Lake Suwa
Nagano, Japan • INR 1736 - INR 29164 approx.• 
Underrated
Underrated
Best months to visit
Apr, Aug
3°C – 16°C, mild spring weather with frequent sunny days, high crowds, peak season
3°C – 16°C, mild spring weather with frequent sunny days, high crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
Lake path is flat, paved, with benches and ramps for easy access.
Lake path is flat, paved, with benches and ramps for easy access.
Value for money
Medium
Free areas balance paid activities, offering good value.
Free areas balance paid activities, offering good value.
Highlights we curated for you
See what similar travellers think of this activity
C
Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Scenic Beauty
Couples raved over the romantic lakeside walks & stunning views of Mt. Fuji.
Relaxing Onsen
Visitors found the free footbaths and onsen experiences very relaxing and enjoyable.
Easy Access
Couples found the train access and flat paths around the lake very convenient.
Water Quality
Some couples noted trash in the lake, which affected the overall experience.
Crowded Events
Travelers felt the fireworks festival was too crowded for a relaxing visit.
Limited Activities
Some couples found the boat cruises a bit short and the options limited.
How to book
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GetyourguidePremium Experience with Hotel Pickup
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KlookPrivate Full-Day Tour
Non-refundable
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USD 120
per_person
BOOK
Hours of operation
Monday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Tuesday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Wednesday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Thursday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Friday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Saturday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Sunday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
In-depth experience
May contain spoilers
Watch curated videos from fellow travellers for a glimpse of what to expect.
A traveler embarks on an enchanting exploration of Lake Suwa.
When to visit
We've analysed user reviews and geographical data, and identified the best and worst months to visit.
Month
Crowd Level
Weather
Availability
Our recommendation
December
LOW
-3-7°C
Cold with the onset of winter; occasional snow possible, creating a picturesque lakeside scene. Some days may be icy.
Cold with the onset of winter; occasional snow possible, creating a picturesque lakeside scene. Some days may be icy.
Open
Lake activities may be limited due to cold; access to hot springs and local museums remains open.
Lake activities may be limited due to cold; access to hot springs and local museums remains open.
Recommended
December is serene with a wintry landscape. Perfect for enjoying the hot springs and the peaceful lakeside environment. Transport and accommodations are available, though some outdoor activities may be reduced.
December is serene with a wintry landscape. Perfect for enjoying the hot springs and the peaceful lakeside environment. Transport and accommodations are available, though some outdoor activities may be reduced.
January
LOW
-7-3°C
Cold winter conditions. The lake is often partially frozen, and the unique Omiwatari ice phenomenon may occur. Snow is possible but precipitation is generally moderate.
Cold winter conditions. The lake is often partially frozen, and the unique Omiwatari ice phenomenon may occur. Snow is possible but precipitation is generally moderate.
Open
Some lake activities like pleasure cruises may be suspended due to ice, but walking, sightseeing, and hot spring visits remain accessible.
Some lake activities like pleasure cruises may be suspended due to ice, but walking, sightseeing, and hot spring visits remain accessible.
Recommended
January is notable for the Omiwatari ice phenomenon and serene winter scenery. Hot springs are especially popular, but some water-based activities may be limited.
January is notable for the Omiwatari ice phenomenon and serene winter scenery. Hot springs are especially popular, but some water-based activities may be limited.
February
LOW
-6-5°C
Continued cold with frozen lake conditions possible. Occasional snow, but mostly clear days. Omiwatari may still be visible.
Continued cold with frozen lake conditions possible. Occasional snow, but mostly clear days. Omiwatari may still be visible.
Open
Most outdoor and sightseeing activities are available, but some water activities may remain suspended.
Most outdoor and sightseeing activities are available, but some water activities may remain suspended.
Recommended
February offers tranquil lakeside views and is suited for those seeking a quiet winter retreat. Hot springs and local cuisine are highlights.
February offers tranquil lakeside views and is suited for those seeking a quiet winter retreat. Hot springs and local cuisine are highlights.
March
MEDIUM
-2-10°C
Cool early spring temperatures. Occasional rain or late snow, but the lake begins to thaw and surrounding nature starts to awaken.
Cool early spring temperatures. Occasional rain or late snow, but the lake begins to thaw and surrounding nature starts to awaken.
Open
Most activities resume as ice melts. Some seasonal attractions may still be preparing to open.
Most activities resume as ice melts. Some seasonal attractions may still be preparing to open.
Recommended
March marks the start of spring. Enjoy lakeside walks and early blossoms, with more activities becoming available as temperatures rise.
March marks the start of spring. Enjoy lakeside walks and early blossoms, with more activities becoming available as temperatures rise.
How to get there
Bike
Recommended
A 16km cycling path, the Suwa-ko Cycling Road, encircles the lake, with bike rentals available near the train stations.
Car
Recommended
Driving via the Chuo Expressway, with the Suwa Interchange as the main exit, offers flexibility. Parking is available around the lake.
Train
Recommended
The JR Chuo Line to Kami-Suwa Station is the primary access point, with the JR Limited Express Azusa from Shinjuku Station being the most efficient option.
Boat
Boat services, including swan-shaped boats and the amphibious Duck Tour, depart from near Suwa Lakeside Park.
Bus
Highway buses from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal arrive at Kami-Suwa, and local buses like Karin-chan and Swan Bus serve the Suwa area.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available at Kami-Suwa Station for convenient transport to various destinations around Lake Suwa.
Walking
The area around Kami-Suwa Station and the lakefront is highly walkable, with many attractions within easy reach.
Additional info
Here's what you need to know about this experience
Mobility
Wheelchair Accessible
Walking Required
Stairs Present
Seating Available
Flat Terrain
Hiking Required
Elevator Available
Mobility Scooter Friendly
Ramps Available
Pregnancy
Suitable for pregnancy
Allowed during pregnancy
Pets
Pets allowed
Driving
Driving License Required
Idp Required