10 Recommended Tourist Spots in Ōmachi City, Nagano Prefecture – The Town of the Northern Alps

Ōmachi City, known as “The Capital of the Northern Alps,” is located in Nagano Prefecture. On its western side, majestic mountains over 3,000 meters—such as Yarigatake and Noguchi Goro-dake—line the horizon. Not only can you enjoy mountain tourism, but in winter, ski resorts nestled at the foothills of the Northern Alps are also popular attractions in Ōmachi.

Moreover, Ōmachi City is not only blessed with abundant nature but also rich in history, culture, and traditional crafts. In Ōmachi, you can deepen your knowledge of history and culture or even experience traditional craftsmanship firsthand.

Here, we introduce 10 recommended tourist spots in Ōmachi City. If any of these catch your interest, be sure to plan your next day off to visit Ōmachi City.

1. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

Ōmachi City serves as the Nagano-side starting point of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, which connects Ōmachi City’s Ougisawa Station and Tateyama Station in Tateyama Town, Nakaniikawa District, Toyama Prefecture. This mountain tourism route, which involves a combination of walking and various modes of transportation, is internationally renowned for its scale. The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is an essential sightseeing attraction in Ōmachi.

The maximum elevation difference between Ōmachi City’s Ougisawa Station and Tateyama Station is 1975 meters, and nearly the entire route lies within Chūbu-Sangaku National Park. It passes many famous Ōmachi attractions, including the Kurobe Dam. The panoramic view of Kurobe Lake and the Tateyama mountain range from the rooftop observatory at Daikanbō Station is one of the most beautiful sights along the route. Be sure to experience it when you visit Ōmachi City!

The vehicles used on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route are quite unique, and they are part of the experience. The image shows Japan’s only electric-powered trolley bus. In addition, you can ride the fully underground Kurobe Cable Car and the Tateyama Ropeway, providing you with unforgettable experiences alongside your sightseeing!

Between Ōmachi City’s Ougisawa Station and Tateyama Station, there are several intermediate stops with hotels and mountain huts, each serving as a base for hiking, trekking, and other activities. Whether you choose to enjoy a day trip or stay overnight for a more relaxed exploration, there are countless course combinations available. Create your own ideal travel plan and enjoy your journey to the fullest!

2. Kashimayari Ski Resort

For those seeking an active winter experience in Ōmachi City, Kashimayari Ski Resort is highly recommended. Located at the foothills of the Northern Alps in Ōmachi City, this resort is well-suited to a heavy snowfall area. When visiting Ōmachi, take advantage of the excellent snow quality on the slopes. Among several ski resorts in Ōmachi, Kashimayari Ski Resort stands out for its diverse course options.

After disembarking at Shinano-Ōmachi Station on the JR Ōito Line, take a free shuttle bus for about 30 minutes. With a location boasting a view of the majestic Kashimayari-dake (at an elevation of 2890 m) and an overall elevation of 1550 m, the resort offers dynamic panoramic views and is a perfect spot to enjoy both sightseeing and skiing in Ōmachi City.

The ski area is divided into two parts: the Central Slope centered around “Central Plaza 1130,” which spreads out like a mortar bowl, and the Nakatsuna Slope at the base, offering 16 diverse courses ranging from scenic forest runs to challenging trails, satisfying both beginners and experts. There is also a dedicated kids’ area, making it ideal for families.

Not Only for Skiing—Kashimayari Ski Resort Is Also Recommended for Ōmachi Sightseeing! If you visit Ōmachi in winter, be sure to visit Kashimayari Ski Resort at least once.

3. Alps Tosē Factory

A short taxi ride (about 15 minutes) from Shinano-Ōmachi Station on the JR Ōito Line takes you to Alps Tosē Factory, a unique building shaped like a steamed bun (kamaboko) situated in the middle of rice fields.

Nagano Prefecture, blessed with clean air and snow-melt water from the Northern Alps, is an ideal region for sake brewing. Famous rice varieties such as Miyamanishiki and Hitogokochi are renowned as sake rice. This factory, which was formed by integrating five rice milling factories in Nagano Prefecture, is very large and is the largest in Japan. It processes sake rice used by approximately 70 breweries across Nagano Prefecture, and its scale is unmatched in the region. The milling patterns vary by year and rice variety, and the state-of-the-art automated equipment in the factory enables precise milling suited to each pattern.

Inside the facility, you’ll find playful elements such as a large ladle at the entrance, a rock garden reminiscent of rice paddies, and an object in the shape of a rice mark. Each element is full of whimsy—explore and enjoy each one! Detailed panels explain the milling process, and you can also observe the factory through large glass windows. The exhibition space showcases Japanese sake from about 100 breweries in Nagano Prefecture, with a tasting and sales corner available. Learning about the milling process will make your sake taste even better. This spot is a must for any sake lover visiting Ōmachi.

4. Shinshu Matsusaki Washi Industry

Located about a 15-minute walk from Shinano-Ōmachi Station on the JR Ōito Line, Shinshu Matsusaki Washi Industry offers you the chance to experience the local traditional art of washi (Japanese paper). When visiting Ōmachi, why not also immerse yourself in the region’s traditional culture?

“Matsusaki Washi” refers to the washi produced in Ōmachi City. Its origins are said to date back nearly 1,000 years, when paper was first offered at the worship ceremonies of Nishina Shrine during the Heian period. Later, paper-making techniques were passed down as a side business by farmers and developed further, thanks to the high-quality water of the Takase River and abundant raw materials. At Shinshu Matsusaki Washi Industry in Ōmachi City, you can enjoy a free tour of the workshop where washi is made, so you can experience its charm up close.

Additionally, you can participate in paid washi-making experiences. There are various courses available, including an introductory course to make your own postcard or a workshop to create washi crafts using Matsusaki washi. If you’re interested, be sure to make a reservation in advance.

Visit a tourist spot where you can experience the warmth of handmade washi up close and connect with Ōmachi's traditional craftsmanship. Both guided tours and hands-on workshops are available for individuals and groups, so we recommend calling ahead to inquire.

5. Aoki Lake

Ōmachi City is home to a magnificent lake called Aoki Lake. Aoki Lake is one of the three lakes known collectively as the Nishina Three Lakes, along with Kizaki Lake and Nakatsuna Lake, which are aligned in a north-south row, nestled between the Northern Alps and the Eastern Mountains. The name “Nishina” comes from the Nishina clan, which ruled this region during the medieval period.

Aoki Lake is the largest of the Nishina Three Lakes, ranking third in size in Nagano Prefecture after Suwa Lake and Nojiri Lake. With a depth of 58 meters, it is one of the most transparent and beautiful lakes in the prefecture. In spring, you can enjoy blossoms of Ooyamazakura and kobushi; in summer, the lush green of new foliage; in autumn, the vibrant colors of fall; and in winter, migratory birds can be seen. Aoki Lake offers a variety of seasonal landscapes.

The natural setting of Aoki Lake is also perfect for camping and outdoor activities. Whether it’s cycling, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, hot air ballooning, or even snowmobiling, there are various adventure courses available depending on the season. One of the most popular is the firefly cruise held in summer—enjoy a boat ride around a cape protruding from the lake’s forest, stopping at two spots to view fireflies. The enchanting scenery will undoubtedly evoke a romantic mood.

No matter the season, Aoki Lake offers diverse ways to enjoy its beauty. When you visit Ōmachi City, not only take in the scenery but also challenge yourself to an outdoor adventure unique to the season!

6. Shinano Kisaki Summer University

Another tourist spot related to the Nishina Three Lakes in Ōmachi is “Shinano Kisaki Summer University,” located by Kizaki Lake. Established as Japan’s first summer university in Taishō 6 (1917), it has continuously held lectures every year in early August by the lakeside. This quirky tourist attraction is unique to Ōmachi.

The lecture hall, Shinano Kōdō, is spacious and open, with shoji screens surrounding the space, creating an airy yet inherently formal atmosphere that naturally straightens your posture. The lectures cover a wide range of subjects from social sciences and natural sciences to humanities, and they are designed so that you can have an intimate discussion with the professors.

Since lectures are only held in early August, it may be difficult to catch the timing, but if you get the chance, consider attending a session at Shinano Kisaki Summer University. Spending a day there, feeling the lake breeze and listening to the sound of cicadas, is a truly extraordinary and unforgettable experience.

Access is approximately a 15‑minute taxi ride from Shinano-Ōmachi Station or about a 15‑minute walk north from Shinano Kisaki Station along the lakeshore. It is one of those hidden gems in Ōmachi known only to locals.

7. Takase Gorge

Takase Gorge in Ōmachi City is famous for its autumn foliage, which is at its peak from mid-October to early November. Its beauty is renowned as one of the top attractions in the prefecture. Of course, even outside the autumn season, you can enjoy the majestic natural scenery throughout the year. From late May to mid-June, the lush greenery is breathtaking, and the snowy winter landscapes are equally mystical, as picturesque as a postcard.

Furthermore, along the Takase River in southern Ōmachi, three dams—Takase Dam, Nanakura Dam, and Ōmachi Dam—are lined up. Ōmachi Dam Lake is known as “Ryūjin Lake,” named after the local legend of “Izumi Kotarō.” Adjacent to this, the Takase Gorge Green Park features a monument of a dragon with Kotarō riding on its back. Additionally, part of the dam management office’s first floor is open for tours (by reservation), allowing you to visit the dam’s interior (audit corridor).

Also, quietly nestled in Takase Gorge is Katsunoyu, a hidden hot spring that epitomizes a secret onsen. Soaking in its outdoor bath while enjoying seasonal scenery of fresh greenery, autumn leaves, or snowy landscapes will soothe both body and mind. If you visit Ōmachi, be sure not to miss this tourist attraction.

8. La Casta Natural Healing Garden

La Casta Natural Healing Garden is a nature-filled tourist spot in Ōmachi City. It is part of the Green Factory established by La Casta, a manufacturer of natural healing cosmetics, which combines its factory with a green garden.

Admission is by reservation only, limited to about 100 visitors per day. The garden exudes a very calming atmosphere. Take your time to observe the meticulously maintained garden, filled with flowers, trees, and the scent of fresh grass. The serene setting will relax your mind and invigorate your body. This is truly a two-for-one attraction where you can refresh yourself while sightseeing in Ōmachi.

Furthermore, the factory’s showroom, observatory, and café are available for use. You can also participate in a “make-your-own fragrance” workshop, where you select natural herbs and fruits to create your original oil, bath oil, or fragrance mist. With different seasonal blooms adding to the experience, La Casta Natural Healing Garden is a place you’ll want to visit again and again.

9. Shio no Michi Chōjiya

For those who want to experience history and culture in Ōmachi, Shio no Michi Chōjiya is a must-visit. The ancient Chikuni Kaidō, a transportation route used to carry salt and seafood from the mountains of Shinshu to Itoigawa in Niigata Prefecture, is commonly known as “Shio no Michi.” Its history is so ancient that it is connected to myths from the Kojiki and legends such as “sending salt to the enemy,” which involve figures like Uesugi Kenshin and Takeda Shingen.

Located about a 6‑minute walk from Shinano-Ōmachi Station on the JR Ōito Line, the museum “Shio no Michi Chōjiya” uses the building formerly operated by the Hirabayashi family—a salt wholesaler during the Edo period—as its facility. Inside, you can see the transportation tools, daily life implements, travel attire, bento boxes, and ancient documents from that era. Various lectures and special exhibitions are also held, so check out their schedule if you’re interested.

Adjacent to Shio no Michi Chōjiya is the “Yabusame Hall,” where materials related to traditional horseback archery and local summer festivals are displayed.

When you visit Ōmachi, be sure to stop by “Shio no Michi Chōjiya,” where you can deepen your understanding of the town’s history and culture.

10. Former Nakamura Family Residence

In Ōmachi City, the Former Nakamura Family Residence is a valuable Important Cultural Property. It is accessible by bus from Shinano-Ōmachi Station (about 20 minutes by bus, then a 10-minute walk). Extend your journey a bit to visit this historic residence.

The Nakamura family settled in this area in 1614 (Keichō 19) and gradually grew in influence. The main building was constructed in 1698 (Genroku 11) by local carpenters and is the oldest known residential building in Nagano Prefecture. Together with a storehouse built in 1780 (An'ei 9), it was designated a prefectural treasure in 1993 and, including the storehouse, as a nationally important cultural property in 1997.

With a frontage of 14 ken (about 25.5 m), a depth of 6 ken (about 10.9 m), and a floor area of 84 tsubo, the residence is large and features a thatched roof. Inside, you can still see the earthen floor, stables, board rooms, reception rooms, sleeping quarters, a tea room, and a hemp-drying area. Its size and excellent state of preservation make it famous as a resource for learning about the lifestyle of wealthy farmers during the Edo period.

Learn about history and imagine the lives of those who once lived here at the Former Nakamura Family Residence in Ōmachi City.

◎ Summary

We have introduced 10 recommended tourist spots in Ōmachi City, a town in Nagano Prefecture known as the “Northern Alps Capital.” Did any of these attractions catch your eye? Ōmachi City offers not only opportunities for mountain activities like hiking, skiing, and camping, but also provides cultural and historical experiences and natural beauty throughout the seasons. Whether you want to move your body with outdoor sports, learn about traditional culture, or simply relax while admiring breathtaking views, be sure to visit Ōmachi and enjoy a fulfilling journey in the Northern Alps!