2026 Ueda Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

After marveling at the spectacular Kiyomizu Stage, slow down and explore the Higashiyama area where it is located. This area hides countless corners where you can immerse yourself in the essence of Kyoto, from Zen meditation to kimono wearing, from tea ceremony to antique markets. 📍 Core Area: Kiyomizu-dera and surrounding Higashiyama cultural district 📅 Theme: Deep immersion in Kyoto traditional culture 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Highlights: Zen experience + kimono dress-up + antique treasure hunting + visits to lesser-known temples 🎎 Selected deep cultural experience programs: 1. Zen moments inside temples: · Kōdai-ji Temple “Zazen” experience: Kōdai-ji regularly offers public zazen (seated meditation) guidance in English/Japanese. In the tranquil temple, learning to adjust your breathing with your children and feeling a moment of focus and calm is a very unique experience. · Chishaku-in “sutra copying” experience: Next to a national treasure-level garden, calmly copy a Buddhist sutra by hand. You can take your completed work home as a wonderful keepsake. 2. The art of transformation and walking: · Kimono rental in Higashiyama: Rent a kimono near Kiyomizu-dera, then wear it to explore the alleys around Yasaka Pagoda (Hōkan-ji), such as Chawan-zaka, where there are fewer tourists and you can take more atmospheric photos. · Japanese dance experience: A few cultural studios offer short traditional Japanese dance lessons, where you can learn some basic moves and feel the rhythm of the body. 3. The fun of markets and treasure hunting: · Chion-in “Handmade Market” (15th of every month): If your timing is right, don’t miss this largest handmade market in Kyoto held inside Chion-in. Hundreds of stalls selling ceramics, textiles, food, and full of everyday life vibes. · Antique shops on Sannenzaka: Behind the main streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, there are some small antique and secondhand shops where you might find vintage Kiyomizu-yaki small plates or Japanese-style trinkets. 4. The serene beauty of lesser-known temples: · Entoku-in: Adjacent to Kōdai-ji, it features two types of gardens, a northern dry landscape garden and a southern pond stroll garden. Small and exquisite, with few visitors and peaceful. · Anraku-ji: A quiet small temple famous for its sal tree pair, stunning in summer bloom and showing a lonely beauty in winter. 🗺️ “Cultural Practice” one-day proposal: · Morning: Early visit to Kiyomizu-dera (7-8 am) → Experience yudofu (tofu hot pot) at Okutan Kiyomizu or Junsei. · Afternoon: Head to Kōdai-ji for zazen experience (reservation required) → Stroll along Ninenzaka and visit Entoku-in. · Evening: If it’s the day of the handmade market, go to Chion-in; if not, take a walk around Gion Shirakawa, chance upon a maiko, and dine at a traditional old shop. 🏡 Cultural immersive accommodation extensions: Kyoto Tawaraya Ryokan: With a 300-year history, acclaimed as Japan’s top ryokan, it is the ultimate hall to experience traditional “omotenashi” (exquisite hospitality) culture. Kyoto Hiiragiya Ryokan: A top-tier ryokan on par with Tawaraya, where literary giant Yasunari Kawabata once stayed long-term, full of literary and historical atmosphere. Kyoto Seikoro: Also historically rich, located by the Kamo River, famous for its exquisite garden and authentic hot springs. 🍱 First Kaiseki experience: · In the Higashiyama area, choose a restaurant offering lunch kaiseki sets, such as Roan Kikunoi (Higashiyama branch), which is relatively more affordable than dinner and a great chance to experience the essence of Kyoto cuisine. 💡 Deep travel parent memo: · Reservation is key: Zazen, sutra copying, high-end dining, etc., must be booked several days or even weeks in advance. · Respect the rules: Strictly follow venue regulations during cultural activities, keep quiet, and listen to instructions. · Interest guidance: Choose experiences based on your child’s personality. Active kids may not suit long meditation but might enjoy treasure-hunting style market strolls. · Cultural preparation: Before the trip, watch picture books or short videos about Japanese temples, gardens, and tea ceremony with your children to greatly enhance the on-site experience. Step out of the travel guide checklist and live like a “cultural visitor” in Kyoto for a few days. You will find that Kiyomizu-dera is more than just a scenic spot; it is a door to a delicate, profound, and ritual-filled ancient world.

Known as Nagano Prefecture's "Treasure Trove of Japanese Cuisine," Ueda City boasts not only a rich history but also a wealth of delightful authentic souvenirs and gourmet shops hidden within its streets and alleyways. This time, we'll focus on visiting Okazaki Shuzo and Iijima Shoten, immersing ourselves in the unwavering dedication of local craftsmen. From award-winning sake to signature desserts crafted with Shinshu apples, every bite is a testament to the region's pride! Recommended Attractions 1. Okazaki Shuzo Co., Ltd. Located at 4-7-33 Chuo Street in Ueda City, Okazaki Shuzo is a must-see for sake lovers, highly recommended even by locals. Not only can you experience traditional sake brewing, but you can also purchase award-winning sake directly, limited to one bottle per person. Colorful sake cups are also available, making them a great souvenir to take home. 📍Address: 4-7-33 Chuo, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture 396-0012 ⏰Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (year-round) 2. Misuzuame Hompo Iijima Shoten Ueda Honten Specializing in 100% fruit juice gummy candies with a variety of fruit flavors, they're perfect for children or those with a healthy sweet tooth. This shop preserves the traditional Shinshu handmade confectionery techniques, allowing you to savor the natural sweetness of the fruit. 📍Address: Near Ueda Station 3. Shinshu Apple Pie Laboratory Shinshu apple pie is a local specialty! The Apple Pie Research Institute uses fresh local apples, resulting in a crispy crust and juicy filling. We recommend buying freshly baked ones; the crust is even more fragrant when eaten fresh. 📍Address: 2-4-12 Chuo, Ueda City Practical Tips Getting There: From JR Ueda Station in downtown Ueda, you can walk to Okazaki Shuzo and Iijima Shoten in about 10-15 minutes, making it a great stop for exploring the city. Buses are also easily accessible; use Google Maps to find stops. Food Recommendations: In addition to marshmallows and apple pies, there are many Japanese izakayas hidden around Okazaki Shuzo. For dinner, try sake with yakitori – a perfect pairing. There are also popular Japanese confectionery shops near Iijima Shoten, so you can buy some to enjoy at your hotel. Review of Tips: 1. When choosing sake, be sure to ask the staff about new releases and limited editions; there's a wide selection available on-site. 2. Marshmallows come in a variety of flavors, so try a mixed bag to take home for a party. 3. We recommend sampling the apple pie right out of the oven; it's best fresh out of the oven. #UedaFoodGuide #ShinshuSake #Don'tMissTheApplePie #JellyMushroomSouvenir #NaganoTravel

Utsukushigahara Highland is a plateau located in the northwestern part of Yatsugatake Chushin Kogen Quasi-National Park, spanning Matsumoto City, Ueda City, and Nagawa Town in Nagano Prefecture. It is also one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains. The expansive grasslands feature a ranch and the popular photo spot, Utsukushi-no-Tou (Tower of Beauty). Early mornings are particularly magical, with mist creating a dreamy atmosphere. It’s about a one-hour drive from downtown Matsumoto. If you’re visiting Matsumoto, this is a must-see destination worth extending your trip for. 📍Utsukushigahara Highland Free Parking Address: 2085-70 Takeishi Kamihoniri, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture Hours: Open 24 hours (Overnight stays in your car are possible. Staying overnight is recommended for those who want to catch the sunrise.)

[Utsukushigahara Plateau] in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture It has free parking and is famous for being able to see a beautiful sunrise It's a bit of a walk from your car to the summit, but the path is well-maintained and very easy to walk on, so you can climb like you're hiking🚶♀️ The view from the summit is spectacular, and you can see the mountains in the distance clearly💗 It's quite cold at the summit, so dress warmly when climbing☺️ #0 yen trip January 2025 📍Location: Takeishikamimotoiri, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture 386-0507 🕰️Opening hours: 24 hours 💰Price per person: Free 🅿️: Free parking available

_________ Bessho Onsen, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture 📍Anrakuji Temple 📸 2024/09/01 _________ At Anrakuji Temple in Bessho Onsen, if you make a reservation in advance, you can experience zazen from 6am...! *Reservations must be made 5 days in advance On the way to the zazen, the stairs leading to Anrakuji Temple, illuminated by the morning light, were very beautiful📷´- As I climbed the stairs, Anrakuji Temple came into view I listened to a wonderful priest talk about zazen and then the zazen experience began 15 minutes of nothingness... It seems short but it's a long time... It's quite difficult to empty your mind💦 𓐍𓂃𓈒𓂂𖤣𖤥𖠿𖤣𖤥𓂃◌𓈒𓐍𓂃𓈒𓂂𖤣𖤥𖠿𖤣𖤥𓂃◌𓈒𓐍𓂃𓈒𓂂 【　　 🚃 Bessho Onsen Anrakuji Templeﾟ´-　　】 📍Address 2361 Bessho Onsen, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture 🗺Access About a 20-minute walk from Bessho Onsen Station ⏰Time 6:00am - 6:30am *Not held during winter (November - March) 🎟.·Price 500 yen per person 🔖Point Anrakuji Temple is famous for its national treasure octagonal three-story pagoda, and for being the oldest Zen temple in Nagano Prefecture. 𓐍𓂃𓈒𓂂𖤣𖤥𖠿𖤣𖤥𓂃◌𓈒𓐍𓂃𓈒𓂂𖤣𖤥𖠿𖤣𖤥𓂃◌𓈒𓐍𓂃𓈒𓂂 ______________________ #Nagano outing spot #Ueda #Ueda City #Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture #Bessho Onsen #Anrakuji Temple #Nagano trip #Camera girl #Couple trip #Photo walk trip #Outing spot #Weekend outing spot #Free travel

Built by Sanada Masayuki in the late 16th century during the Azuchi-Momoyama period. Ueda Castle is the castle that defeated Tokugawa Hidetada's army. Staff members dressed as Sanada Masayuki will welcome you. There are many tourist attractions in Ueda, including Bessho Onsen, Kitamuki Kannon, the Kawanakajima battlefield, Utsukushigahara Highlands, an observation deck in the Alps with a 360-degree panoramic view, and Chausuyama Zoo, a zoo in the forest.

This is a walk around the town of Ueda Castle, which was built by Sanada Masayuki in the late 16th century during the Azuchi-Momoyama period. There are also old-style cafes nearby, so you can spend some relaxing time here♪

There are many free activities to enjoy at Ogatoh Hotel in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture. One of them is snowmobile cruising. In winter, Utsukushigahara is covered in a blanket of silver. Why not enjoy the endless snowscape on a snowmobile? Address: 8964 Iriyamabe, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture (Shuttle bus available from Matsumoto Station) #Nagano #Matsumoto #Ogatoh #NaganoHotel #OgatohHotel #BreathtakingView

A report on the meal at the cloud-top resort, Ogato Hotel! I stayed in a suite, so I ate in my room. 😊 The course meal was brought to the dining room. Their specialty is seasonal dishes made with Shinshu brand ingredients! ✨The Ogato Hotel's signature "Grilled Salt Trout" was especially delicious, freshly grilled right in front of me.♫ Address: 8964 Iriyamabe, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture (Shuttle bus available from Matsumoto Station) #Nagano #Matsumoto #Ogato #NaganoHotel #OgatoHotel #GourmetTrip #Gourmet

An exquisite stay at a resort above the clouds! ✨ I stayed at Ogato Hotel in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture! The room was a suite. It was spacious, with a living room, dining room where you can enjoy in-room dining, and a bedroom. And there was even a bath where you could soak while gazing at the sea of ​​clouds. ♨️ We had a truly relaxing time. Address: 8964 Iriyamabe, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture (Shuttle bus available from Matsumoto Station) #Nagano #Matsumoto #Ogato #NaganoHotel #OgatoHotel

Ueda Castle Ruins Park in Nagano Prefecture Ueda City in Nagano Prefecture became a popular tourist destination after the 2016 NHK historical drama Sanada Maru. Ueda Castle Ruins Park is a very large park that is free to enter if you just want to visit. It is especially recommended during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Ueda Castle Ruins Park Ninomaru 2, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture #Free Spot

The shop is called Fuji Ice, but their Jimanyaki (similar to Imagawayaki in Tokyo) has more red bean paste than I've ever seen in my life, and it's only 100 yen! Eating it fresh, warm, and soft is pure bliss. No one was eating the soft serve ice cream when I was there, but it was refreshing and delicious. It's easy to see why there's a line at this shop. There are benches on the street in front, which is great for a break during a stroll. #DomesticTravel #NaganoGourmet

📅 Itinerary June (Birthday celebration trip for Mom & Sis 🎂) Day 1: Shopping & dog run at Michi-no-Eki Otogi-no-Sato ➔ Stroll through Ueda Castle Ruins Park ➔ Check in at Wan Wan Resort Shinshu Ueda 🏨 Day 2: Relax at the hotel ➔ Lunch at the incredibly delicious "Nagai" for soba after checkout 🥢 ➔ A short trip to the Oyaki Factory 🏭 🏨 Accommodation Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Wan Wan Resort Shinshu Ueda 🐶 (The ultimate hotel where you can stay with your pup anywhere in the building as long as they have a leash and manner pants on! There are three indoor and outdoor dog runs for them to zoom around in ✨) 🍴 Gourmet Spots ・Hotel Dinner & Breakfast Buffet 🍴 (Total satisfaction for the humans! Local specialties like oyaki and Shinshu soba were so delicious I was completely stuffed... lol) ・Dog Menu (Meat Plate) 🥩 (We treated our pup to this, and she dug in with more enthusiasm than I’ve ever seen! It was so good I’m worried she’s become a gourmet dog now 🤤 lol) ・Handmade Juwari Soba "Nagai" 🥢 (Humans only while the dog stayed behind, but this is honestly the best soba shop in Ueda—highly recommended!) 📌 Useful Info A "Girls + Dog (♀)" trip to Shinshu Ueda planned as a birthday gift for my mom and sister! Ueda City is packed with dog-friendly spots like the massive dog run at Michi-no-Eki Otogi-no-Sato and scenic strolls through Ueda Castle Ruins Park 🐾 The biggest plus at Wan Wan Resort was being able to bring the dog into the restaurant! The Shinshu specialty oyaki at the human buffet was so good that my sister ended up eating four of them and was totally full 😂 Our pup cleared her plate at unbelievable speed, clearly thrilled by the real meat (I was relieved she still ate her dry food once we got home! lol). Even though this was supposed to be a gift trip, there’s a theory that the dog got the best deal with that delicious meat plate (lol), but we all had the best time making memories together ❤️🔥

📍Ougatou Hotel (Nagano Prefecture) South Wing Japanese-Western Room Known as one of the most sought-after hotels with limited availability, I was incredibly lucky to snag a room through a cancellation! I can totally see why so many guests keep coming back. I’m already planning to return in winter to see the landscape covered in snow ❄️ · -------------------------------- 《Highlights》 ◼︎ Breathtaking Sunrises and Starry Skies Waking up an hour before dawn to witness a sky full of stars gradually blending into a stunning red gradient is an absolute must-see! ✨ Sipping warm coffee at the cafe (open only for sunrise) while watching the colors shift across the horizon was pure bliss ☕️🌅 ・ ◼︎ Incredible Free Activities From guided alpine plant tours to refreshing early morning walks, there are so many free activities to choose from! 🍃 The staff’s insights make exploring the vast nature of Utsukushigahara even more rewarding 🚶 ・ ◼︎ Warm Hospitality and Exquisite Cuisine From the welcome drink to the multi-course dinner, every meal was phenomenal 😋 The dishes, featuring an abundance of local flavors, were truly soul-satisfying 🍲 · -------------------------------- 《Access》 Approx. 75 minutes via free shuttle bus from JR Matsumoto Station 🚌 · Private cars are restricted in the area, so it's best to use the pre-booked free shuttle bus!

A real review from a stay for two women. Hope this helps with your next trip or business travel! 📍Location Right in front of Ueda Station—you can't miss it. Take the pedestrian walkway from the plaza directly to the 2nd-floor lobby. If you're driving, there’s a partner city parking lot right next door. 🥰What we loved The hotel is clean throughout. While the 19㎡ room is compact, the layout is excellent. Instead of a sofa, there’s a table and chairs, which was super handy for meals. Plenty of hangers and outlets! They have a great selection of loaner items like hair irons and garment steamers. You can grab amenities in the lobby and pajamas from each floor—a great eco-friendly (SDGs) touch. It's perfect even for last-minute stays. The TV supports YouTube and Netflix, and the fold-out mirror is a thoughtful touch for women.✨ 😣The drawbacks The biggest dealbreaker was the bathroom drainage. It clogged after just one hair wash, which is a pain when two people are sharing the room. I think the drain itself is just too small. There was also a slightly musty smell in the bathroom—might have just been my room, but it was a bit disappointing. Aside from that, it was almost perfect. Newer business hotels might be small, but they really nail the convenience factor. 🏨Hotel: Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nagano Ueda-Ekimae 📍Address: 1-8-2 Tenjin, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture 💰Price: Twin room approx. 16,000 JPY/night

If you’re planning a road trip through Nagano’s Tateshina or Yatsugatake regions, you absolutely have to stop by Tateshina Jiyu Noen (Chino Branch)🚗🌿 While the Tateshina Highlands and the foothills of Mount Yatsugatake are famous as cool summer retreats, they are also some of Japan’s premier regions for high-altitude vegetable farming. This massive farmers’ market is packed with fresh produce harvested straight from the Yatsugatake area, alongside a huge variety of unique Shinshu specialties! Walking in, the first thing you notice is just how massive the place is…! You’ll find everything from local farmers’ daikon and leafy greens to seasonal treats like the giant, juicy grapes pictured here🍇 There’s something special about shopping for seasonal produce right where it’s grown. What’s even more impressive is that it’s not just about fruits and veggies. The selection of Nagano’s best is incredible: Jersey milk from the Nobeyama Highlands, ice cream from Nagano Farm, local wines, shichimi spices, processed goods, and souvenirs🥛🍷🍨 I was even shocked to find bear meat for sale! It’s fun just walking around discovering items you’d never see in a typical supermarket. The local wine selection is particularly impressive. It’s the perfect one-stop shop for anyone looking to bring home authentic Nagano souvenirs. The seasonal variety is a huge draw too—wild mountain vegetables in the spring, and local mountain mushrooms from the Yatsugatake foothills in the fall🌿🍄 Located right along the Venus Line—which connects Tateshina Highlands, Kirigamine, and Utsukushigahara—the Chino branch is a super convenient pit stop during any Yatsugatake sightseeing tour. 📍 Tateshina Jiyu Noen (Chino Branch) 3905-1 Yonezawa, Chino, Nagano Prefecture If you’re traveling through Nagano by car, treat it like a roadside station and stop by! Beyond just buying groceries, it’s a place where you can genuinely enjoy exploring and discovering what’s delicious in Shinshu right now☺️ Make sure to add it to your itinerary next time you’re heading toward Tateshina or Yatsugatake!🚗✨ Chino Branch Highlands

Meigahara Plateau🌿 You can usually take the bus up from Matsumoto, and in the summer you can also take the bus directly from Ueda City, no reservation required ~ It has the highest elevation service area and rest stops in Japan. Being tall enough, the whole environment is cool enough to escape the city and the heat and get a breath of fresh air. A must try when you come here is ranch ice cream🍦! As you walk, you can see cows and horses when you reach the top of the mountain. It's perfect for couples to date or family outings! If you have time, you can visit the art gallery, there are many different art installations at the top of the hill, the walk is full of surprises ~ 【Meihara Plateau】 Address: Matsumoto, Ueda, Nagano Prefecture (plateau spans both regions) Access: About 1.5 hours by bus from Matsumoto Station / There is also a direct bus to Ueda City in summer Gallery opening hours: April to November each year (times are subject to weather adjustment)

This article will explain the highlights of Ueda Castle in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture (famous as the setting for the drama "Sanada Maru"), the Sanada Shrine located on the castle grounds, and the castle's symbolic giant helmet, divided into four points. We will deliver a full look at the charm of this impregnable castle that repelled the Tokugawa army. 1. The imposing presence of the "Sanada Stone" at the East Tiger Gate Tower The "Sanada Stone," a massive stone approximately 2.5 meters high and 3 meters wide, is incorporated into the stone wall of the eastern entrance (East Tiger Gate Tower) of the main keep. When Sanada Nobuyuki, the older brother of Sanada Yukimura (Nobushige), was transferred to the Matsushiro Domain, he tried to take it with him as a memento of his father, Masayuki. However, legend remains that even with the strength of tens of thousands of laborers, it could not be moved, making it a must-see spot for Sanada fans. 2. The "Mechanism for Countering the Enemy" that Twice Outmaneuvered the Tokugawa Army Ueda Castle is backed by a natural cliff overlooking the Amagafuchi, a tributary of the Chikuma River. Against enemies approaching from the east, a "warrior's waiting area" (a space for soldiers to be stationed) was positioned in the second bailey, and furthermore, moats, earthworks, and stone walls strictly controlled the enemy's entry routes. This complex layout created a system that lured invading enemies into dead ends, allowing for effective crossfire from multiple directions. 3. The "Sanada Shrine" that Embodies the Good Fortune of an Impregnable Castle The "Sanada Shrine," located on the site of the main bailey, enshrines successive lords of the castle, including Sanada Masayuki and his son Yukimura. Due to its history of withstanding two fierce attacks by the Tokugawa army, it has become a power spot in modern times, known as the "Unconquerable Castle," attracting students praying for success in exams and people from all over Japan praying for victory before important competitions. 4. The overwhelming presence of the "Giant Sanada Red Helmet" The most eye-catching feature on the grounds of Sanada Shrine is the gigantic red helmet, approximately 2 meters in diameter, modeled after the "Sanada Red Helmet," a symbol of Lord Sanada Yukimura. The vermilion body, synonymous with the Sanada clan, is faithfully reproduced with impressive deer antlers and the six-coin emblem. It's a very popular photo spot for tourists. #UedaCastle #castle #japan #Nagano

📍Itinerary Day 1 Arrive in Ueda city and check in. Visit the iconic Ueda castle ruins Stroll through Sanada Shrine and immerse yourself in the Sengoku Sanada culture Wander the retro Yanagida historic street, fully soaking in the Japanese old-town atmosphere Head to Bessho Onsen in the evening to soak in the thousand-year-old hot spring and relieve travel fatigue Enjoy the warm lights of the old street at night and savor the peaceful small-town nightscape Day 2 Relax with a morning soak in the Asayu hot spring and breathe in the fresh mountain air Visit the Ueda City Museum for an in-depth look at local history and culture Leisurely explore the hot spring street, browse handmade shops and long-established wagashi stores Take a slow walk through city alleys to experience the everyday life of a Japanese small town before heading back 🏨Accommodation recommendations Century-old hot spring inn: featuring the thousand-year-old hot spring, includes one night with two meals, offering a Japanese healing resort experience Comfortable city hotel: close to the station, convenient for travel, ideal for short trips Affordable Japanese guesthouse: clean and cozy, great value, a top choice for niche travelers 🍜Food recommendations Signature hand-rolled soba noodles, authentic mountain vegetable set meals Rich miso hot pot, Japanese charcoal-grilled skewers Exquisite traditional wagashi, local sake, authentic regional flavors without risk 💡Travel tips 1. Ueda is a hidden gem with very few tourists, offering an excellent travel experience 2. It’s best to book hot spring inns in advance; those including breakfast and dinner offer the best value 3. The spring cherry blossoms and autumn maple seasons offer stunning scenery perfect for Japanese-style photos 4. Very close to Nagano, so you can combine sightseeing in Nagano for a fuller trip Avoid the crowds and head to this healing Japanese old town. Perfect for a short trip to copy exactly!

I stayed for a night in June. The weather was mostly cloudy on our first day, but we were able to have our luggage transported by bus from the parking lot to the hotel. This allowed us to enjoy a leisurely hour-long walk, taking in the sights of the pasture and the Utsukushi-no-Tou (Tower of Beauty). The path is mostly flat, making it a wonderful stroll where you can truly appreciate the scenery. Our room offered a breathtaking, sweeping view of the Northern Alps. That alone made the trip completely worth it. Before dinner, we relaxed with welcome drinks and enjoyed the private bath. For dinner, we were served a chopstick-friendly course meal featuring local Shinshu ingredients. Every dish was meticulously prepared and absolutely delicious. The next morning, we watched the sunrise with coffee and muffins, followed by a tour of the blooming Japanese azalea fields. From these morning activities to breakfast, we had such a fulfilling time. On our way back, we took the bus to the parking lot but decided to hop off halfway for a short, pleasant walk. We were able to savor the beautiful landscapes of Utsukushigahara right up until the end. What stood out the most was the warm hospitality from all the staff. They were so friendly and approachable, making our stay incredibly comfortable. It’s easy to see why this hotel is so hard to book—I would absolutely love to stay here again.

The Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum is a highly recommended spot for museum enthusiasts and art lovers alike. Located in Nagano Prefecture, it's about a 1.5-hour drive from Matsumoto and just under an hour from Ueda. 　 After navigating the winding mountain roads, you'll suddenly encounter a vast open space displaying countless works of art. 🏤 Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum → After purchasing your ticket, step out from the building into the garden to come face-to-face with the art. You can enjoy masterpieces by both domestic and international artists in a luxurious setting that borrows the spectacular Japanese Alps as its backdrop. It's a space you can fully enjoy even if you aren't an art expert. It leaves you with a magical sensation, almost as if you are standing above the clouds. Believe it or not, admission to the museum is only 1,000 yen. I guarantee the experience will be worth far more than the price of the ticket. Be sure to pay it a visit.

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Japan isn’t just about bustling cities — it’s also home to some of the most breathtaking hiking routes, where nature quietly takes center stage. At Utsukushigahara Highlands, endless green plateaus stretch beneath wide open skies. The trails are gentle and beginner-friendly, yet the views feel grand — on clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance. Further south, Mount Nokogiri offers a more dramatic experience. Known for its steep cliffs and the famous “Hell’s Peek” viewpoint, this hike blends adventure with spirituality, as ancient temples are hidden among the rocks. If you’re looking for something peaceful, Mount Misen is a perfect escape. The trail winds through lush forests and giant stones, opening up to stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea — quiet, calm, and almost meditative. And then there’s Shosenkyo Gorge, often called one of the most beautiful gorges in Japan. Walking along the river, surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls, feels like stepping into a living painting. ⸻ ✨ Each route has its own rhythm — from easy scenic walks to more adventurous climbs — but all share the same quiet magic that makes Japan’s nature so unforgettable #japantrip #travel2026 #staycation

A hot spring I've been wanting to visit but haven't been able to because it's too far away Even though it's deep in the mountains of Nagano, the parking lot was full and it was very popular. They also hold many events, and I love their website; it's very stylish. Jizō Onsen Spa JippukuNoYu is a popular day-trip hot spring surrounded by forest, located at Jizō Pass (elevation 975m) in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture. Its main attraction is its spacious open-air bath, said to be one of the largest in Nagano Prefecture, where you can relax while enjoying a forest bath. · Address: 9097-70, Sanada-machi, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture · Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Last entry 8:30 PM) · Parking: 150 spaces

For fans of Japan's Sengoku (Warring States) period, a visit to Nagano's Ueda Castle is the ultimate pilgrimage to ignite your inner "Sanada soul"! Despite its seemingly modest scale, this flatland castle hides unbelievable defensive prowess. Back in the day, Sanada Masayuki leveraged brilliant strategies and the natural terrain to twice repel Tokugawa forces that vastly outnumbered his own. It stands as one of the most legendary, adrenaline-pumping underdog stories in Sengoku history. Walking through the imposing Higashi-Koguchi Yagura Gate and touching the massive, legendary "Sanada Stone" will leave you deeply moved by that unyielding samurai spirit. Today, the castle ruins are not only designated as one of Japan's Top 100 Castles, but they also serve as a relaxing public park. The Sanada Shrine on the grounds is a massively popular spot for visitors praying for "certain victory." It is especially magical in the spring when the famous "Senbonzakura" (Thousand Cherry Trees) are in full bloom, creating a truly dreamy scene of delicate pink petals contrasting with the ancient gates. This is a magnificent historic castle that doesn't rely on a flashy main keep to impress; instead, it captures your heart with its legacy of tactical genius and sheer resilience. It is absolutely worth experiencing in person!

This is Bessho Onsen in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan, also affectionately known as "Little Kamakura of Shinshu." It is the oldest thousand-year-old secret hot spring town in Nagano. The entire town is surrounded by green mountains and lush vegetation, with cherry blossoms and wisteria blooming along the quaint Japanese machiya houses. Stone-paved paths, vintage hot spring buildings, and countryside slopes stretching toward distant mountains make time pass especially slowly here. There are no crowded crowds, only the healing, relaxed atmosphere of the Japanese countryside. 🌿Simple Travel Tips 🍃Transportation Guide Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo for about 75 minutes directly to Ueda Station, then transfer to a local train for half an hour to reach Bessho Onsen Station. You can explore the entire town on foot right after exiting the station. 🍃Best Time to Visit Spring cherry blossoms, early summer fresh greenery, and autumn foliage are all perfect for visiting. It is recommended to reserve half a day to a full day for a leisurely stroll without rushing. 🍃Must-See Highlights 💐Three classic public outdoor baths: Oyu, Ishiyu, and Taishiyu, where you can experience the thousand-year-old beauty hot springs at an affordable price. 💐Ancient temples like Kitamuki Kannon and Anrakuji, to feel the profound Zen atmosphere of traditional Japanese temples. 💐Stroll and wander through the hot spring town, with streets blooming with cherry blossoms and wisteria perfect for casual photos. 💐View the entire town and the distant mountain ranges from the high slopes, offering a super healing panorama. 🍃Vegetarian Snacks and Rest Stops The town’s streets are lined with many refreshing vegetarian Japanese-style foods such as soba noodles, warabi mochi, traditional sweets, and handmade confections. Stop anytime to rest and taste. 🍃Travel Tips ✨The town’s roads are gentle and flat with zero hiking difficulty, making leisurely walks stress-free. ✨Public outdoor baths are affordable, allowing you to enjoy natural hot springs at a very low cost per person. ✨Quiet and uncrowded with a great atmosphere, perfect for short trips to escape the hustle and bustle and relax and heal.

While Okinawa is a great place for road trips, the driving habits and visibility will differ between left- and right-hand drive. If you're going to a less urban or rural area, I sincerely recommend that the driver be someone with more driving experience and good driving ethics. After all, some roads are narrower and more like industrial roads. This is not only for your own enjoyment and safety during your trip, but also for the safety of others.

On my first day in Nagano, I took the JR train to Ueda Station, officially beginning my short trip to Shinshu 🚃. Currently, Ueda Station doesn't accept Suica cards for exiting, so even if you swipe your card to enter at Nagano Station, you still need to pay with cash upon arrival. However, the good news is—I heard that Suica and electronic payments are expected to be fully supported this March, making travel much more convenient in the future 👏. 🚉 A low-key yet gloriously decorated city Ueda is located on the main route to Karuizawa and Tokyo. Although not a large city, it holds a significant place in Japanese Sengoku history. This is the site of Sanada Maru, the stronghold of the Sanada Yukimura clan. On the walk from the station to the Ueda Castle ruins, you pass by the ancient battlefield. Images of galloping warhorses and fluttering banners involuntarily floated into my mind ⚔️. Although the castle itself no longer exists, and only the western and southern turrets remain, the castle ruins park still offers plenty to see: ⛩️ Sanada Shrine: Dedicated to the Sanada family, its atmosphere is solemn yet somewhat heroic. 🏛️ Ueda City Museum: Through models, historical materials, and animations, it recreates the classic battle between the Sanada army and Tokugawa Ieyasu. Even those who aren't history buffs can easily understand it, making it surprisingly enjoyable to visit. 🍜 Showa-era local delicacy: Tenhou At noon, we headed to AEON Mall, aiming for Tenhou Ramen, a favorite among locals. This is a long-established ramen shop founded in the Showa era, offering affordable prices and a wide variety of choices. Even before lunchtime, the shop was already about 80% full, demonstrating its popularity. After ramen, we strolled around AEON Mall. It was the weekend, and the place was packed with families and kids, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere—truly authentic local life 🛍️. 🚌 An Unexpected Skiing Surprise While walking back to the station, I discovered there was a highway bus right in front of the station that goes directly to the Sugataira Kogen Ski Resort! After checking some information, I found out that this is actually a hidden gem of a ski resort 🎿 with large slopes and relatively few crowds. The surrounding area has plenty of guesthouses and restaurants. If you want to save on accommodation costs, you can even choose to stay at the Toyoko Inn in front of the station and take the bus to and from the ski resort every day. This setup is so clever 😎 I silently added it to my "Next Year's Ski Season Candidate List" in my mind. My first day in Nagano started perfectly, inspired by history, ramen, and the ski resort. Some cities don't need too much noise to make you want to come back again. #UedaCastleRuins #SanadaMaru #NaganoTravel #ShowaRamen #SkiTraveler