Lake Suwa

Lake Suwa is a scenic freshwater lake located in Nagano Prefecture, central Japan, sitting at an elevation of approximately 760 meters above sea level. The lake spans roughly 13.3 square kilometers and is situated in the city of Suwa, which developed historically as a post town along the Nakasendō, one of the five major routes connecting Edo (modern-day Tokyo) to Kyoto during the feudal period.

The lake holds deep cultural significance as the home of Suwa Taisha, one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, which consists of four separate shrine buildings positioned around the lake. According to local legend, the lake's surface sometimes cracks and rises in winter, creating an ice ridge phenomenon called omiwatari (literally "crossing of the gods"), believed to be the path of the deity traveling between the shrines. This natural occurrence happens when the lake freezes completely and rapid temperature fluctuations cause the ice to expand and buckle, though it has become less frequent in recent years due to climate change.

Visitors to Lake Suwa can experience several distinct attractions depending on the season. The lakeside promenade offers views of the surrounding mountains and access to observation points, hot spring facilities, and the Suwa Lake Geyser Center, where a natural geyser erupts at regular intervals. Summer brings the annual Suwa Lake Fireworks Festival, one of Japan's largest fireworks displays, held in mid-August. The lake's winter freezing also attracts visitors hoping to witness the omiwatari phenomenon, typically occurring in late January or February when conditions permit.

The lake is easily accessible from Kamisuwa Station on the JR Chūō Main Line, located approximately two and a half hours by limited express train from Tokyo's Shinjuku Station. The station sits directly adjacent to the northern shore, making the lake immediately accessible on foot. Local buses circle the lake, connecting major attractions. The Suwa Taisha shrines do not charge admission.