Introduction
Compared to the ruggedness of its peaks, Yatsugatake is admired by the shape of its vast base. When I learned that this land was not only a place of natural beauty, but also a place where many people lived and interacted since time immemorial, I was impressed by how people felt this beautiful nature in the same way as the ancient people received. The plateau area to the west of Yatsugatake has become a leading resort area due to its easy access from Tokyo and the perfect climate for getting away from the summer heat. Things to see and experience are condensed in this area, such as ancient Jomon culture, religious events such as the Onbashira Festival at Suwa Shrine, industries that took advantage of the harsh winter cold, and farmland development with windbreak forests and reservoirs. And every day I stay there is interesting.
Detail
1st day (Religous day)
[All day]
Thoroughly explore Suwa Shrine (2 hours from Shinjyuku station to Chino station by JR express every hour)
Although you will not receive any blessings if you do not visit all four Suwa shrines, you can visit them all in one day. You can get off the JR train at Chino Station and rent a bicycle to visit Kamisha-Maemiya and Kamisha-Hongu, then move to Shimo-Suwa Station and rent a bicycle or walk around Shimosha-Harumiya and Shimosha-Akimiya. Please read the blog for detailed location information and tips.
2nd day (Nature day)
[Early morning]
Feel like you are a painter too, Mishaka pond (30 minutes from Chino station driving towards Yatsugatake)
Photography locations are limited to the west side of the pond, and in the afternoon the surface of the pond reflects light, making it unsuitable for photography. The best time to take photos is in the morning, but free parking lot gets crowded.
[Morning]
Ordinary tourists don’t go to Yokoya Ravine (23 minutes to access to first highlight and 30 minutes to second highlight driving from Chino station. The parking lot for 2nd highlight is the same as for Mishaka pond.)
During the season of autumn leaves, it is beautiful to look up from inside the valley, and from the high ground you can see the Central Alps beyond the carpet of autumn leaves. You can also see this valley from the top of the hill, then return to the Fairy Tale Road and enter the side road that leads to the Yokoya Kannon view point deck. After walking for about 30 minutes along a scenic promenade from the parking lot, you will arrive at the deck covered in autumn leaves. From here you can see Ohtaki fall from above.
[Afternoon]
Moss Forest, a gathering place for people who love the world of Ghibli (24 minutes from Mishaka pond driving along Fairy tale road)
You need at least 3 hours for stay, walking or climbing. No formal mountaineering equipment is required. There are many elderly people and children. Parking is available for a fee. Since you will be walking for 3 hours, you should use the restroom at the parking lot facility.
3rd day (Culture day)
[Morning]
The most densely populated area, foothills of Yatsugatake (15 minutes from Chino station driving to the central of highland of Yatsugatake)
It is said that 5,000 years ago during the middle Jomon period, this area had the highest population density in Japan. Chino also has two of the five national treasure clay figurines. These items are sometimes lent to special exhibitions in other areas, so check the website beforehand.
[Afternoon]
Shirakaba Highland, a traditional Japanese resort (20 minutes from central highland of Yatsugatake, 30 minutes from here to Chino station driving back)
There are pleasant observation decks all over the place, so be careful not to take too much time on detours. Enjoy real resort !
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