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

Real traveler experiences and travel guides for Ueda in March, 2026

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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

＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ 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

#MustSeeTourist Spots Summer views of Nagano that you'll want to revisit in the colder months 🌿 ・Kamikochi 🏨The hotel we stayed at was THE PARK RODGE The buffet with plenty of vegetables was delicious 😋 And best of all, it was just a 30-second walk from Kappa Bridge. ・Utsukushigahara Evening is the best time! ・Mt. Mitake A little-known hidden gem on the Venus Line ・Koropokkuru Hütte Kirigamine Delicious borsch! A cafe with a spectacular view and a great location. Popular hotels in Kamikochi are booked up six months in advance! Be sure to save this for reference this summer ♪ #NaganoTrip #Utsukushigahara #Mt. Mitake #Nagano #Kamikochi

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

#JanuaryDestinations2026 When visiting Ueda Castle in Nagano Prefecture, the first photo everyone takes is undoubtedly here! This is the "Ninomaru Bridge" (二の丸桥), connecting the Ninomaru and Honmaru (main castle). This red bridge spans the lush, empty moat (formerly a watercourse, now a pedestrian walkway on the former tram tracks), directly facing the imposing "East Tiger Mouth Turret Gate." This scene is the symbol of Ueda Castle! The red railings, gray stone walls, and black and white gate create a striking color contrast. Standing on the Ninomaru Bridge, imagining how Sanada Yukimura (Nobushige) and his father Masayuki used the rugged terrain to defeat Tokugawa Ieyasu's massive army with fewer troops truly evokes a sense of patriotic fervor! 🔥 🌟 Photography Tips: 1. Under-bridge view: Don't just walk on the bridge; walk along the walkway under the bridge and shoot upwards. This will allow you to capture the towering castle walls and the layered effect of the red bridge. 2. Legend of the Giant Rock: Next to the entrance is a 3-meter-diameter "Sanada Stone," said to be a giant rock that Sanada Nobuyuki tried to move but couldn't. Be sure to look for it. 📍 Attraction Information: • Attraction Name: Ueda Castle Ruins Park (Ninomaru Ruins) • Admission: Free all day. • Climbing the Turret Gate: Admission to the interior of the turret gate requires an entrance fee of approximately NT$65 (300 yen).

Utsukushigahara Plateau Late-night departure from Nagoya🚗 Sea of ​​clouds, grasslands, and a castle in the sky A must-see destination #DomesticTravel #UtsukushigaharaPlateau #Nagano

#planliburan The Top Spots in Ako: Locations & Details 1. Iwatsuhime Shrine The Vibe: A historic shrine dedicated to the goddess of the sea. Details: Famous for its stone Torii gate that frames the Seto Inland Sea perfectly, it is a popular spot to pray for safety at sea and good fortune in relationships. 2. Ikushima The Vibe: A mystical, sacred island floating in Sakakoshi Bay. Details: This uninhabited island is covered in primeval forest and has been protected as a sacred site for centuries, lending a spiritual atmosphere to the Sakakoshi coastline. 3. Ichimai-no-E The Vibe: A serene Terrace Cafe by the sea. Details: The name translates to "A Single Painting," reflecting how the massive windows frame the ocean like a work of art while you enjoy artisanal coffee. 4. Ako Hyogo Prefectural Seaside Park The Vibe: A massive family-friendly park celebrating Ako’s heritage. Details: It features salt-making workshops, an amusement park, and expansive greenery perfect for a day out by the water. 5. Momoi Museum The Vibe: A fusion of traditional "Onigawara" roof tile art and modern scenery. Details: Visitors can enjoy outdoor art installations and a relaxing footbath while overlooking the sea. 6. AMAMITERRAS The Vibe: A chic, modern cafe and shop focused on Ako’s salt culture. Details: It offers "salt sweets" and a stylish terrace view, making it a perfect stop after visiting the nearby shrines. 7. Kirakira-zaka The Vibe: The famous "Sparkling Slope". Details: A picturesque stone-paved path lined with glass mosaics and Mediterranean-style cafes that leads directly down to the ocean. 8. Tenmasen The Vibe: A nostalgic nod to Ako’s maritime history. Details: Named after traditional wooden rowing boats, this spot offers a rustic atmosphere to enjoy local flavors and sea views. 9. Shiosai Kirara Syokichi The Vibe: A luxury hot spring experience. Details: Renowned for its "infinity" outdoor baths where the hot spring water seems to merge seamlessly with the Seto Inland Sea. 10. Daruma Asahi at Akhozaki The Vibe: The rare and lucky "Dharma Sunrise". Details: Seen from the Akhozaki cape, this phenomenon occurs when temperature mirages make the rising sun look like a traditional Daruma doll.

#JanuaryDestinations2026 A trip to Ueda City in Nagano Prefecture will absolutely excite history buffs! Here stands Ueda Castle, built by the Sengoku period general Sanada Masayuki, and the starting point of the legendary story of Sanada Yukimura (Nobushige). The castle's most remarkable feat was twice repelling the massive army led by Tokugawa Ieyasu, earning it the title of "Immortal Castle" with the strongest defenses! 🛡️ Although now a park, the Ninomaru area retains many important historical sites. Once a crucial defensive line protecting the main castle (Honmaru), it now serves as a spacious plaza connecting the entrance to the shrine. Especially in spring, it transforms into the main venue for the "Ueda Castle Senbonzakura Festival," where thousands of cherry trees bloom simultaneously, creating a breathtakingly beautiful pink sea of ​​blossoms against the backdrop of Sengoku-era stone walls! 🌸 📝 Complete Castle Siege Guide: 1. 📸 Classic Angle: Ninomaru Bridge To take the coolest photo of Ueda Castle, you must stand on the Ninomaru Bridge and shoot inwards! From here, you can capture the vermilion bridge, the massive stone walls, and the majestic Higashi-kochi Tsubame-no-Mago (East Tiger Mouth Gate) in the background. This is the standard cover photo on every travel guide and poster; not taking a picture here is like not having been there at all! 🌉 2. 🚂 Remains of the Abandoned Railway Line: Keiyaki Forest Path The remains of the old moat surrounding the Ninomaru Castle have now been transformed into a beautiful "Keiyaki Forest Path." A little-known fact only insiders know: this path was actually a "train track (Ueda Kotsu Sanada-Hōyō Line)"! Although the railway is now abandoned, strolling along the bottom of the moat where trains once ran, looking at the towering zelkova trees and stone walls on both sides, creates a unique sense of temporal displacement. 🛤️ 3. ⛩️ Pray for Good Fortune at Sanada Shrine Passing through the Ninomaru and entering the Honmaru, you'll find the famous Sanada Shrine. Because this castle was never conquered, the legend of its "Never-Falling Castle" has become a symbol of "passing exams without fail (passing)." If you or your friends and family need to take an exam or have an interview, be sure to buy an "Never-Falling" amulet—it's incredibly lucky! 🙏 4. ⚔️ Weekend-Limited "Sanada Warrior Team" If you visit on a weekend or holiday, you might encounter the "Shinshu Ueda Hospitality Warrior Team" dressed in full armor at the Ninomaru Plaza! These handsome warriors, dressed as Sanada Yukimura and his ten brave warriors, will kindly take photos with you, provide guided tours, and even put on exciting martial arts performances—the level of realism is incredibly high!

Jizō Onsen Spa Jippuku-no-Yu: A Hidden Forest Sanctuary Nestled in the serene mountains of Ueda, Nagano, Jizō Onsen Spa Jippuku-no-Yu is a rustic hot spring retreat that offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of c#travel2026 ity life. The name "Jippuku-no-Yu" translates to "The Spring of Ten Blessings," hinting at the healing and rejuvenating properties of its natural waters. Key Features • Majestic Outdoor Baths (Rotenburo): This spa is famous for having one of the largest open-air baths in the region. Surrounded by lush forest scenery, visitors can soak in the mineral-rich waters while listening to the sounds of nature. • Rustic Architecture: The entrance is marked by impressive, massive wooden pillars and whimsical wood carvings (like the owl and Jizo figure seen in your photo), giving the place a warm, traditional, and welcoming atmosphere. • Healing Waters: The water is known for its skin-smoothing properties and its ability to relieve fatigue and muscle pain. • Culinary Delights: Beyond the bath, the facility is highly rated for its food. They serve fresh, local Nagano specialties, including handmade soba noodles and stone-baked pizzas. The Atmosphere The vibe is "forest-luxury meets countryside charm." Whether you visit during the snowy winter to enjoy a "snow-viewing bath" or during the green summer months, the facility provides a deeply calming experience that connects you with the Japanese wilderness.

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

The fog was amazing ☔️

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