched the Suwa Taisha Navi app for foreign visitors and domestic tourists.

The app supports Japanese, Traditional Chinese, French, and English and introduces the four shrines (Honmiya, Maemiya, Harumiya, Akimiya). The navigator is Suwahime, Suwa City’s official character, who explains 84 monuments and buildings across the four shrines.

First, download the app and visit any of the four Suwa Taisha shrines. Enable GPS and go to a spot; Suwahime will begin the explanation. After a spot’s explanation, it is marked with a Japanese folding-fan stamp. It’s a lovely way to remember your trip to Suwa and Suwa Taisha—please give it a try!

October 5, 2024 Kami‑Suwa Kaido Town Walk and Sake Stroll

On that day, a major event took over the town of Suwa: the “Kami‑Suwa Kaido Town Walk and Sake Stroll.” Along a one‑kilometer walking radius from JR Kami‑Suwa Station along National Route 20, five of Suwa’s famous breweries stand side by side, and for the event the area from Suwa 2‑chome to the Motomachi traffic lights was turned into a pedestrian zone. The five breweries of Suwa proudly served their signature sakes🍶. This year, a cypress masu (wooden sake box) doubled as a passport, letting visitors enjoy the aroma of hinoki wood while sipping fine sake. The 3,000 tickets sold out by September 30, showing just how popular the event was!!!

Compared with last year, more local restaurants offered snack stalls, and additional stalls were run by neighborhood groups!!!

Although the weather was a little worrying that day, the ticket exchange at 11:00 at Swatchao was lively, and the city began to buzz toward the pedestrian zone start at 12:00. By the official start at 13:00, lines had formed in front of the five breweries as people queued for their preferred labels!!! After opening remarks by Suwa’s mayor and the head of the Chamber of Commerce, the stroll kicked off with Suwa’s customary kiyari work song, and the sake stroll began. The kiyari performers then walked along the kaido, responding to requests and singing until around 17:00🎶 From 14:00, local dance troupes energized the venue. Many guests joined in the dancing, and the sight of everyone enjoying themselves was memorable.
The food stalls drew long queues: yakitori, grilled eel, karaage and sanzokuyaki (mountain warrior‑style fried chicken), chicken wings, game dishes, kushiyaki, candied apples, bento sellers, french fries, yakisoba, and more… The snack stalls were as busy as the sake booths! Good sake paired with delicious local dishes and snacks naturally brought smiles to people’s faces🎶 We met many smiling visitors—thank you very much.

What surprised us most was how little trash there was. From the organizer’s perspective, we picked up litter from JR Kami‑Suwa Station to the far end of the venue just before the event ended, and there seemed to be very little trash on the streets. I believe that resulted from attendees properly sorting and disposing of their waste. As I walked around holding a bag and saying, “If you have any trash, please put it in this bag!” several visitors responded, “Wow, amazing! You even collect trash? Thank you so much.” Those words wiped away my fatigue! I was deeply moved😢

For the next event, our staff will continue striving to ensure guests are satisfied and have a great time, while gaining the understanding and cooperation of local residents so that Suwa’s town can become even more vibrant and lively.

That day, Kawanishi, known for his love of food, restrained his appetite and visited PMOA Co., Ltd., headquartered in Suwa. PMOA is the well-known company that created Suwa City’s official character, Suwa-hime. Yamaoka gave us a tour of the factory and offices.

PMOA, headquartered in Suwa City, is the only hobby manufacturer in Nagano Prefecture. They had been manufacturing plastic molds and parts for automobiles and cameras, but when orders declined during the Lehman shock (the 2008 global financial crisis), the president began to consider whether the company's existing technology could be applied to other businesses. At the same time, the hobby boom—part of Akihabara culture (plastic models, figures, etc.)—was taking off. They created a plastic model of Takashima Castle, beloved by Suwa residents — this marked the beginning of PMOA's production of building plastic models.

With about 40 employees, the company primarily uses plastic molding to manufacture items such as figures, fishing lures and plastic parts for a maker known for bicycle lights. In addition to molding, they also provide services such as signboard printing and vehicle wrapping. They have even wrapped Suwa City municipal vehicles, including one featuring Suwa-hime; some readers may have seen it. They also accept private car-wrap orders, so anyone wanting a truly one-of-a-kind vehicle should consider it.

The company now has its own factory adjacent to the Chino facility, which makes production-stage feedback much smoother and enables rapid response—this is a key strength.
The company's motto is 'Making Japanese towns cute and lively!' Expect them to keep producing many adorable figures and striking plastic models.
※ Factory tour
Date & time: Every Friday at 13:30
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Group size: 2–20 people
Elementary school children and younger: Free
Junior high school students and older: 1,000 yen
◎ Please call at least one week in advance: 0266-78-6481 (Harada or Arai)

まだまだ、残暑が残る異常な感じですが。。。 僕が幼少の頃は、諏訪湖の花火(8/15)が過ぎるともう寒くもなり秋を感じる諏訪でしたが、今日も何故か最高気温３０℃。。。🥵 暑い日が続きます。 少し早いですが、食いしん坊河西の“食欲の秋”を我慢して、皆さんに諏訪の紅葉をご紹介させて頂こうと思います。

諏訪は、盆地もあり諏訪湖は山々に囲まれている都市です。 紅葉も、色んな種類の木々があり、同じ赤でも違った色を魅せてくれるのでが、紅葉の醍醐味ですね!!! イチョウも多く、“黄葉”なんて呼ばれてもおります。 諏訪湖の近く、千人風呂で有名な片倉館には、イチョウがあり、とても美しく黄葉が楽しめます。

霧ヶ峰では、ススキが皆様を迎えてくれます。 また、霧ヶ峰高原などの高原地帯も涼しくなると空気が澄んできますので、南アルプスや、北アルプス、中央アルプス、富士山、八ヶ岳など、名だたる山々が望めるのが霧ヶ峰の霧鐘塔や、薙鎌神社がオススメです🏔

是非皆さん、紅葉を観に諏訪にお越し下さい！ 是非、皆さんのオススメの諏訪の紅葉スポットを教えて下さい！ Instagramで #visitsuwaautumn で投稿して頂けると嬉しいです!!!

It’s still hot in here Suwa city. It is abnormal!!! When I was child, after Lake Suwa’s firework festival gradually to change to autumn. But, today is still 30 Celsius… Hopefully, autumn should come soon!!! I’ll introduce to Suwa’s autumn leaves.

The Suwa city is basin surrounded by mountains. We have so many kinds of trees. So, you can see many kinds of autumn leaves red color. Do you know what color will be change ginkgo leaf? It will be change to green to yellow. You can see ginkgo trees autumn leaves! It is also beautiful!!! Near the Lake Suwa, we have Katakura-kan(they are famous for building and hot spring) they have gingko tree and maple. You’ll see red(maple) and yellow(ginkgo) color harmony with historical building. How awesome spot it is!!!

At the Kirigamine, you’ll see Japanese pampas grass all over the place. That’s seasonal tradition. At the Mushou tower or Nagikama shrine, you are going to see fantastic view. You may see Northern alps, Central alps, Southern alps, Yatsugatake peaks and Mt, Fuji!!! Can you believe that??? Trust me! “Seeing is Believing” If it is sunny, you’ll see all these mountains 360-degree view!!! I recommend to Mushou tower or Nagikama Shrine.

Please come to see autumn leaves in Suwa. And tell me your favorite autumn leaves spot in Suwa. Then put #visitsuwaautumn to post to Instagram!!!

Sano-kaze Shinshu Teyaki Senbei Honpo

On this day, food lover Kasai visited Shinshu Teyaki Senbei Honpo. This hand-baked senbei shop has been at this location for about 35 years. On the day, President Hiroko Kitahara, who also bakes the senbei, showed us around.
Stepping inside, the first thing that struck me was the wide variety. For a true senbei fan like Kasai, the selection was almost bewildering 🍘. Among them were many kinds, including shimi senbei and lacquered senbei.

Popular No.1 is nori
No.2 is twice-dipped
No.3 is apple senbei
Next is nozawana wasabi

Nozawana wasabi is quite unusual, isn’t it? You often see nozawana in prefectural souvenir shops, but “nozawana wasabi” is rare. Apple, nozawana, and wasabi are all Nagano specialties. Quince is a specialty of Suwa. Apricot, matcha, white sugar, brown sugar, shichimi, ichimi, miso, negi miso, walnut miso, garlic, and more… There may be more varieties here than anywhere else in Nagano Prefecture.
Kasai’s recommendations are “garlic” and “twice-dipped.” The garlic offers a subtle garlic aroma, while the twice-dipped has a rich, well-infused flavor that lets you enjoy the savory depth of soy sauce. Because they are hand-baked, the texture is superb—this shop is recommended for those who like firm senbei.

Among the standout items is “Fukutoku”!!! Some of you may recognize the name “Fukutoku.” It was made by President Kitahara’s grandfather. Unlike fortune cookies, Fukutoku contains a lucky charm inside!!! President Kitahara has apparently succeeded in reviving it in her generation, wanting to restore it somehow.
And above all, Shinshu Teyaki Senbei Honpo is hand-baked and right in front of the Grand Shrine!!! They sell by hand, and the shop sits very close to the torii of the Main Shrine ⛩. When visiting Suwa Grand Shrine’s Main Shrine, be sure to look for your favorite flavor or souvenirs at Shinshu Teyaki Senbei Honpo, and take a stroll along the North Approach.

◎ Shinshu Teyaki Senbei Honpo
📍 201 Nakasu, Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture 392-0015 (Suwa Grand Shrine North Approach)
☎ 0266-58-1235
Hours: Weekdays 9:30 AM–4:30 PM (may vary)
: Sat, Sun, and holidays 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
◎ Closed: Open year-round

On this day, foodie Kawanishi visited Tokoro Terrace in Shiga Akanuma, Suwa, Nagano Prefecture.

This stylish spot, known in Suwa for selling kanten, also houses a cafe and dining area.☕
Tokoro Terrace promotes making kanten part of everyday life with the motto “bringing kanten closer to you.”
The person who introduced the shop that day was manager Kurane. Next to the shop and cafe is a factory specializing in tokoroten, so the tokoroten served here comes fresh from the adjacent factory!!! I dislike vinegar-and-soy dressing, and since I learned about kuromitsu I’ve been hooked♪ It’s virtually zero calories (excluding the kuromitsu lol)!!!

Kanten comes in many forms—block kanten (bō kanten), string kanten, and powdered kanten—and it’s a versatile ingredient you can add to rice, miso soup, or salads. As a child, I couldn’t wait for the school lunch day with mandarin orange milk kanten and used to pace around the serving area... Kanten provides dietary fiber and doesn’t overpower other ingredients, so it shines in main dishes, appetizers, and desserts alike—truly the Shohei Ohtani of the ingredient world!!! That day I found a pack of 100 sticks of kanten; some customers buy that size a few times a year!!! The quantity and enormity were astounding lol
At the cafe, they use that kanten in tokoroten, cream anmitsu (their most popular item), soft serve, and even the hugely popular pudding. They serve lunch (11:00–14:00), where a salad with added kanten enhances the flavors of the main dish. The place is welcoming to men and has counter seating, so you can easily enjoy a casual cafe visit or lunch.🍴 You can also enjoy coffee made from beans by Yuhigahama Coffee of Matsumoto alongside the sweets, so try them together.☕

The entire shop is barrier-free, so customers in wheelchairs can enter with confidence. Many visitors come in three generations—grandmother, mother, and grandchild—and enjoy the cafe together.
Why not consider this as a souvenir from Suwa?

◎ Tokoro Terrace
📍 1545-1 Shiga, Suwa (5-minute drive from Suwa I.C. toward Lake Suwa; parking for 40 cars)
☎ 0266-52-1056
◎ Hours: 10:00–18:00
・ Shop hours: 10:00–18:00
・ Cafe hours: 10:00–17:00 (Lunch 11:00–14:30)
◎ Closed: Thursdays and during the New Year holidays (Dec 31–Jan 2)
◎ Online shop available.