Suwa Bicycle Path
Riding around Lake Suwa (諏訪湖) offers one of central Japan’s most scenic and accessible cycling experiences. The Lake Suwa bike path, known locally as the Suwa-ko Cycling Road, is a 16-kilometer loop that circles the entire lake in Nagano Prefecture. The route is mostly flat and paved, making it suitable for all skill levels — from casual riders to families with children.
Along the way, cyclists can enjoy views of the Japanese Alps, hot spring resorts, and the Suwa Taisha shrines, some of the oldest in Japan. Rest areas and cafés are scattered around the lake, and bike rentals are available near Kamisuwa Station, which is just a short walk from the water’s edge.
The path is especially beautiful in spring, when cherry blossoms line parts of the route, and in autumn, when the surrounding hills turn vibrant red and gold. The area is also famous for Lake Suwa’s natural geyser and the winter phenomenon known as the Omiwatari—ice ridges said in folklore to be the footsteps of a god crossing the frozen lake.
The Route
The Suwa Bike path is an entirely separated path around the lake
Things to do and see
Takashima Castle
高島城 (Takashima Castle), often called the “Floating Castle of Suwa,” is a historic fortress located near the shore of Lake Suwa in Nagano Prefecture. Originally built in 1592 by Hineno Takayoshi, the castle once stood surrounded by the lake’s waters, giving it the illusion of floating. Though much of the original structure was dismantled during the Meiji era, the main keep and surrounding gardens were later reconstructed and now serve as a small museum. Visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views of Lake Suwa, the Japanese Alps, and the city of Suwa, making it a charming stop on a cycling or sightseeing trip around the lake.
Suwa Shrine
Suwa Taisha (諏訪大社) is one of Japan’s oldest and most revered Shinto shrines, with origins dating back over 1,200 years. Dedicated to the god of wind, water, and hunting, it consists of four main shrines located around Lake Suwa — the Upper Shrines (Kamisha) in Suwa City and the Lower Shrines (Shimosha) in Shimosuwa.
Suwa Taisha is known for its unique Onbashira Festival, held every six years, during which massive sacred logs are cut from the mountains and ceremonially raised at each shrine — a dramatic event symbolizing renewal and divine strength. The shrines’ tranquil forests, ancient trees, and traditional architecture make them a deeply spiritual highlight for visitors exploring the Suwa region.
Nakasendo
The Nakasendo passes through Suwa so riding around the lake can be part of a longer trip along the Nakasendo
Getting there and away
Kami-suwa station is about 2 hours away from Shinjuku station using the Azusa Limited Express which runs approximately hourly all day and costs 5,980 yen
