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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Shiojiri.
Nestled amidst the rolling hills and lush greenery of Japan, Shiojiri beckons travelers with its enchanting beauty and intriguing culture.
From exploring ancient temples to indulging in mouth-watering delicacies, there’s no dearth of thrilling activities to experience in this idyllic town.
So, come and be a part of the myriad of vibrant hues that Shiojiri has to offer and discover the true essence of this charming destination.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Shiojiri:
1. Hiraoka Shrine
A beautiful Shinto shrine located in the city of Shiojiri, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a peaceful stroll around its complex, admire the well-maintained gardens, and take part in traditional Shinto practices and ceremonies.
Don’t miss: The annual Hiraoka Shrine festival that takes place on the first weekend of September, featuring traditional dance performances, food stalls, and a lively atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera to capture the shrine’s scenic beauty. Be respectful of the shrines’ rules and customs when participating in its ceremonies or visiting its grounds.
2. Shiojiri Station
Shiojiri Station is a train station located in the city of Shiojiri, in Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: – Admire the unique architecture of the station building, which resembles a traditional Japanese house with a thatched roof and wooden beams.
Don’t miss: – The charming local shops and restaurants near the station, where you can try regional specialties and pick up souvenirs.
Insider travel tips: – Shiojiri Station is a convenient starting point for exploring the Kiso Valley, particularly the popular hiking trail between the post towns of Magome and Tsumago.
3. Shiojiri Autumn Festival
Shiojiri Autumn Festival is a traditional Japanese festival celebrating the harvest season.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the traditional music and dance performances, food stalls offering local delicacies, and a parade of beautifully decorated floats.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the festival is the impressive floats adorned with intricate wood carvings, colorful tapestries, and lanterns.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot for viewing the parade and try the local specialty dish of soba noodles with mushrooms.
Don’t forget to bring cash as most vendors do not accept credit cards.
4. Takabotchi Highlands
A picturesque highland region located in Shiojiri, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy scenic hiking trails, beautiful forests and waterfalls, and stunning panoramic views. The area is also known for its specialty apples and wineries.
Don’t miss: The Takabotchi Highlands Observatory, which provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape from a height of 1,456 meters.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit in the fall to see the incredible autumn foliage, and consider staying in one of the area’s cozy mountain lodges for a truly immersive experience.
Additionally, be sure to try some of the local apple-inspired cuisine.
5. Shiojiri Niijima Glass Art Center
A glass art museum located in Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can observe the glass artists at work in the studio, view exhibitions of glass art, and participate in hands-on workshops to create their own glass art.
Don’t miss: The stunning collection of intricate glass art pieces on display, including delicate vases, colorful sculptures, and striking installations.
Insider travel tips: – Check the website for information on upcoming exhibitions and workshops before visiting.
6. Daio Wasabi Farm
Daio Wasabi Farm is a picturesque farm in Shiojiri, Japan, known for its massive Japanese horseradish fields.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant green fields and admire the crystal-clear water flowing from the nearby river.
The farm also features a wasabi museum, where visitors can learn about the history and cultivation of wasabi, as well as enjoy wasabi-themed snacks and beverages.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to try freshly grated wasabi, which has a delicate, yet potent flavor that is unlike anything you have ever tasted.
Also, make sure to check out the charming watermills that power the irrigation system on the farm.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to visit Daio Wasabi Farm in late spring or early summer when the wasabi fields are at their most vibrant.
Take comfortable shoes as fields can be a bit muddy. Try the homemade wasabi ice cream and wasabi beer sold at the farm for a unique culinary experience.
7. Shiojiri City Historical Museum
The Shiojiri City Historical Museum is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the vast collection of cultural artefacts and artworks from the local community and beyond.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the beautifully crafted wooden sculptures on display that showcase the city’s rich history and culture.
Insider travel tips: Check out the museum’s website for current exhibits and events before you visit.
8. Suwa-Taisha Shrine
Suwa-Taisha Shrine is a complex of four shrines located in the city of Shiojiri in Nagano prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various shrine buildings, including the main shrine building which is designated as a National Treasure of Japan.
Additionally, there is a beautiful pond with a torii gate and a small shrine on an island in the center.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the annual Onbashira festival which takes place every six years and involves the transportation of large wooden tree trunks to be used in the shrine buildings.
This festival is considered to be one of the most dangerous in Japan.
Insider travel tips: – Suwa-Taisha is a popular pilgrimage site, so it’s recommended to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
9. Tateshina Teddy Bear Museum
Museum dedicated to the art of teddy bears.
What to see or do: Explore the collection of over 12,000 teddy bears from around the world, including antique and rare specimens. Admire the artistry and craftsmanship of the bears and learn about their history.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to make your own teddy bear in the workshop.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the week to avoid crowds and consider purchasing a souvenir teddy bear at the gift shop. If traveling with children, they will love the interactive exhibits and activities.
10. Kirigamine Plateau
A scenic highland located in the city of Shiojiri, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains, hike on nature trails, go skiing or snowboarding during winter, and camp in designated areas during summer.
Don’t miss: The Kirigamine Kogen Art Museum, which features exhibitions of the works of various artists including Western painters, sculptors, and craftsmen.
Insider travel tips: Visitors are advised to dress in layers as the temperature can drop significantly, especially during winter. It is also recommended to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and witness the stunning sunrise.
11. Shiojiri Nature Village
A scenic nature park and outdoor recreation area in Shiojiri City, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a relaxing hike through lush forests and along streams, enjoy a picnic or barbecue in designated areas, go fishing in the pond, or play sports on the open fields.
The park also has a petting zoo and playground for kids.
Don’t miss: The majestic view of the Japanese Alps in the distance, especially during cherry blossom season in April or autumn foliage season in October.
Insider travel tips: Bring mosquito repellent in summer, as the park can attract bugs. The park is busiest on weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly.
The nearby Shiojiri Station makes it easy to get to and from the park by train.
12. Senjojiki Cirque
Senjojiki Cirque is a stunning glacial cirque located in the Nagano prefecture of Japan.
What to see or do: Senjojiki Cirque offers visitors breathtaking views of jagged peaks, crystal-clear streams and subalpine plants. Visitors can trek through the beautiful natural landscapes of the Yatsugatake Mountains and admire the flora and fauna.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains including the iconic Mt. Fuji.
The observation deck situated at an altitude of 2,612 meters is also a sight not to be missed.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to visit Senjojiki Cirque between the months of April through November when the weather is pleasant.
13. Matsumoto Castle
Matsumoto Castle is a historic fortress located in the city of Matsumoto, Japan. Built during the 16th century, it is one of the most well-preserved and iconic castles in the country.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s many levels and towers, including the main keep which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The castle is also home to an impressive collection of samurai armor and weaponry.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the “moon viewing room” which features unique architecture designed to resemble the shape of a crescent moon.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit during the slower months to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience.
14. Utsukushigahara Highlands
Utsukushigahara Highlands is a scenic plateau located in the city of Shiojiri, Japan. It sits at an elevation of 2,000 meters and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
What to see or do: Enjoy a leisurely hike through the lush greenery and pristine natural beauty. Take in the stunning panoramic views of the majestic Alps.
Plenty of photo opportunities await you at various lookouts and observation decks. Additionally, the plateau is home to several art museums and cultural attractions that are worth exploring.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to try some delicious local cuisine at one of the many restaurants that dot the plateau. Feast on mouth-watering soba noodles, grilled fish, and fresh vegetables, all sourced locally from the nearby farms.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting during the fall season when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange. Also, be sure to pack warm clothing as temperatures can drop quickly at such high altitudes.
Finally, don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and memories that Utsukushigahara Highlands will offer you.
15. Chino Cultural Complex
Chino Cultural Complex is a modern art museum located in Shiojiri, Nagano Prefecture in Japan.
What to see or do: The complex houses a variety of art collections, including modern and contemporary paintings, sculptures, and photographs. Visitors can also enjoy a beautiful garden that surrounds the museum complex.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the museum’s impressive collection of works by world-renowned artists, such as Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, and Roy Lichtenstein.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is busiest on weekends and holidays, so consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds.