16 Recommended Tourist Spots in Hotaka! Explore the Full Charm of Hotaka’s Attractions

Hotaka, located in Azumino, boasts a rich variety of attractions. From serene spots to admire nature, vibrant flowers, and unique wildlife, to historical landmarks and exciting activities for the adventurous, Hotaka has something for everyone. The area around Hotaka Station offers a full day of enjoyable sightseeing opportunities.

For added convenience, bicycle rentals are available near Hotaka Station, a popular option among visitors. Cycling allows you to soak in the breathtaking rural landscapes that define the Hotaka area, turning the journey between destinations into a memorable part of your trip. This guide highlights 16 must-see locations near Hotaka Station, all easily accessible by rental bike.

1. Daio Wasabi Farm

Located about 10 minutes by car from Hotaka and accessible by renting a bicycle from Hotaka Station, Daio Wasabi Farm is a popular tourist destination. It is Japan’s largest wasabi farm, featuring vast wasabi fields and offering wasabi-flavored gourmet treats. Here, visitors of all ages can enjoy a full day exploring the site, including clear boat tours along the waterside and observing wasabi root processing at the Wasabi Maruhori Processing Plant.
Daio Wasabi Farm in Hotaka is also well-known as a filming location for TV shows and boasts the largest area of wasabi cultivation in Japan. By staggering planting cycles, the farm ensures year-round harvesting, allowing visitors to enjoy fresh, in-season wasabi any time of the year. The lush greenery of May and the stunning autumn leaves in October are particularly recommended times to visit.
The waterside area, featuring a watermill that has been used as a movie location, is another must-see spot in Hotaka. Visitors can enjoy seasonal landscapes throughout the year. In spring, the willow trees produce fluffy buds known as "yanagibobo," resembling cat tails, while forsythia, flowering quince, and spirea bloom. The sweet scent of black locust fills the air, creating an immersive spring experience.
In winter, icicles form on the waterwheel, and the riverbed is adorned with yellow-green water starwort and ribbons of bur-reed, creating an enchanting and almost spring-like atmosphere. A clear boat ride is highly recommended for exploring the scenic waterside.
Other attractions include the "Bridge of Happiness," Daio Shrine, and the Alps Observation Deck. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine, such as soba noodles while overlooking the wasabi fields. Unique gourmet options like wasabi soft-serve ice cream, wasabi croquettes, and the signature wasabi rice bowl are also available. Be sure to visit Daio Wasabi Farm when exploring Hotaka.

2. Hotaka Shrine

Just a short walk from Hotaka Station, Hotaka Shrine is a must-visit tourist spot in Hotaka. Dedicated to the deity Hotakami-no-Mikoto, it serves as the guardian shrine of the Japanese Alps, with its main sanctuary located at the summit of Mount Okuhotaka. As a prestigious shrine known for enshrining particularly powerful deities, it is widely regarded as a special power spot. The annual "Ofune Matsuri" held in September is a traditional festival that has been passed down through generations and features dynamic and captivating performances.
Hotaka Shrine is believed to offer a wide range of blessings, including financial prosperity, business success, spiritual purification, and good health. As it is also associated with sea deities and the guardian spirits of navigation, it is especially revered as a protector of traffic safety, attracting many visitors praying for safe travels. Additionally, a rare "Mononoke Purification" ceremony is held on the 10th of each month.
The shrine boasts several power spots, including the main hall, worship hall, the Koyo Cedar, Wakamiya Shrine, and the sacred water at the purification basin. The main and worship halls are particularly famous for enhancing financial fortune and providing spiritual cleansing. The Koyo Cedar is renowned for granting health and recovery from illness, while Wakamiya Shrine is believed to bring career success. The sacred water from the purification basin is said to promote health.
Natural treasures can also be found on the shrine grounds, such as the monumental Keyaki trees, including a 500-year-old giant near Wakamiya Shrine. These trees convey the majestic power of nature. Be sure to visit the sacred Hotaka Shrine when in the area.

3. Oboata Retention Pond

Located about 15 minutes by car from Hotaka Station, "Oboata Retention Pond" is a popular tourist spot where you can observe flocks of swans around late October every year. Against the majestic backdrop of the Northern Alps, the sight of swans resting and relaxing is breathtaking. Many photographers visit this recommended sightseeing spot in Hotaka to capture the stunning scenery.
Swans typically migrate from Siberia around late October and return by late March. During the day, they may spend time in nearby rice fields, but the period from mid-January to early February is when the number of swans peaks. Visitors can also feed the swans and ducks. The view of the swans with the Northern Alps in the background is an extraordinary sight rarely seen in everyday life. Early morning or sunrise is especially recommended for swan watching.
"Oboata Retention Pond" offers a magical landscape, making it a must-visit when traveling to Hotaka. Additionally, the area around the pond includes the Nature Experience and Exchange Center "Seseragi," which displays photos of migratory birds like swans and exhibits of collected insect specimens.

4. Kichijosan Tokoji Temple

"Kichijosan Tokoji Temple" is located about 10 minutes by car or 20 minutes on foot from Hotaka Station. You can also rent a bicycle at Hotaka Station, making it enjoyable to explore the scenery of Hotaka while heading to the temple. One striking feature is the three enormous vermillion geta (traditional Japanese wooden clogs) called "Kichijo Nio-sama's Geta," one of the Seven Lucky Gods. It is said that wearing these large geta will make your wishes come true.
The temple is believed to bring benefits such as good fortune, protection from misfortune, family safety, traffic safety, and the fulfillment of various wishes. The unique giant vermillion geta serve as a great photo opportunity. Commemorative photo panels are also set up behind and next to the gate, so be sure to take pictures as souvenirs. There are versions featuring the Nio guardians, matchmaking Dosojin, and Kichijo Dosojin, offering fun for everyone.
Other highlights include dragon carvings on the temple gate beams, the A-un guardian statues, and the "Azumino Pure Water" chosen as one of Japan's 100 Best Waters. A splendid garden also stretches in front of the main hall. Be sure to visit "Kichijosan Tokoji Temple" during your trip to Hotaka.

5. Azumino-no-Sato

Located about 20 minutes by car from Hotaka Station, "Azumino-no-Sato" is a tourist facility where both children and adults can enjoy themselves. It includes attractions such as Village Azumino, the Tabuchi Yukio Memorial Museum, Azumino Glass Studio, and Tonbodama Rakusha. In winter, swans also migrate to the Saigawa River nearby. Buildings designed in the style of Shinshu's traditional houses harmonize with the grandeur of the Northern Alps, providing a relaxing atmosphere.
At "Azumino-no-Sato," you can also participate in hands-on crafting activities. At the Azumino Glass Studio, visitors can watch glassmakers at work. Most of the glass pieces in the shop are made on-site, allowing you to find your favorite glasswork while observing the crafting process.
Visitors can also try hands-on activities, such as making original glassware through a glassblowing experience, which makes for a memorable souvenir of your trip to Hotaka.
The seasonal nighttime illuminations are particularly impressive. Featuring creations by artists from the Azumino Glass Studio, the display includes illuminations inspired by swans migrating to Azumino's winter skies. The sparkling lights create a magical atmosphere. You can enjoy a meal while admiring the illuminations. Whether by bike or car, make sure to add Azumino-no-Sato to your sightseeing itinerary.

6. Forest’s House Picture Book Museum

Just 15 minutes by car from Hotaka Station lies the Forest’s House Picture Book Museum, a must-visit destination in Hotaka. Set in a peaceful location surrounded by towering red pines, this charming museum offers a serene retreat. Gentle sunlight filtering through the trees creates a warm and relaxing atmosphere. Visitors can explore the enchanting world of picture books through exhibitions of original illustrations and artworks. The on-site café adds a delightful touch, serving creative dishes inspired by the exhibits.
The museum’s first floor hosts seasonal exhibitions and events like music performances, providing a dynamic experience. Upstairs, the second-floor gallery showcases original illustrations and paintings, with displays rotating five to six times a year. The high ceilings and spacious design make it the perfect place to unwind and immerse yourself in art.
Don’t miss “Cafe Polano” after your visit, where you can enjoy freshly baked cakes, light snacks, and drinks. Guests staying in nearby cottages can also savor breakfast here. The café’s large windows offer scenic views of the forest, creating a tranquil and inviting setting. Before you leave, browse the gift shop for charming picture book-themed merchandise and keepsakes.

7. Azumino Art Hills Museum

The Azumino Art Hills Museum is a 10-minute drive from Hotaka Station and offers a stunning mix of art, nature, and creativity. Specializing in glass art, this museum not only displays exquisite works but also allows visitors to experience the joy of creating their own glass pieces. A highlight is the Émile Gallé Museum within the facility, featuring works by Émile Gallé and other glass artisans. The gallery carefully curates Gallé’s works in chronological order, including rare furniture pieces, inviting you to connect deeply with his artistic legacy.

Families and individuals alike can enjoy hands-on workshops. Popular activities include glass blowing for kids and adults, while sandblasting, glass stamping, and fusing provide fun options for all ages. These immersive experiences let visitors truly appreciate the beauty of glassmaking.

Dine with a view of the Northern Alps and the Hotaka countryside in the museum’s Italian restaurant. The menu boasts wood-fired pizzas and pasta made with local ingredients. Whether it’s art, dining, or hands-on activities, the Azumino Art Hills Museum offers something for everyone. Make it a key stop during your Hotaka visit.

8. Hotaka Onsenkyo

End your day in Hotaka with a soothing visit to Hotaka Onsenkyo, located just 30 minutes by car from Hotaka Station. Perfect for relaxation, this hot spring area features one large hotel, about 40 traditional inns, and a public day-use facility called “Onsen Kenkokan.”

The natural hot spring water is a simple sulfur type with a source temperature exceeding 90°C. While most inns use piped water, some offer it in its natural state without reheating. Known for its therapeutic properties, the water is said to benefit neuralgia, rheumatism, diabetes, and digestive health. The mildly alkaline quality also makes it excellent for skincare. Visitors can enjoy a casual soak at the “Hachimen Daiou Ashiyu” footbath, a perfect way to rejuvenate during sightseeing.

Accommodation options range from hilltop resort hotels with breathtaking views to ryokans offering local cuisine. The area is surrounded by top attractions like the Daio Wasabi Farm, Hotaka Shrine, and the Azumino Chihiro Art Museum, making it a convenient and enriching place to stay.

9. Okuma Museum

The Okuma Museum, a charming tourist spot in Hotaka with a fairy-tale atmosphere inspired by the land of Andersen, is located about a 13-minute drive from Hotaka Station. It is also an ideal destination to visit by renting a bicycle from the station. The museum exhibits works such as porcelain pieces from Denmark's Royal Copenhagen. The building, as if straight out of a fairy tale, stands in a magical and dreamlike atmosphere.

You can enjoy a variety of art, including traditional Christmas plates, royal Danish porcelain, botanical art, and first editions of Andersen's works. Among the fascinating displays are botanical illustrations inspired by Andersen, first editions of his books, and even 16th-century antique maps. The exhibits evoke the spirit of the Viking age, making for an intriguing experience.

The adjacent café, "Azumino Bunko," is also a must-visit. Here, you can savor tea and cakes in a serene, classical ambiance. All the tableware used is from Royal Copenhagen, so take note of the elegant dishes as well. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Denmark while in Hotaka by visiting the Okuma Museum.

10. Alp Garden

One of the recommended attractions near Hotaka Station is Alp Garden. Located about an 8-minute drive from the station, it is also easily accessible by bicycle rental from the station. It features one of the world's largest rotating flower factories and a tropical rainforest botanical garden, making it a fascinating destination. Visitors can also purchase a variety of colorful seasonal plants at the on-site shop and participate in activities like creating tapestries with succulents.

The highlight of the facility is the rotating flower cultivation plant. This innovative system uses mechanization to ease labor from soil preparation to blooming, with multiple rotating benches. With two-tier benches, it achieves double the production capacity compared to traditional flat cultivation.

The tropical rainforest botanical garden is another must-see. The warm, jungle-like environment offers a unique experience, showcasing rare plants like mango, guava, and Indian rubber trees.

Visitors can also enjoy a hands-on activity of creating miniature succulent tapestries, which are available at an affordable price and provide a memorable way to commemorate your visit to Hotaka. Don’t miss out on Alp Garden when touring Hotaka!

11. La Casta Natural Healing Garden

About a 20-minute drive from Hotaka Station, La Casta Natural Healing Garden offers an attraction centered on “beauty and relaxation.” Here, visitors can enjoy a beautifully landscaped garden in every season, an observation room, an aromatherapy-related factory, and a showroom featuring the brand’s natural cosmetics.

From the observation room, you can take in panoramic views of the garden, the iconic rural scenery of Azumino Hotaka, and the distant Alps. Various themed gardens offer distinct charms, from rose-filled stone archways to gardens blending Japanese aesthetics with large pines and moss, or soothing water features.

The second floor of the factory features the "Fragrance Handcraft Workshop," where you can create your own personalized scent. Using natural herbs and fruits, you can craft original products such as "Oil Toilettes" for wrists, "Bath Oils" for relaxing soaks, or "Fragrance Mists" for your room. These custom creations let you take the relaxing ambiance home with you.

Reservations are required, so be sure to plan ahead. La Casta Natural Healing Garden offers a perfect escape to refresh both mind and body. Don’t miss this must-visit spot during your Hotaka trip!

12. Azumino Vin Sanchi Museum: A Unique Artistic Escape

Just a 15-minute drive from Hotaka Station, the "Azumino Vin Sanchi Museum" is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil retreat for art lovers. This private museum, dedicated to the works of Toshi and Sanae Kitayama, offers a truly distinctive experience. Visitors can admire art both indoors and outdoors—wander through picturesque gardens harmonized with art displays or explore a rustic gallery housed in a log cabin.

The integration of nature and art creates a one-of-a-kind ambiance. Inside the museum, you'll encounter captivating pieces such as owl-inspired artwork, intricate micro-designs, mechanical clocks, and animated picture books. Each exhibit is so immersive that you’ll find yourself lost in the magic of the moment.

The log cabin gallery frequently hosts themed exhibitions. After taking in the art, relax on the terrace with complimentary tea or coffee while enjoying the serene natural surroundings. For a delightful meal, nearby French and Italian restaurants await. Open only on weekends and holidays, the Azumino Vin Sanchi Museum is a must-visit for a magical experience in Hotaka.

13. Kuriozan Mangakuji Temple & Azalea Park: A Historic and Scenic Marvel

Located 20 minutes by car from Hotaka Station, the "Kuriozan Mangakuji Temple" combines deep historical significance with stunning natural beauty. Founded in 725 AD when a golden Buddha statue was discovered at Chojaga Pond, the temple was commissioned by Emperor Shomu to enshrine this sacred artifact.

The temple grounds are modeled after the Buddhist Pure Land, complete with the symbolic "Bimyo Bridge," which represents crossing the River of Three Crossings. Inside the main hall, visitors can explore the "Hell and Paradise Transformational Painting," a vivid depiction of the trials of the afterlife.

Kuriozan is renowned for its breathtaking autumn foliage, blending the temple’s timeless architecture with vibrant seasonal colors. In spring, the temple’s azalea garden takes center stage, with around 6,000 blooms of vivid red and white azaleas reaching full glory between mid-May and early June. This destination is a harmonious blend of history and seasonal beauty, making it a top pick for visitors to Hotaka.

14. Rokuzan Art Museum: Discover the Legacy of Modern Japanese Sculpture

Conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Hotaka Station, the "Rokuzan Art Museum" celebrates the life and works of Morihei Hagiwara (Rokuzan), a trailblazer in Japanese modern sculpture. The museum also showcases works by other prominent artists connected to Rokuzan’s legacy.

The main building, "Rokuzankan," is a stunning structure reminiscent of a European church, crafted from brick. As a cherished symbol of Azumino, it captivates both residents and visitors. Inside, Rokuzan's sculptures are complemented by the adjoining "Moriekan," where oil paintings and sketches are displayed on the first floor, and the second floor serves as a library and lecture venue.

The "First Exhibition Hall" features pieces by Rokuzan’s contemporaries, such as Kotaro Takamura, providing an in-depth look into the roots of modern sculpture. Meanwhile, the "Second Exhibition Hall" hosts permanent collections alongside special exhibits in an airy space filled with natural light.

Visitors can also enjoy film screenings, detailed material displays, and a museum shop. Additionally, art classes are offered for young students, adding an educational dimension to this cultural treasure.

15. Azumino Jansem Museum

The Azumino Jansem Museum is the world’s first museum exclusively dedicated to the works of Armenian artist Jean Jansem. While his creations can be admired in prestigious venues like the Musée d'Orsay and the Ennery Museum, as well as in art spaces across Europe and America, no other museum gathers as extensive a collection of his works as this one. Nestled in a serene forest, it offers a perfect setting to experience Jansem’s art in peaceful dialogue.

In addition to its permanent collection, the museum hosts seasonal exhibitions and occasionally features music events in its elegant hall. The attached café serves delightful treats, including freshly baked tarts and handmade soba noodles. Its pet-friendly terrace seating makes it an ideal stop for visitors with furry companions.

A visit to the museum shop is also highly recommended. It offers exclusive　merchandise such as catalogs and postcards inspired by Jansem’s masterpieces.
Whether you’re a passionate art lover or a casual traveler, the Azumino Jansem Museum invites you to enjoy a moment of tranquility amidst the dappled light of the forest. Be sure to include this destination on your Hotaka itinerary.

16. Dōsojin Experience Club

At the Dōsojin Experience Club, you can take part in making soba noodles using the pure spring waters of the Northern Alps. This unique hands-on experience doesn’t stop there—you can also try creating local specialties like oyaki (a savory stuffed dumpling) and buckwheat galettes, both beloved in Azumino.

The soba you prepare here, crafted with Azumino’s famed spring water, is nothing short of exceptional. Perfect for families, the experience is a memorable way to explore Hotaka’s culinary heritage, and it includes freshly grated wasabi for an authentic flavor boost. Skilled instructors provide clear, patient guidance, ensuring that everyone—from children to seniors—can participate with ease.

The buckwheat galettes, in particular, are a treat, with their delicate aroma and unique taste. As advance reservations are required, it’s best to plan your visit ahead of time. Afterward, explore nearby attractions like soothing hot springs or scenic natural spots. Add a special touch to your Hotaka adventure with the Dōsojin Experience Club!

◎ Summary

The Hotaka area in Azumino offers seasonal landscapes and attractions year-round, promising a fulfilling and memorable experience. Even on rainy days, there are plenty of sightseeing spots to explore, so you can enjoy your visit to Hotaka without worry.

For those renting a bicycle, why not take a spontaneous approach and explore Hotaka without a set itinerary? Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of the area, pedal freely, and discover charming spots along the way. This carefree journey can turn into a truly unforgettable adventure. With so many ways to experience its charm, Hotaka is definitely worth a visit!

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16 Recommended Tourist Spots in Hotaka! Explore the Full Charm of Hotaka’s Attractions