20 recommended sightseeing spots in Tateshina, Nagano Prefecture! Enjoy all seasons

Tateshina Highland is a popular tourist destination in Nagano Prefecture, boasting a plethora of sightseeing spots. The area offers a refreshing climate with clean air and stunning views of the Yatsugatake Mountains and the Japanese Alps. With numerous lakes, ponds, waterfalls, and other attractions, Tateshina provides a unique experience for every season. Whether you're interested in hiking, outdoor activities, events, food, hot springs, history, or art, Tateshina has something for everyone. If you're planning a trip to Nagano Prefecture, make sure to visit Tateshina Highland and experience all it has to offer throughout the year.

1. Venus Line

The Venus Line is an indispensable part of any drive through Tateshina Highland. Stretching from Chino, the gateway to Tateshina Highland, to Mikasa in Ueda, it offers a continuous panorama of stunning highland scenery. Particularly noteworthy are the clusters of renge tsuutsuji (a type of azalea) in June and the mass blooming of Nippon lily (Nipponia nipponica) from July to August. The autumn foliage is also highly recommended. This is the perfect route for a scenic drive while sightseeing in Tateshina Highland.

From Tateshina Highland, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Shirakaba, Karuizawa Kogen, and Kirigamine Kogen – truly the most beautiful sights of Shinano. Additionally, the Yashimagahara Wetland between Kirigamine Kogen and Wada Pass is another great sightseeing spot. After passing through Yashimagahara Wetland and crossing Washigamine Peak, you'll reach an observation deck with a teahouse. Take a break here and savor the panoramic views of Karuizawa, Yatsugatake, Mikasa, and Mount Asama. When visiting Tateshina, start your journey with a drive along the Venus Line!

If you're arriving by train, renting a budget car at Chino Station is recommended.

2. Kitayatsugatake Ropeway

The Kitayatsugatake Ropeway is a tourist ropeway in the northern part of Tateshina Highland, spanning between Kitayoko-dake and Shimagareyama in the Yatsugatake Mountain Range. The 100-person gondola takes approximately 7 minutes to ascend 466 meters from the base station at an altitude of 1771 meters to the summit station at an altitude of 2237 meters. The upward journey offers a breathtaking panoramic view with a sense of altitude. You can see as far as the Northern Alps, Southern Alps, and Central Alps, making it an essential stop for sightseeing in Tateshina Highland.

At the summit, there is a natural garden called "Tsuboniwa Natural Garden" with walking paths that wind through the natural terrain, offering visitors a chance to enjoy seasonal alpine plants. Open year-round, it is popular among hikers, trekkers, skiers, and snowboarders, making it one of the top recommended spots for sightseeing in Tateshina.

3. Tsuboniwa Natural Garden

"Tsuboniwa Natural Garden" is located at a high altitude above the summit station of the Kitayatsugatake Ropeway, the heart of Tateshina Highland sightseeing, and features walking paths that wind through the natural terrain.

You can take a leisurely stroll around the garden in about 30 minutes, making it a great option for sightseeing in Tateshina Highland. At an altitude of over 2200 meters, the alpine plants found in Tsuboniwa Natural Garden are all in their natural state. Delicate flowers bloom among the rugged lava rocks created by the eruption of Mount Yatsugatake.

The best time to see the alpine flowers in bloom is from May to August. Since different species bloom at different times, you can visit multiple times during the season and encounter a variety of flowers each time. The peak blooming period is from late June to early July, making it the best time to visit Tsuboniwa Natural Garden to see the alpine plants at their most vibrant.

4. Shimagare Sanso

Shimagare Mountain Hut is a mountain lodge located in Tateshina Highland. About a 15-minute walk from the Tsuboniwa Natural Garden, which is just below the summit station of the Yatsugatake Ropeway, you'll see the hut's triangular roof. Primarily used by climbers of the Yatsugatake Mountains, Shimagare Mountain Hut is not exclusively for mountaineers; general tourists can also stay overnight.

Open year-round, it's a great place to stay even in winter. Instead of skiing down the slopes after riding a lift, you can try telemark skiing, a challenging sport that involves walking, climbing, and sliding in the mountains. Enjoy skiing in the natural surroundings of Tateshina Highland, something you can't experience on a regular ski slope.

Shimagare Mountain Hut is built on a ridge of the Yatsugatake Mountains at an altitude of over 2000 meters. The hut has a nostalgic atmosphere with lamps and a wood-burning stove. Be sure to wear warm clothing, especially in winter. Even in summer, it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings.

5. Megami Lake

Megami Lake is a beautiful tourist lake located a bit north of Tateshina, at the foot of Ryugamine Peak, a short distance north of Shirakaba Lake. The lake's surface reflects the majestic image of Mount Tateshina. With a circumference of about 1.8 kilometers, it's perfect for a leisurely stroll from spring to autumn, while enjoying the sight of flowers like lily of the valley and renge tsuutsuji. The autumn foliage is also stunning, making it a great destination for an autumn drive in Tateshina Highland.

At the lakeside restaurant, "Megami Lake Shokudo," you can savor dishes made with local organic vegetables. Enjoy a relaxing time on the terrace while taking in the view. It's also a recommended resting point for a sightseeing drive in Tateshina Highland. In summer, you can enjoy activities like canoeing and boating, while in winter, you can explore the snowy landscape on snowshoes. This is a must-visit spot for anyone touring Tateshina Highland.

6. Tateshina Farm & Tateshina Farm Gondola Lift

When it comes to sightseeing in Tateshina, Shirakaba Kogen is a must-visit. And within Shirakaba Kogen, "Tateshina Farm" is the central attraction. In summer, it's a popular tourist destination as a farm, while in winter, it transforms into the Shirakaba Kogen International Ski Area. At the "Tateshina Fureai Bokujyo" (Tateshina Friendly Farm) within the farm, you can get up close and personal with sheep, mini pigs, goats, and rabbits.

Riding the Tateshina Farm Gondola Lift offers breathtaking views of the Northern Alps, as well as the farm animals and the panoramic landscape of Shirakaba Kogen. There's also a dog run near the gondola's summit station, making it convenient for those visiting Tateshina with pets.

At Tateshina Dai-ni Bokujyo (Tateshina Second Farm), you can see horses freely roaming the vast grasslands, and enjoy fresh milk and soft serve ice cream at the shop.

7. Gozensui Natural Garden

When visiting Shirakaba Kogen in Tateshina, be sure to stop by the "Gosensui Natural Garden". Located about a 5-minute gondola ride from Tateshina Farm, you'll find yourself at an altitude of 1830 meters upon exiting the summit station. This natural garden was one of the first of its kind in Nagano Prefecture, developed as a commemorative project for the 100th anniversary of the Meiji era.

Situated on the mid-slope of Mount Tateshina, known for its elegant mountain shape, even among the Northern Yatsugatake Mountains, the garden is home to approximately 300 species of alpine plants and various birds. From April to late October, you can enjoy forest bathing and birdwatching along the wooden walkways. Dogs are welcome, making it a great destination for a pet-friendly outing. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

8. Tateshina Highland Rose Garden

The "Tateshina Highland Rose Garden" is Japan's first full-scale English garden, spanning approximately 10,000 square meters in Tateshina Highland. The garden features over 5,000 varieties of plants, including 2,500 rose bushes transplanted from England. From the entrance, you'll be greeted by a rose pergola, meadows, a blue garden, and a herb garden, all of which are incredibly beautiful.

The highlight of the Rose Garden is undoubtedly the roses, especially the old roses. These classic varieties are characterized by their elegant shapes and rich fragrances. However, the garden is not solely dedicated to roses; it is designed to showcase the beauty of various plant combinations throughout the seasons, making it a captivating destination year-round. The climate of Tateshina Highland is similar to that of England, making it an ideal location for such a beautiful garden.

The annual "Rosekura Flower Show" in June is a festival celebrating the British lifestyle through music, food, and exhibitions. With gardening lectures by experts from the UK, it's a serious event that attracts people from all over Japan. Visiting Tateshina Highland during the Rosekura Flower Show is a delightful experience.

The bakery is also highly recommended, especially for its apple pie, a classic British treat. Enjoy a leisurely tea time on the cafe terrace. The British-style fish and chips are also a must-try.

9. Shokoji Temple

"Shokoji Temple" is a temple dedicated to traffic safety located near Lake Tateshina. The best time to visit is from late April to early May, around Golden Week. This is because the temple grounds are home to approximately 300 Someiyoshino cherry trees, which bloom beautifully every spring.

Located at an altitude of about 1200 meters in Tateshina Highland, the cherry blossoms bloom slightly later than those in the lowlands, beginning to open after the cherry blossoms in the foothills have scattered. The temple offers a stunning view of cherry blossoms lining the path from the mountain gate to the main hall, making it a popular spot for late-season cherry blossom viewing in Shinano.

10. Nagato Farm

Nagato Farm is a vast farm in Shirakaba Kogen, Tateshina, perfect for a leisurely sightseeing trip. It's home to around 200 dairy cows, as well as goats and alpacas. Visitors can enjoy fresh milk processed on the farm itself. The rich and creamy soft serve ice cream is highly recommended!

Nagato Farm offers various hands-on experiences such as butter, ice cream, and cheese making, as well as horseback riding through the grasslands and forest paths. You can spend a refreshing day surrounded by the wide-open spaces and clear skies of the farm. In winter, the snowy pastures are open for activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding.

The farm's restaurant serves authentic pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven and dishes made with homemade dairy products. A particularly recommended dish is the sweet dolce pizza topped with homemade apple jam and cream cheese using locally grown apples in Shinano. Be sure to try the smaller dessert-sized portion.

The shop offers a variety of original products such as yogurt, cheese, and baumkuchen, all made using the bounty of nature from the farm. They make perfect souvenirs from your trip to Tateshina.

11. Mugeiso

"Mugeiso" is a relocated villa that once belonged to the renowned Japanese film director Yasujiro Ozu. Located in Poolhira, the central area of Tateshina, the house is easily recognizable by its thatched roof. Ozu began spending time in Tateshina around 1955, after completing his masterpiece "Tokyo Story," and continued to write scripts there throughout his life.

He reportedly fell deeply in love with the natural beauty of Tateshina, the warmth of its people, and the delicious sake. There's even a story that he would finish off 100 bottles of sake for every completed screenplay. The house still seems to hold traces of Ozu's presence. If you're visiting Tateshina Highland, it's worth visiting Mugeiso to reflect on the world of Japanese cinema.

12. Tokenkyo Gorge

Tokenkyo Gorge is a peaceful spot in Tateshina Highland where you can relax by a clear flowing stream. The name "Tokenkyo" means "a gorge where cuckoos sing." To get there, follow the Venus Line towards Tateshina Highland Country Club, pass the Rose Garden, and turn left. Enter through the side of a soba noodle restaurant where the road makes a large curve. It's a hidden gem in Tateshina Highland, with beautiful views of the river flowing through the lava cliffs.

There's a walking trail that takes about 30 minutes to complete. It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes. Take a deep breath of the fresh air and fully enjoy your trip to Tateshina. You can also enjoy fresh iwana (rainbow trout) and yamame (char) grilled over an irori (open hearth) at the soba noodle restaurant.

13. Tateshina Toubou

"Tateshina Pottery Studio" is a pottery studio located near the Sasamarudaira bus stop along the Venus Line in Tateshina. It's a great place for tourists who want to casually try pottery making. A unique feature of this studio is that you can both mold and paint your pottery, making it a popular pottery class for beginners who can create a finished piece in just an hour or two.

It's wonderful to be able to create your own unique pottery in a peaceful environment surrounded by the Tateshina forest. The owner, a former apparel designer turned potter, provides friendly guidance. Why not try making a cup, bowl, or plate at Tateshina Pottery Studio? It's a great souvenir from your trip to Tateshina and something to show off to your friends.

14. Yokoya Gorge

"Yokoya Gorge (Yokoya Valley)" is a gorge along the Shibukawa River that runs through the center of Tateshina Onsen. It's refreshing to walk along the trails and admire the beautiful scenery of giant rocks and unique formations, including Ichimai-iwa (Single Rock), Kirifu no taki (Mistfall Waterfall), and Otohime no taki (Maiden Waterfall). Enjoy the negative ions and the changing colors of the leaves in Yokoya Gorge. The recommended route for sightseeing is to walk downstream from Yokoya Kannon. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Take your time and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Yokoya Gorge.

A highlight of the trail is Ichimai-iwa, a large flat rock with a stream flowing over it. After passing Kirifu no taki, head to Otohime no taki. You can get very close to the waterfall and feel the mist on your face, giving you a real sense of the negative ions.

In winter, the frozen waterfalls of Yokoya Gorge, especially the Byobu-iwa Icefall, are a spectacular sight. If you're short on time, you can enjoy the beautiful views of Tateshina from the Yokoya Kannon observation deck.

15.Taruhime Falls & Taruhime Shrine

"Taruhime no taki" waterfall is located in Yanagawa, about a 15-minute drive from Chino towards Tateshina. The waterfall is a two-tiered cascade, dropping about 9 meters at the first level and then another 3 meters at a different angle. Rather than being majestic, the waterfall has a feminine charm that befits its name, "Taruhime." The trail to the waterfall includes a slightly thrilling suspension bridge, and you can also view the waterfall from directly above.

Nearby is "Taruhime Shrine," dedicated to Taruhime, the daughter of the deity Takeminakata no kami from Suwa. The surrounding area is known as the "Taruhime Literature Village" and features a haiku monument by Matsuo Basho, as well as a suggestion box for poems and haikus. It's a peaceful and quiet place where you can try your hand at composing a short poem.

If you're looking for a peaceful sightseeing experience in Tateshina, be sure to visit Taruhime no taki waterfall and Taruhime Shrine.

16. Mishakaike Pond

When you stand before "Mishakaike Pond," you'll be so captivated by the beautiful scenery that you might forget to speak. It's an absolutely must-see spot for any visitor to Tateshina.

The beauty of Mishakaike Pond lies in the reflection of the surrounding landscape on its mirror-like surface. The view changes throughout the day and night, so you'll never get tired of visiting. Of course, the scenery also changes with the seasons, offering a different kind of beauty in each. Mishakaike Pond is the perfect place to experience the breathtaking landscapes of Tateshina.

Be sure to visit Mishakaike Pond to see its seasonal beauty!

17. Tateshina Highland Art Museum

The "Tateshina Highland Art Museum" is located in the northern part of Tateshina, near the base station of the Kitayatsugatake Ropeway. It houses approximately 100 works by the renowned sculptor Toru Yazaki. This is a must-visit spot for anyone taking the Kitayatsugatake Ropeway.

The museum's concept is based on the idea that sculptures should be "seen," "touched," and "felt with the heart." When you visit, empty your mind and immerse yourself in the world of this master sculptor. This museum is highly recommended for art lovers.

18. Chino City Kyogai Jomon Archaeological Museum

Even if you're not particularly interested in history or ancient civilizations, you'll be captivated by the national treasure, the "Venus of Jomon." Its graceful form and overwhelming presence are truly mesmerizing. Located about a 20-minute bus ride from Chino Station, the "Chino City Togariishi Jomon Archaeological Museum" houses approximately 2,000 artifacts excavated from Jomon Period sites dating back 5,000 years.

Along with the "Venus of Jomon," another famous piece in the museum is the national treasure, the "Masked Goddess." One can't help but wonder what thoughts and feelings the ancient people had when they created these figurines.

The reason why the Jomon culture thrived in the Tateshina area is that the region was abundant in food sources such as nuts, deer, wild boar, and river fish, and it was also a source of obsidian, a material used to make stone tools. The museum is located within a historical park, and in addition to the museum building, there are reconstructed Jomon settlement houses that visitors can enter to experience the living spaces of that time.

The museum also offers fun activities like making pottery and clay figurines, and trying on Jomon-era clothing, making it a great addition to your Tateshina sightseeing. Be sure to come and see the mysterious and beautiful "Venus of Jomon."

19. Tateshina Amusement Aquarium

Let's visit the "Tateshina Amusement Aquarium," where you can relax and be healed by the beauty of aquariums and tropical fish. The Tateshina Amusement Aquarium is a freshwater fish aquarium. It's located in the northern part of Tateshina, close to the Kitayoko-dake Ropeway, so be sure to stop by.

The aquarium is divided into several sections, each with a unique theme such as "Rainbow Palace: The Maze of Rainbows," "Water Polis: The Water City," and "Gaia Jungle: The Allure of the Rainforest." You can see ancient arowana fish and get a close-up look at the size of the pirarucu, a giant freshwater fish that is said to have stopped evolving 100 million years ago. If you're lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the feeding time demonstrations with the keepers. The feeding scene of these giant fish is truly impressive.

From the observation deck, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Southern Alps, Central Alps, Mount Ontake, and the Northern Alps. There's also a covered dog run, making it a great destination for a trip to Tateshina with your pet.

20. Tateshina Onsen Public Bath

"Tateshina Onsen Public Bath" is a public bath located in Poolhira, the central area of Tateshina. As the name suggests, it's a simple, public bathhouse, perfect for a casual visit during your trip to Tateshina.

Loved by locals and hikers alike, the hot spring water is colorless and transparent, and the slightly hot water is very soothing. While soaking in the hot spring, you can ask the locals for recommendations on the best sightseeing spots in Tateshina. You might even discover a hidden gem. If you're looking for an authentic onsen experience, be sure to visit the Tateshina Onsen Public Bath.

Summary

We've introduced you to 20 recommended spots to explore in Tateshina. Tateshina Highland is truly a wonderful place to visit. It boasts abundant nature and a pleasant climate. Moreover, Tateshina offers a wide variety of delicious food and accommodations ranging from full-scale resorts to secluded inns.

Tateshina Highland also offers a wealth of activities, such as pottery making and gardening lessons. The Jomon Period ruins and figurines are also fascinating, allowing you to feel a connection to the ancient people. Even if you don't have a long vacation, Tateshina has plenty to see and do. Please consider visiting Tateshina for your next trip.