Enjoy sightseeing in Tenryukyo! 15 recommended spots to experience nature and traditional culture

The Tenryu River flows from Nagano Prefecture through Aichi and Shizuoka before reaching the Pacific Ocean. Among its many scenic locations, "Tenryukyo" in Iida City, Nagano Prefecture, stands out as a place where visitors can witness breathtaking landscapes reminiscent of traditional Chinese ink paintings.

In spring, the fresh greenery flourishes, and in autumn, the foliage turns vibrant, offering spectacular views of nature’s grandeur. The region is also known for its pure air and delicious water. Additionally, it boasts a variety of gourmet delights, including soba noodles and fresh fruits. With hot springs available, it’s an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway.

To make your visit to Tenryukyo even more enjoyable, here’s a guide to the best sightseeing spots in the area.

1. Tenryu River Boat Ride

When it comes to sightseeing in Tenryukyo, the first thing that comes to mind is the "Tenryu River Boat Ride." This popular attraction offers breathtaking natural scenery and a boatman known for lively conversations that make the experience even more enjoyable.

The boat ride follows a gentle stretch of the Tenryu River from "Tenryukyo" to "Karakasa." Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy different seasonal landscapes: in spring, vibrant rock azaleas; in summer, the refreshing breeze through the trees; in autumn, colorful foliage; and in winter, a unique experience aboard a heated kotatsu boat, providing a stunning ink-painting-like view of the river. This seasonal beauty makes the ride a beloved attraction.

The approximately 50-minute journey includes not only a guided tour by the boatman but also a mesmerizing demonstration of traditional net fishing. The route offers a view of the "Tenryukyo Jukkyo" rock formations, named by the renowned calligrapher Meikaku Kusakabe.

The departure and arrival points for this boat ride are conveniently located within walking distance from JR Iida Line’s "Tenryukyo Station" and "Karakasa Station," making it an accessible option for travelers.

2. Tenryukyo walking tour with a Guide

You don’t have to be an experienced hiker to enjoy a nature walk! Exploring Tenryukyo on foot allows you to discover its beauty at your own pace.

A walking trail, "Tenryukyo Promenade," takes approximately an hour and leads visitors through picturesque landmarks, including "Koyakyo Bridge" and "Tsutsuji Bridge"—perfect spots for photography.

Tenryukyo is part of the "Tenryu-Okumikawa Quasi-National Park," boasting lush landscapes, scenic gorges, and nostalgic townscapes. A walk through this region is sure to lift your spirits and refresh your body and mind.

A highlight of this experience is the "Tenryukyo Guide Service," where knowledgeable local guides offer an immersive experience. Reservations must be made by phone or through the official tourism website at least 10 days in advance. The guides reveal hidden gems and lesser-known stories that visitors might otherwise miss, adding a unique charm to the walk.

For families with children, a "stamp rally" event is also available, making the tour even more engaging. Enjoy an enriching sightseeing experience while immersing yourself in Tenryukyo’s natural beauty!

3. Tokimata Lantern Floating and Fireworks Festival

A summer vacation wouldn’t be complete without a fireworks display! Tenryukyo offers a breathtaking festival where visitors can witness a dazzling combination of fireworks and traditional lantern floating.

Held annually at Tokimata Port in Tenryukyo, this festival is not just a celebration but also a spiritual event for the people of Iida, as it serves as a memorial service for departed souls. In the evening, Buddhist monks chant prayers while fire-lit lanterns float down the Tenryu River from upstream. The gentle glow of these lanterns creates a stunning, dreamlike atmosphere.

Following the lantern floating, a grand fireworks display lights up the night sky. The highlight of the show is the "Niagara Falls" fireworks—a powerful spectacle that engulfs the sky in cascading light, often leaving the audience in awe.

In addition to the lanterns and fireworks, visitors can enjoy performances, including traditional taiko drum shows. Arriving early to secure a good viewing spot along the riverbank is highly recommended for the best experience. Enjoy the cool evening breeze of Tenryukyo while immersing yourself in this spectacular summer event!

4. Tenryukyo Flower Festival

Held annually on the third Sunday of April, the "Tenryukyo Flower Festival" is a cherished local event, also known as the "Spring Tourism Festival of Iida." The festival exudes a warm, community-driven atmosphere, making visitors feel at home.

The festival is packed with activities. The morning kicks off with the "Tenryukyo Health Marathon," where participants run through beautiful spring scenery. Later, in the town square, visitors can enjoy live performances by elementary and middle school brass bands while exploring food stalls offering Tenryukyo’s local flavors. The entire town comes alive with festivity, making even first-time visitors feel like part of the community.

A must-see attraction during the festival is the parade, featuring kindergarteners dressed in traditional attire, as well as dramatic performances of the "Dragon God" and "Lion Dance." The energetic and historic performances are captivating, making this festival one of Tenryukyo’s most exciting events.

5. Imada Puppet Theater

Iida City, home to Tenryukyo, is rich in cultural traditions, including the "Lantern Floating Ceremony" and "Flower Festival." Another cherished tradition is the "Imada Puppet Theater."

With roots dating back to 1704, Imada Puppet Theater is not only a historical performance art but also designated as a "Nationally Selected Intangible Folk Cultural Property." Passed down for over 300 years in the Tatsue district of Tenryukyo, this unique form of puppet theater remains a source of pride for local residents. Schools in the Tenryukyo area even include it in their club activities, and performances have been held internationally, showcasing its significance as a cultural treasure.

The theater hosts performances several times a year, with the highlight being the "Autumn Festival Dedication Puppet Show" in October. Lit only by candlelight, this event provides a mesmerizing and almost otherworldly experience, making visitors feel as if they’ve traveled back in time. A visit to this rare and immersive theatrical performance is a truly special part of Tenryukyo’s cultural tourism.

6. Fruit Picking

The area surrounding Tenryukyo provides the perfect conditions for growing delicious fruit, with abundant sunlight, adequate rainfall, and most importantly, pristine water. This region is particularly famous for apples and other fruits, and numerous farms allow visitors to experience the joy of harvesting fruit as a part of their sightseeing adventure.

Here are some of the best fruit-picking farms in Tenryukyo, categorized by fruit type.

◆ Sakura Farm

Cherry picking is becoming increasingly popular in Tenryukyo, with more farms growing these small, bright red fruits each year. Cherries are not only deliciously sweet and tangy but also visually appealing, making them irresistible.

At "Sakura Farm," visitors can enjoy cherry picking between May and June each year, sampling freshly harvested, fully ripened cherries on the spot.

The farm is conveniently located just five minutes by car from JR Iida Line’s Tenryukyo Station, making it easy to combine this activity with other sightseeing plans. Reservations are required, and there are a few entry guidelines, so be sure to check the farm’s website before your visit.

◆ Kinoshita Farm

When people think of Tenryukyo, apples immediately come to mind. Many orchards in the area offer apple-picking experiences, but "Kinoshita Farm" goes a step further by also offering peach and pear picking. Because of this variety, the farm operates for an extended period—from July to early December—making it a convenient option for fruit-picking tourism.

In addition to fruit picking, "Kinoshita Farm" offers a BBQ lunch service featuring premium Shinshu beef from Nagano Prefecture. The farm provides all the necessary equipment, ingredients, and even handles cleanup, allowing visitors to fully enjoy their time without any hassle. It’s a great way to spend a carefree day exploring Tenryukyo.

◆ Imadaira

"Imadaira" is an excellent farm for families visiting Tenryukyo, offering a delightful strawberry-picking experience. From February to May, visitors can enjoy picking and tasting sweet, juicy strawberries, including popular varieties such as "Akihime" and "Benihoppe." In addition to fruit picking, the farm also offers a hands-on experience in making strawberry jam. For more details, visitors can inquire directly by phone.

The farm also features a field for "Mallet Golf," a sport that originated in Japan. Using a mallet and ball, players try to complete a course in as few strokes as possible.

Spending a day with family, enjoying the fresh air of Tenryukyo, and engaging in fun outdoor activities makes for a perfect sightseeing experience.

7. Apple Footbath

Tenryukyo’s apples are not just for eating—they’re also used for relaxation! From April to November, visitors can enjoy the unique experience of the "Apple Foot Bath."

Located just a five-minute walk from JR Iida Line’s Tenryukyo Station, this charming foot bath overlooks Tenryukyo’s scenic views. The hot water used in the bath comes from Tenryukyo Onsen, and the wooden bath tub, designed to resemble a traditional boat, is filled with floating apples, making it a visually delightful experience.

The tranquil setting, with views of the local train line and the surrounding landscape, provides the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring Tenryukyo. Soaking in the warm, apple-infused water not only soothes tired feet but also refreshes the entire body.

8. Tenryukyo Onsen Ryukyotei

A relaxing soak at the historic "Ryukyotei" hotel is another way to enhance your sightseeing experience in Tenryukyo.

Tenryukyo Onsen was discovered in 1989, and its natural hot spring waters are said to be beneficial for both health and rejuvenation. The slightly silky texture of the water is believed to have beautifying properties.

The large communal bath at "Ryukyotei" features expansive windows that offer breathtaking views of Tenryukyo, creating the sensation of bathing amidst nature. For tourists, the hotel offers a "Day-Use Package," which includes a hot spring bath and a lunch featuring fresh local ingredients from Tenryukyo and the Minami-Shinshu region. Enjoying a hot spring bath while admiring the natural beauty of Tenryukyo, followed by a leisurely meal at a historic inn, is truly a luxurious sightseeing experience.

9. Tenryukyo Station

"Tenryukyo Station" is a stop along the JR Iida Line, which stretches 195.7 km from Toyohashi Station in Aichi Prefecture, passing through Shizuoka Prefecture, and reaching Tatsuno Station in Nagano Prefecture. The area around Tenryukyo Station is rich in natural beauty, offering a remote and tranquil atmosphere.

The station itself has a nostalgic charm. Built in December 1929, it features a symmetrical Western-style design with stained-glass windows and a weathercock on its roof. It’s a photogenic spot, especially when surrounded by snow in winter. Inside the waiting room, historical photos are displayed, creating a mini-gallery-like experience.

After visiting Tenryukyo Station, a leisurely stroll through the town is highly recommended. The area features gently sloping streets lined with shops selling local specialties such as "basashi" (horse sashimi), "gohei-mochi" (grilled rice cakes with sweet sauce), and fresh produce from Tenryukyo’s farms. The friendly shopkeepers and laid-back atmosphere often entice visitors to browse and shop longer than they originally planned.

10. COCORO FARM VILLAGE

Nestled in the natural beauty of Tenryukyo, "COCORO FARM VILLAGE" is a stylish complex with a modern black-themed design that blends harmoniously with the surroundings. It’s a place where visitors can shop, dine, and enjoy a fulfilling experience.

The facility is divided into three main areas:

"Ristorante Cocorhythm" is an Italian restaurant that specializes in sophisticated dishes made primarily with locally sourced ingredients from the Tenryukyo region. Their handmade pasta is a favorite among visitors. "Farm Café Cocoro" offers freshly baked bread and burgers packed with fresh, locally grown vegetables. The cozy atmosphere makes it a place where guests often find themselves lingering longer than planned.

The third section, "Cocoro Marche," is a market where visitors can purchase fresh vegetables from Tenryukyo, as well as unique, locally made processed foods. These specialty items are created through collaborations between farmers and chefs from the restaurants, making them exclusive to this location.

Additionally, the restaurant’s terrace is pet-friendly! It’s a wonderful stop for those traveling with their furry companions, creating a space where the whole family can relax and smile together.

11. Azalea Farmers’ Market

Azalea is a farmers' market conveniently located just a short walk from JR Iida Line’s Tenryukyo Station, making it a great stop after enjoying activities like the "Tenryu River Boat Ride" or the "Tenryukyo Walking Tour."

This market sells fresh, locally harvested vegetables, fruits, and wild plants from the Tenryukyo region, along with handmade jams, juices, and other specialties. It functions much like a roadside station, offering a wide variety of regional products. Additionally, the market features a "San'en Nanshin" corner, which stocks specialty items from Shizuoka and Aichi Prefectures, all available at reasonable prices. It’s an excellent spot for picking up souvenirs from Tenryukyo.

Beyond shopping, the market offers hands-on experiences such as making gohei-mochi (grilled rice cakes), soba noodle making, vegetable harvesting, felt crafting, and traditional doll-making workshops. These activities make it a fun destination for families, especially during summer vacations.

12. Kozenji Temple

A 30-minute drive from Tenryukyo, nestled among centuries-old towering trees, stands "Kozenji Temple," a significant temple of the Tendai sect. It is famous for the legend of "Hayataro," the sacred dog who is said to have defeated a monstrous creature. To this day, Hayataro's grave is enshrined here, symbolizing protection and reverence.

Kozenji is renowned for its beautiful weeping cherry blossoms and daffodils. It is also home to a rare plant called "hikari-goke" (luminous moss), which emits a faint green glow in dark, humid environments like caves. This moss is considered a rare and endangered species.

The temple also boasts the only three-story pagoda in the Minami-Shinshu region, along with a serene garden that offers visitors a tranquil retreat, making it a perfect place for quiet reflection and appreciation of nature.

13. Kinehara School

Kinehara School is a preserved middle school building from 1949, now open as a unique sightseeing attraction. Though it was closed in 1985, it remains an officially registered tangible cultural property of Japan.

The school’s wooden structure, with its nostalgic veneer walls, exudes a historical charm. It gained further recognition as a filming location for the 2008 movie Kabei: Our Mother, starring Sayuri Yoshinaga, and the 2015 film Living with My Mother, featuring Kazunari Ninomiya. Visitors can explore exhibits of farming tools and household items from the early Showa period, as well as props used during the film productions.

However, the greatest attraction of all is the overwhelming sense of nostalgia that fills the air simply by standing inside the school building. Whether traveling solo, on a mother-daughter trip, or with close friends, visitors can step back in time and immerse themselves in the nostalgic atmosphere of a bygone era.

Additionally, the school offers interactive experiences where local guides act as "teachers," allowing guests to sit at traditional wooden desks and take part in old-fashioned lessons. Those interested should inquire using the contact information below.

14. Tatsue Nanawa no Sato Firefly Festival

Tenryukyo remains one of the few places in Japan where nature is still beautifully preserved. One of the most magical experiences of the area is witnessing the "Genji Fireflies" at night.

Several spots around Tenryukyo offer firefly viewing, with one of the best being "Nanawa no Sato" in Tatsue, located just a five-minute drive from JR Iida Line’s Tenryukyo Station. From late June for about a month, visitors can enjoy the enchanting sight of fireflies glowing along the cool riverbanks.

These fireflies are the result of dedicated conservation efforts by the local community, who have worked tirelessly year-round to maintain the river environment and cultivate the fireflies’ food source, "kawanina" (a type of freshwater snail). Knowing this adds an extra layer of appreciation to the experience of watching these delicate creatures light up the night.

At the end of June, the "Tatsue Nanawa no Sato Firefly Festival" is held, featuring food stalls selling gohei-mochi, handmade soba, grilled skewers, and more. Spectators can also enjoy lively performances, including yosakoi dance.

Spending a summer evening under the glowing fireflies of Tenryukyo is sure to create unforgettable memories.

15. Iida City Museum

A 20-minute drive from Tenryukyo, or a 20-minute walk from JR Iida Line’s Iida Station, the "Iida City Museum of Art and History" is a must-visit cultural site. The museum’s unique architecture is designed to reflect the surrounding mountains of Iida City, with its straight columns representing trees and the structure itself symbolizing the nearby Alps. Visitors can fully appreciate the design by heading up to the rooftop for a panoramic view of the cityscape, showcasing the vision of renowned Iida-born architect Hiroshi Hara.

The museum houses a collection of works by "Shunso Hishida," a celebrated Meiji-era painter from Iida. It also features a community gallery, a library, a planetarium, and even a rental bicycle service. With so much to explore, the museum offers a diverse and enriching sightseeing experience.

◎ Summary of sightseeing spots in Tenryukyo where you can enjoy nature and traditional culture

Tenryukyo is a place that values both nature and tradition. Whether taking a scenic drive with a rental car for a relaxing day trip or embarking on an overnight journey via the JR Iida Line while enjoying an ekiben (train station bento), there are many ways to experience the area.

With its fresh air, soothing hot springs, and delicious local cuisine, Tenryukyo offers a refreshing escape from the fast-paced city life.

This guide aims to help make your Tenryukyo visit truly memorable. May your journey here be one that you’ll always cherish!

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Enjoy sightseeing in Tenryukyo! 15 recommended spots to experience nature and traditional culture