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

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

＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ 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

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.

I've been here for 10 years and I've seen this ramen shop selling well every day. #Delicious in Uweda #Japanese Ramen

I am happy every time I walk through the park in Ueda Nagano #ThaiKitchenDelicious #Nagano #Park

#falladventures What is this place? Zensanji Temple is a historic Zen Buddhist temple nestled in the Shioda area of Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture. Founded in the 8th century, it is one of the region's oldest temples, with deep ties to local spirituality and the natural landscape. The temple’s garden is a classic Japanese strolling garden (kaiyū-shiki), designed to harmonize with the surrounding mountains and forests. It features a tranquil pond, carefully placed stones, stone lanterns, moss-covered paths, and seasonal flora like maples and azaleas, creating a serene atmosphere for meditation and reflection. Why This Place for a Solo Traveler? For the solo traveler, Zensanji Temple Garden offers a perfect escape into nature and history. Its secluded location ensures peace and quiet, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the garden’s beauty. Alone, you can wander the paths mindfully, listen to the sounds of flowing water and birdsong, and sit in quiet contemplation beside the pond. It’s an ideal spot to recharge, reflect, and connect with the timeless spirit of Japanese Zen culture. Your Solo Itinerary: 1. Garden Stroll: Follow the winding paths around the pond, crossing small bridges and admiring the stone arrangements. 2. Temple Exploration: Visit the main hall to see historic artifacts and enjoy the view of the garden from the veranda. 3. Seasonal Appreciation: Visit in autumn for vibrant foliage or in spring for cherry blossoms and azaleas. Essential Tips: · Check access hours: Smaller temples like Zensanji may have limited visiting times. · Wear comfortable shoes: The garden paths may be uneven or steep in places. · Pair with local sights: Combine your visit with Ueda Castle or the nearby Bessho Onsen hot springs. #SoloInNagano #ZenRetreat

#hellohalloween High on the scenic Utsukushigahara Plateau at an altitude of around 2,000 metres in Nagano Prefecture’s Ueda-shi, the Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum offers a remarkable blend of contemporary art and alpine grandeur. Established in June 1981 and set upon 13 hectares of open highland meadow, the museum features more than 250 to 350 sculptures by Japanese and international artists.  The outdoor gallery invites you to wander through fields of bold artworks—such as César Baldaccini’s iconic Thumb, Alexander Liberman’s Iliad Japan, and wind-blown kinetic pieces by Susumu Shingu—all set against the sweeping backdrop of the Northern Japan Alps.  Many pieces are intentionally sited to engage with the changing light, cloud cover and seasons, making every visit unique.  Practical details: the museum is open from late April through early November (9:00 – 17:00, last entry 16:30) and is closed during winter when the Venus Line access road is shut.  Getting there is easiest by car (about an hour from Okaya IC) or by the seasonal Alpico bus from Matsumoto Bus Terminal (~1 h 40 min).  Visitors typically spend 1–2 hours exploring—though art and nature lovers may linger for longer.

Plateau 2000 meters stay in a hotel morning meal to enjoy the sea of ​​clouds ☁️ This time it's really a second to return to the embrace of nature. Location Direct attack Nagano Prefecture Nagawa-cho and Ueda City! ✈️ 🌄 Itinerary Highlights: Chill in the U.S. Plateau 🌳 Stay at: Yamamoto Cottage House Address: 5101-1 Wada, Nagato-cho ✨Hotel Highlights✨ This plateau hotel at an altitude of 2,000 meters has a chill environment! Waking up in the morning already surrounded by a sea of ​​clouds, perfect for photo-taking wonderland mode! ☁️ For breakfast, sit by the window and enjoy the sea of ​​​​clouds, enjoying hot home-baked bread and pizza🍕 The hotel staff is warm and friendly, and actually uses a large tea pot to fill milk for guests to drink😀 I really can't wait to leave at all And! The hotel also has a mystery event theme: At night, join the "Night Tour Eco Tour", where a specialist will take you to explore the stars and find wildlife, and even see deer up close 🦌! Depart on time at 6am the next morning, the hotel takes you into the world of clouds! There are astronomical instruments for you to take crazy pictures, the sky is so blue📸 The tour guide also said that everyone is lucky today You can see Mount Fuji🗻 with your eyes👀 in Nagano Prefecture —— 🏞 Attraction information Miohara Plateau Address: Takeshikamihoniri, Nagano Prefecture, Ueda 386-0507 Japan Open all year round, no matter what season you can come to check in and relax at any time. Escaped beautiful scenery + fresh air all inclusive! When the weather is nice, a large green grassland and a distant view of the mountains, the screen is really beautiful 📷🗻☀️ If you want to feel the purity of nature and slow-life atmosphere in depth in Japan, the plateau is definitely a must! Remember to mark this fantastic hotel + beautiful view itinerary, next time you invite your friends to rush together ~ Afterword recommendation: Shangtian City Colorful Juice Candy

Address: 227 Bessho Onsen, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture, 386-1431, Japan. (Located in the Bessho Onsen area of Ueda) Environment and Facilities Type: Traditional Japanese Inn (Ryokan) with a history of about 150 years (built in 1991, with recent renovations). Rooms: 18 rooms in total, offering both Japanese-style rooms (with futons) and Japanese/Western-style rooms (with beds). All rooms are non-smoking and generally include a private bathroom/shower and toilet. Rooms often feature mountain views. Onsen & Spa: Features hot springs with a reputation for "beauty bath" water. Facilities include a Large Indoor Bath (Daikyokujo), an Open-air Bath (Rotenburo) (non-mixed/separate for men and women), and a Sauna. Guests can use the baths from check-in until 10:00 AM the following morning. Dining: Offers Japanese full-course meals, often featuring local specialties like Shinshu Premium Beef Steak (Kaiseki style). Meals (both breakfast and dinner) are typically served in private dining areas. Full board (meals included) is highly recommended by guests. Other Facilities: Free Private Parking, Free Wi-Fi in public areas, EV charging station, Luggage storage, Shuttle service (e.g., from Bessho-Onsen Station during specific hours), Massage chair, and a gift shop. Highlights: *Historic Onsen Ryokan: A traditional inn with a 150-year legacy, offering a cozy and elegant atmosphere. * High-Quality Cuisine: Highly rated dining, especially the traditional Japanese Kaiseki with Shinshu Premium Beef steak. * "Beauty Bath" Onsen: The Bessho Onsen water is renowned for its skin-enhancing qualities. * Exceptional Service & Cleanliness: Consistently receives high ratings for cleanliness, comfort, and the politeness and attentiveness of the staff. * Convenient Location: Within walking distance of Bessho-Onsen Station (approx. 450m) and local attractions like temples (e.g., Anrakuji Temple, Kitamuki-Kannon Temple). Price per person : The price can vary significantly based on the season, day of the week, room type, and meal plan (e.g., half-board, full-board). Average starting price per night is approximately ¥15,400 to ¥69,300 (or around $234 to $439 USD) per person, per night for a deal or standard plan. It is best to check specific dates for the most accurate price. Rating : Generally rated as "Excellent" or "Exceptional." Specific aggregated ratings from various booking sites are very high: * Overall Guest Score: Typically 9.1 to 9.4 out of 10. * Cleanliness: Often scored exceptionally high (9.3 to 9.8). * Staff & Service: Very highly rated (9.3 to 9.8). * Value for Money: Good to Excellent (8.8 to 9.2). * Location: Good (7.6 to 9.6, depending on the source). Note: Prices are subject to change and should be confirmed directly with the ryokan or a booking platform for specific dates. #travel #japan #Chine #familytravel #localfood

Utsukushigahara (Ogato), located in Nagano Prefecture and one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains, is a great place to enjoy a casual hike. Park your car in the parking lot and head out on a hike while admiring the grazing cows and distant mountains. Although it's called a hike, it's actually just a flat path. Relax, feel the highland breeze, and forget about your daily routine. There aren't many places where you can easily experience the extraordinary world of the mountains. That said, this is a high altitude area, over 2,000 meters above sea level. There's a significant temperature difference from the ground. Depending on the weather, you can feel cold even in summer, so it's important to take proper precautions. When you visit Utsukushigahara, there's one place you definitely don't want to miss. That's Ogato Hotel. Not only can you stay overnight, but you can also enjoy lunch and sweets at the cafe and purchase original goods. It's a great place to take a break from your highland walks or pick out souvenirs. #Nagano Prefecture #Domestic Travel #Utsukushigahara #Utsukushigahara Plateau #0 Yen Travel 2025 Autumn

When people from other prefectures think of Ueda City, they probably think of delicious autumn matsutake mushrooms, fruits, Shinshu soba noodles, walnuts, and sake! This time, I visited Okazaki Sake Brewery and got my hands on my favorite sake, Shinshu Kirei! It has a deep flavor, a strong umami of the sake rice, and a clean finish. I love the feeling of tasting a high-quality sake. Also, personally, I love the unique and delicious oidare sauce (pronounced "oidare") that is served with yakitori in Ueda City, which pairs perfectly with sake! If you're planning a trip to Ueda City, be sure to enjoy it as a journey to discover your favorite foods and drinks. 😊

#Sign Up for September Hotel Tester 2025 Ueda Castle, located in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture, is a mountain castle built by the renowned Warring States general Sanada Masayuki in 1583. Renowned for its sturdy defenses and its two victories over the Tokugawa army, it is considered a symbol of the Sanada clan's wisdom and courage. While the castle tower no longer stands intact, the stone walls, gates, and parts of the turrets remain and are preserved as the Ueda Castle Ruins Park. Access is approximately a 10-minute walk from Ueda Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen. If you're visiting Bessho Onsen for the day, consider stopping by along the way. #NaganoTravel #UedaCity #UedaCastle

[Sanada Town, Ueda City | A Warring States Town Where History and Mountains Intertwine] Sanada Town, located in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture, is a historic town nestled among mountains, renowned for its Sanada family. Once the hometown of renowned Warring States generals Masayuki Sanada and Yukimura Sanada, it still retains a rich historical atmosphere and traces of mountain town culture. Upon entering Sanada Town, the distant mountain silhouette and winding stream form a natural barrier. The air, mingling with the fragrance of pine trees and the cool breeze of the stream, almost echoes the clash of swords from the Warring States era. The town's narrow streets, with cobblestone pavement crisscrossing with ancient houses, feature low-hanging eaves and wooden doors and windows honed to a warm patina by time. Walking along the streets, you'll occasionally spot intricately carved family crests and Sanada family flags, reminders of the town's former glory and loyalty. The Sanada Family History Museum and Sanada Shrine preserve the Sanada family's historical materials and cultural heritage. Inside, the wooden floors and antique exhibits showcase the family's wisdom and courage during the turbulent times of the Warring States period. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom on the hillsides, their pink and white petals drifting in the breeze between the old houses and small bridges, adding a gentle, poetic touch to the town. In summer, lush greenery lingers, and streams flow over stone bridges, creating a refreshing coolness. In autumn, maple leaves adorn the mountains, and the town seems enveloped in a fiery red and golden hue. In winter, snow blankets the roofs and streets, creating a tranquil yet solemn sense of history. Climb a nearby hill to overlook Sanada Town, where the town gently unfolds between the mountains and rivers, each corner telling a story spanning thousands of years. ✨ Tips • Must-see attractions: Sanada Clan History Museum, Sanada Shrine, and the ruins of Ueda Castle. • Best time to photograph: Spring cherry blossoms and autumn maple leaves are the most picturesque; early morning and dusk offer soft light and are less crowded. • Transportation: Driving is the most convenient option; you can also take a bus from JR Ueda Station directly to Sanada Town. • Special experience: Stroll the historic streets in a simple kimono, experiencing the rich history of the Warring States period blended with the leisurely daily life of the town. — 📌 Traveler's Notes The charm of Sanada Town lies not only in the legends of the Warring States period, but also in the town's fusion of nature. Walking along the cobblestone streets and breathing in the fresh air of the mountain stream, you'll discover that history isn't just words on the page, but a tangible, everyday experience. It brings peace of mind and reminds us that the meaning of travel lies in slowly understanding and experiencing. — 🔖 Tags #Ueda-shi #Sanada-cho #Nagano Travel #Warring States History #Sanada Clan #Japanese Historic Towns #Japanese Seasons #History and Nature #Japan Travel #Historic Street Stroll

#Register for September Hotel Sleep Tester 2025 Besho Onsen is located in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture and is known as "the oldest hot spring in Shinshu". It retains the quaint hot spring street style, coupled with the surrounding mountains, which makes people feel the laid-back atmosphere as soon as you set foot. The first photo is of Besho Onsen Station, a small and cute station building that is right at the entrance to Onsen Street. Directly accessible from Ueda Electric Railway Bessho Line, it only takes about 30 minutes from Ueda Station, which is very convenient. Ueda Station itself is connected to the Shinkansen, and it takes about an hour and a half to get there by Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo. Before exiting the station, about 800 meters you will see the traditional alley shown in the third photo. Northbound Kwun Yam Sand Road. It is lined with food courts, souvenir shops and coffee shops, with red oil-paper umbrellas and stone steps, bringing out the rich hot spring street style. Walking around here, trying Shinshu soba noodles or matcha desserts is definitely a pleasure of the trip. The fifth photo presents the open view around Besso Hot Springs, with clumps of mountains, intertwined city streets and fields, lush green in summer and snowy scenery in winter, each with its own charm. In addition to hot spring inns, Bessho Onsen also has historical attractions such as "North-facing Kanyin" and "Anji Temple Octagonal Triple Pagoda", where you can feel the cultural atmosphere while soaking in the hot springs. If you’re looking for a relaxing trip near Tokyo, Besho Onsen is a great option – easy access, great views, and a full onsen atmosphere. #NaganoTravel #Besho Hot Spring #Ueda Electric Railway

Nice to meet you! I'm Eunice! This was my first time in Nagano Prefecture! In this article, I'll introduce some classic spots that I've actually been to! They were all great, but my top pick is Ryugaeshi Falls! The first photo is the view from the waterfall. 🤍 Apparently, the name comes from the story of a dragon-like snake that tried to climb the waterfall, but the force of the water was so great that it fell back into the pool! The entrance is a little hard to find, but I definitely recommend checking it out! Don't forget to pick up some souvenirs at Tsuruya Supermarket. 😉💫 My recommendations are the walnut sauce and oyaki! Please let me know your recommendations too!

During a trip to Nagano, I visited Ueda Castle, and during that time, I also visited Sanada Shrine ⛩️, located at the site of the Ueda Castle Honmaru. I had no idea there was a shrine at the Ueda Castle site, and it wasn't until I got there that I found out about it. 👀 This shrine ⛩️ enshrines the Sanada, Sengoku, and Matsudaira clans, the successive lords of Ueda Castle, and it's named after the Sanada clan. I visited in July 2025, and there was a limited edition summer paper-cut goshuin stamp, limited to 1,200 copies. So, I got one! 🖌️ (The goshuin on the cover) I was happy that when I requested a goshuin, they hand-wrote everything else after I ordered it. ☺️ They also have a lot of cute omikuji (fortune slips), so this is a shrine I highly recommend for those who love goshuin and omikuji (fortune slips). 🫶 〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜 ✔️Recommended Points 〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜 ⚫︎In addition to the regular goshuin, they regularly distribute limited-edition paper-cut goshuin (cut-out goshuin). 🖌️ ⚫︎There's a wide variety of omikuji (fortune slips), with over 10 varieties! There are over 5 different types of Omikuji (fortune slips) alone! 🥠 ⚫︎There are plenty of recommended spots for history buffs, including a photo spot featuring the Sanada clan's helmet and a statue of Sanada Yukimura. 📷 ⚫︎It's said that walking through the sacred Zelkova tree will bring you longevity, good fortune, and family safety. 🌲 ---- 📍Access 👣Approximately a 10-minute walk from Ueda Station ⛩️Prices 🖌️Limited-edition paper-cut goshuin (shrine stamp) ¥1,000 *Regular goshuin (shrine stamp) is ¥500. 🥠Omikuji (fortune slips) ¥300 🕰️Hours 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM *Varies depending on the season. ---- #JapanTravel #SanadaShrine #UedaCastleRuins #Shrine #Goshuin #Omikuji #NaganoTourism #NaganoTrip

Utsukushigahara in Nagano Prefecture. While visiting during regular daytime hours is great, why not try heading out a bit earlier to witness the morning sunrise? Even on scorching days when Tokyo exceeds 40°C, Nagano Prefecture remains at a comfortable 20°C! And here at Utsukushigahara, temperatures drop to the teens. In fact, during the time I saw this sunrise, it was single-digit cold. You won't miss Tokyo's heat, but if you go in a tank top, you'll be freezing! If this view makes you want to visit, I highly recommend it! It's absolutely worth it. 📍Location: Utsukushigahara, Nagano Prefecture 386-0507 Kamihoniri, Takeshi, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture

Discover a better way to breathe in fresh air and enjoy stunning matcha-green landscapes. Here are two perfect summer getaway spots near Tokyo: Utsukushigahara Highlands and Kirigamine. Both of these famous mountains are located in Nagano Prefecture, just under a 3-hour drive from Tokyo. The terrain is gentle, making hiking easy and ideal for a weekend trip. Utsukushigahara Ranch Many people suggest setting your GPS to "Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum," but I personally recommend setting it to "Nagawa Town Parking Lot," which is closer to the ranch—only about a 10-minute walk away. Every frame here looks like a painting, especially during sunset. I was lucky to witness the breathtaking scene of cows and sheep grazing under the golden hues of the setting sun, which was even more stunning than during the day. 🍃 Kirigamine Here are two recommended locations: Kirigamine Venus Line Free Parking Lot Right across from the parking lot is a walking trail where you can enjoy a summer landscape reminiscent of a Hayao Miyazaki film, complete with blue skies and green grass. You might even spot gliders soaring in the sky—cue the song "A Whirlwind" in your head! Kurumayama Highlands Parking Lot For 2,500 yen, you can take a round-trip cable car 🚠 directly to the summit of Kurumayama. Alternatively, you can purchase a ticket for just the mid-point (around 1,000 yen) and hike to the top. At the summit, there’s a sacred and beautiful aerial shrine, along with a terrace where you can sit and leisurely admire the mountain views. I was lucky enough to catch a rainbow 🌈 over the highlands when it rained on the opposite mountain—truly a magical moment. Between Utsukushigahara and Kirigamine lies the famous Venus Line, a scenic route that takes about 40 minutes to drive. Along the way, there are several observation points perfect for stopping, strolling, and enjoying the breeze.

Before touring Ueda Castle🏯, I went to Yaguratei for lunch!!! It's a 16-minute walk from Ueda Station, but only a 6-minute walk from the Ueda Castle🏯 parking lot, so I recommend combining it with your castle tour. ... The soba noodles were very thinly sliced, but had just the right amount of firmness and were incredibly delicious...!!! Because they were so thin, they clung to the noodle soup and grated daikon radish perfectly, making them incredibly tasty!!! I love plums and grated daikon radish, so this was the perfect combination! 🤤 Yaguratei Soba (¥1,700) This also comes with chilled soba noodles topped with wakame seaweed, diced grated yam, shredded egg, and tempura. My husband ordered this, so I didn't have it, but he said the tempura was very crispy and delicious. ◎ Next time, I'll definitely order the tempura too!!! We went around 11:30 on a weekday, and since it's a popular restaurant, there were 3-4 groups waiting in line. The line may be even longer on weekends, so it's best to go with plenty of time! ---- 📍Access Approximately 16 minutes walk from Ueda Station 🥢Price Mori Soba (Seasoned Soba) ¥830 Oroshi Soba (Grated Daikon Radish Soba) ¥1,000 *Prices vary depending on the menu. ️🕰️Hours 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (LO. 2:45 PM) *Closes when sold out. Closed every Wednesday. ---- #AbsolutelyFreeTrip #YaguraTei #UedaSightseeing #NaganoTrip #Soba #Lunch

The snow scenery was so completely white~~~🤍⛄️ Utsukushigahara and Kirigamine!! Even though it was so cold, the sky was a deep blue and the air was so clear✨️ We went on an expedition with binoculars and cameras🎒📷 It was so much fun to walk on the smooth snow~~~~! Even if you don't ski, a winter mountain is definitely worth it! #Nagano #KirigamineHighland #UtsukushigaharaHighland 🧤Bring all your warm gear! 📍Nagano Prefecture, UtsukushigaharaHighland & Kirigamine

I want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and take some time to calm myself down. But I also want to be stimulated when I travel. Nagano in Shinshu will grant you this wish. With its magnificent nature, deep history, and a treasure trove of culture that will make you gasp, there are plenty of reasons to satisfy your five senses. ⸻ ✅ 5 reasons to visit Nagano Prefecture 1. [Zenkoji is a place where anyone can be "saved"] Zenkoji, the symbol of Nagano City, is a rare temple that anyone can visit regardless of sect. It is said that if you touch the "lock of paradise" in the pitch black during the "Okaidan Meguri" tour under the main hall, you will be guaranteed a life in paradise. 2. [Actually a "hot spring kingdom"! Second in the nation in number of hot springs] Nagano is the second most hot springs prefecture in Japan after Hokkaido. Bessho Onsen, Shibu Onsen, Hirugami Onsen and other onsen hot springs are dotted around the area, perfect for a trip around the hot springs. 3. [A world-renowned starry sky] Achi Village is a village that has been recognized by the Ministry of the Environment as the place where the stars shine brightest in Japan. At Heavens Sonohara, a highland resort at an altitude of 1200m, you can experience a sky full of stars that you can almost reach out and touch. 4. [Why it's famous for its apple production, even though it's not the largest in Japan] Nagano's apples are second only to Aomori in production volume. However, they are highly rated for their "good taste" and "wide variety." In particular, "Shinano Sweet" and "Shinano Gold" are brand apples that originated in Nagano. 5. [Actually the "Jomon Kingdom"! The number of excavated items is the highest in Japan] Nagano Prefecture is one of the areas with the largest concentration of Jomon ruins in Japan. The national treasure clay figurines "Jomon Venus" and "Masked Goddess" were excavated from the Togariishi ruins in Chino City, and are cultural assets of a class comparable to those in the Tokyo National Museum. ⸻ 🧭Summary Nagano is not just "beautiful nature". A prefecture that embraces all the curiosity of travelers, from history and culture to healing and discovery. If you're looking for a "slightly deeper trip" for your next holiday, Nagano will surely exceed your expectations. #Nagano #DomesticTravel

♨️ Nagano, Bessho Onsen | A retro trip to the oldest hot spring in Shinshu Bessho Onsen in Ueda City, also known as the "Kamakura of Shinshu," is the oldest hot spring resort in Shinshu, boasting a history of 1,400 years. With its retro townscape and famous sites such as Kitamuki Kannon and the Anrakuji Octagonal Three-Story Pagoda, it is a travel destination for adults where you can enjoy both culture and relaxation. There are also many outdoor baths in the hot spring town, and it is also attractive that you can take your time to visit the baths with a hand towel in hand. Enjoy a quiet and rich time surrounded by the seasonal atmosphere, with weeping cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in autumn. ⸻ 🔹Experience points ・Relax your body and mind in the oldest hot spring in Shinshu ・A stroll where you can also visit historical architecture and temples ・A trip on the local Ueda Electric Railway is also full of atmosphere ⸻ 📍Access From Ueda Station, take the Ueda Electric Railway Bessho Line for about 30 minutes and get off at "Bessho Onsen Station" Outdoor baths start at a few hundred yen, and there is also a free foot bath ⸻ #Nagano Tourism#Bessho Onsen#Shinshu's Oldest Hot Spring#Ueda City#Kitamuki Kannon#Hot Spring Tour#Solo Trip#Couple Trip#Absolutely Free Trip