Nagano Things to Do Tips by kiwigal_1 Top 5 Page for this destination

LAKE SUWA FIREWORKS

Every year more than 10,000 fireworks are let off over Lake Suwa in Nagano Prefecture. I heard that it was THE fireworks event of the summer and that I should go at least once! Well, I went and I assure you that although it is a beautiful display I won't be racing back in a hurry. The main problem was the HUGE crowd of people!! I took the train down to KamiSuwa from Nagano City. Extra trains had to be put on for the event. The expressways near Suwa were blocked for miles by people slowing down to watch too!!

* note * you will have to arrive hours before hand to find a spot to sit or you can pay 4000 Yen a pop for a spot on the lake edge.

Directions: On the edge of Lake Suwa. Take a train to Kami Suwa Station and follow the hoardes of people!

Other Contact: In August sometime.

ZENKOJI TEMPLE Zenkoji Temple Review

Dating from 1707, Zenkoji is a designated National Treasure. Zenkoji is an important pilgrims destination and remains an authentic centre of worship in Japan.

This picture is of Zenkoji and Nagano City from the hill I live on (Ojoji Daira).
There is a pitch black tunnel underneath the Main Hall where you can walk around. It is said that this is the temples' 'place for enlightenment' and that all people here are equal. There is a key to Paradise that you can feel for whilst in the tunnel. The idea is that you should free yourself of worldly thoughts and engage in self-reflection.

Address: Motoyoshi Cho 491, Nagano City

Directions: You can catch a 100yen bus from Nagano Station or it is a pleasant walk through the shopping area on Chuo Dori up a small hill to the entrance.

Other Contact: Fax. 026-235-2151

Phone: 026-234-3591

M-WAVE

M-Wave is a very interesting building that is shaped like a wave. From where I live on a hill it is very easy to spot! M-Wave was built for the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics as a speed skating arena. It was also used more recently as the venue for the 2002 World Ice Skating Championships.

Address: Route 18 to Suzaka.