Suwa Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest and most revered sacred sites, is composed of four shrines — two Upper (Kamisha) and two Lower (Shimosha) — scattered around Lake Suwa in Nagano. Revering the kami Takeminakata and Yasakatome, it serves as the head shrine for over 10,000 Suwa shrines nationwide. Renowned for its legendary Onbashira Festival, held every six years in the Zodiac years of the Tiger and Monkey, the shrine blends ancient nature worship, storied architecture, and mythic traditions that continue to captivate visitors.

Okaya Silk Museum (“Silk Fact Okaya”) in Nagano is Japan’s only silk museum with its own functioning mill, where you can witness actual silk-reeling machinery from the Meiji era to today. Opened in 1964 and reborn in 2014 at a former sericulture station, it houses over 30,000 artifacts—machines, documents, textiles—many designated as industrial heritage, offering a tactile journey into Okaya’s pivotal role in Japan’s silk-making legacy.

Tsurumine Park in Okaya, Nagano, is famed as the largest azalea park in central Japan, boasting over 30,000 azalea bushes in more than 30 varieties. Originating from a shipment mix-up in the 1930s, the vibrant hillside now draws visitors each May for its brilliant reds, pinks, purples, and whites during the lively Azalea Festival.

A short drive from Villa Azalea, Yamabiko Park is a hillside retreat with stunning views of Lake Suwa and the Yatsugatake mountains. Families will find plenty to enjoy, from the jumbo slide and mini-train to cycling, tennis, and disc golf. Wide lawns and an observation plaza at the top of the park are perfect for picnics or simply soaking in the scenery. A gentle 1.5 km loop trail makes it easy for all ages to explore, and there’s a restaurant and barbecue area for relaxed dining. It’s an ideal spot to combine outdoor fun with beautiful mountain views during your stay.

Suwakko Land, near Lake Suwa, features a rare 50 m outdoor pool—certified for competition and open from mid-June to early September. Heated using residual warmth from a nearby facility, it remains pleasant even on cooler days, with lanes for both lap swimming and casual play. The complex also offers an indoor 25 m pool, a lazy river, a children’s pool, and a hot pool, catering to swimmers, families, and leisure visitors alike. Supporting amenities such as warming rooms, showers, and powder rooms make it a comfortable and convenient summer destination.

Cellar Records in Okaya, Nagano, is a haven for vinyl lovers set inside a beautifully preserved Meiji-era cocoon warehouse—one of the few remaining in the city. This historic kura, with its white-plaster walls and exposed beams, has been reborn as a record shop offering a carefully curated mix of new and secondhand vinyl, cassettes, and CDs. From soul and rare groove to experimental and ambient, Cellar Records blends heritage and music culture in a uniquely atmospheric setting.

The Suwa region around Okaya is celebrated for its pristine sake culture, thanks to spring-fed water from the Kirigamine Plateau, crisp alpine air, and a cool climate — creating near-perfect brewing conditions. Here, skilled Suwa Tōji master brewers uphold centuries of tradition across the five historic Suwa gokura breweries — Maihime, Reijin, Honkin, Yokobue, and Masumi — all within a short stroll along the old Kōshū Kaidō. Visitors can sample their distinct brews via the “Gokuraku Set” tour—savoring flavors that reflect both heritage and terroir in every glass.

In Okaya, Nagano, unagi (freshwater eel) is more than just a dish—it’s a local institution. Thanks to Lake Suwa’s rich eel habitat, many eateries serve the region’s signature style: belly-cut and charcoal-grilled without steaming. This method yields crispy skin and tender, fluffy eel, perfectly glazed with a sweet tare sauce that highlights elemental flavors rooted deeply in local tradition.

Transform your stay into a Gourmet BBQ Under the Sky experience. Through I’S BaseCamp BBQ — a premier mobile catering service — you can enjoy chef-prepared, course-style BBQ right where you choose. From sizzling chargrilled meats and seasonal vegetables to live cooking flair and hassle-free setup and cleanup, it’s the perfect way to elevate a private gathering or family dinner amidst the villa’s tranquil surroundings. One Group Per Day ensures personalized service.

From hearty soba and savory unagi to cozy cafés and creative treats, the Suwa/Okaya area delights food lovers of every taste. Whether you're in the mood for traditional fare at family-run soba shops using locally grown buckwheat, a casual café tucked away near the station, or a vibrant izakaya with regional specialties, this curated list offers simplicity, variety, and authenticity. Many spots are perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to savor Suwa’s culinary character just minutes from Villa Azalea.

Nagano’s renowned powder is never far from Villa Azalea, with over ten ski resorts reachable within an hour’s drive—several just 30 minutes away. From gentle beginner runs to wide intermediate slopes, these resorts offer a mix of relaxed family-friendly courses and sweeping alpine views. While snow conditions can vary year to year, a winter’s day on the slopes pairs perfectly with a warm return to the villa’s hinoki baths.

Beyond our highlight picks, the Suwa and Okaya area brims with even more adventures for all ages. At Lake Suwa, enjoy paddle-boat rides, kayaking, cycling, or watching the summer fireworks over the water. For cultural discovery, visit the Nidec Music Box Museum “Suwa no NE” to craft your own music box, or explore the Sunritz Hattori Museum of Art with works by Renoir and Chagall. Outdoor lovers will find nature paths at Yashimagahara Marsh, while history buffs can explore Idojiri and Togariishi Jomon archaeological sites. With so many easy excursions nearby, it’s simple to blend heritage, nature, and creative play into your stay.