The Chikuma River and the Saku Basin
The heart of Saku City lies along the Chikuma River, which flows through the Saku Basin before continuing northward toward the Sea of Japan. The city developed around several traditional urban centers, including Iwamurada, Nakagomi, Nozawa, and Usuda.
Surrounded by mountains, the basin enjoys distinct seasonal changes and expansive views on clear days. The high elevation and relatively clear air also create excellent conditions for viewing the night sky.
A Historic Crossroads on the Nakasendō
Saku has been an important crossroads since ancient times. During the Edo period, the Nakasendō, one of Japan’s major highways connecting Edo and Kyoto, crossed the region together with the Saku-Kōshū Highway.
Historic post towns such as Wada, Mochizuki, and Yawata preserve traces of the old highway network. Visitors can still find former honjin residences, traditional buildings, temples, and shrines that evoke the days when travelers and merchants passed through the region.
Iwamurada, Nakagomi, Nozawa, and Usuda
Iwamurada developed as a post town on the Nakasendō and retains historic temples, shrines, and long-established shops. In contrast to the modern commercial district around Saku-Nagano Station, the old town offers a glimpse into the area’s traditional character.
Nakagomi is home to historic sites such as the Former Nakagomi School, an important reminder of Japan’s modernization during the Meiji period.
Nozawa developed as one of the southern urban centers of Saku and is home to temples, shrines, and traditional local businesses.
Usuda is particularly associated with astronomy and space exploration. Facilities such as the Usuda Deep Space Center and the Usuda Star Dome have helped establish Saku as a destination for visitors interested in the night sky and space science.
Modern Saku and the Development of Saku-Daira
Today, Saku is one of the major urban centers of eastern Nagano. The opening of the Joshin-Etsu Expressway and the Hokuriku Shinkansen dramatically improved transportation connections, while the area around Saku-Daira Station developed into a major commercial and residential district.
In 2005, the former municipalities of Saku, Usuda, Asashina, and Mochizuki merged to form the present-day Saku City. The city now serves as an important transportation, commercial, medical, and cultural center for the Tōshin region.
A City Connected to Space Exploration
One of Saku’s most distinctive characteristics is its strong connection with space exploration and astronomy. The former Usuda area promoted itself as a “Town of Stars,” taking advantage of the region’s clear air and favorable conditions for astronomical observation.
The Usuda Deep Space Center is known for its large parabolic antenna used for communication with spacecraft. The newer Misasa Deep Space Exploration Ground Station has further strengthened Saku’s role in Japan’s space exploration infrastructure.
Saku is also a member of the Galaxy Federation, an association of municipalities that host facilities connected with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and other space-related institutions. The combination of local tourism and real-world space exploration gives the city a distinctive identity.
Stargazing at the Usuda Star Dome
The Usuda Star Dome is a public astronomical observatory where visitors can experience serious stargazing. Its 60-centimeter reflecting telescope allows visitors to observe the Moon, planets, nebulae, and other celestial objects.
Because Saku has relatively little light pollution and clear mountain air, the night sky can be remarkably beautiful. Even on cloudy days, astronomy programs and presentations can introduce visitors to the wonders of the universe.
The Farthest Point in Japan from the Sea
Saku is home to one of Japan’s most unusual geographical landmarks: the point farthest from the sea in Japan.
The location lies deep in the mountains of the former Usuda area and is considered the point in Japan with the greatest distance from any coastline. Surrounded by forests and mountains, it represents the strongly inland character of Saku.
Although it is a remote destination rather than a conventional sightseeing attraction, visiting the point offers a unique experience for travelers interested in geography, hiking, and unusual places in Japan.
Mount Arafune, a Dramatic Mountain Landscape
Mount Arafune rises to 1,423 meters and is one of Japan’s 200 Famous Mountains. Its most striking feature is its distinctive table-like summit, formed through long-term erosion, together with dramatic cliffs rising approximately 200 meters.
The unusual shape of the mountain makes it recognizable from a distance. Several hiking routes lead into the surrounding mountains, making the area popular with hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Uchiyama Pass and the Arafune Trailhead
Uchiyama Pass lies on the border between Saku City and Gunma Prefecture and is one of the main access points for climbing Mount Arafune.
The surrounding mountains are dotted with unusual rock formations, including Hime-iwa, Byōbu-iwa, and Napoleon Rock. The scenery changes dramatically with the seasons, while the pass is also known for beautiful evening views.
Uchiyama Gorge and Its Strange Rock Formations
Uchiyama Gorge is a scenic valley characterized by a series of unusual rock formations. Hime-iwa, Napoleon Rock, Byōbu-iwa, and Candle Rock create a dramatic landscape shaped by erosion over countless years.
In spring, flowering peach trees add color to the valley, while autumn brings foliage and blooming cosmos flowers. The warm light of sunset over the rocks and mountains is particularly beautiful.
Ōgawara Pass, Saku’s Highest Point
Ōgawara Pass stands at an elevation of 2,093 meters, making it the highest point in Saku City. It is also a trailhead for Mount Tateshina.
From the high mountain roads, visitors can enjoy sweeping views over the Saku Basin. At night, the high elevation and low levels of artificial light create excellent conditions for stargazing, while early morning offers spectacular views of the sunrise.
Saku Ski Garden PARADA
Saku Ski Garden PARADA is one of the most unusual ski resorts in Japan because it can be reached directly from the Saku-Daira Parking Area on the expressway without leaving the highway network.
From South PARADA, visitors can look toward Mount Yatsugatake and the Saku Basin, while North PARADA offers views toward Mount Asama. In winter, the resort is popular for skiing and snowboarding, while spring through autumn brings outdoor activities such as athletic courses.
Saku-Daira Highway Oasis “PARADA”
Saku-Daira Highway Oasis “PARADA” is a family-friendly leisure complex connected directly to the Saku-Daira Parking Area by a large escalator.
Facilities include a children’s play area, sightseeing lift, dog run, and insect learning center. It is a convenient stop for families traveling through Nagano and offers activities beyond the typical highway rest area.
The Historic Former Nakagomi School
Former Nakagomi School was built in 1875, during the early Meiji period, and is one of Japan’s oldest surviving Western-style school buildings.
Designated as both an Important Cultural Property and a National Historic Site, the building provides a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s rapid modernization and the introduction of Western architectural ideas. Its stained glass and distinctive octagonal drum tower are especially notable.
Tatsuoka Castle and Its Star-Shaped Fortress
Tatsuoka Castle is a late-Edo-period fortress and one of only two Western-style star forts in Japan, alongside Goryokaku in Hakodate.
Although much of the original castle has disappeared, sections of its star-shaped moats and earthen walls remain. The historic building known as the Kitchen is also preserved within the former castle grounds.
The site is designated as a National Historic Site. Looking down on the remains from the surrounding area helps visitors understand the unusual five-pointed design and the influence of Western military architecture on late-Edo Japan.
Mochizuki-juku on the Nakasendō
Mochizuki-juku was the 25th post station on the Nakasendō, one of the major highways of the Edo period. Travelers and merchants once passed through the town on their journeys between Edo and Kyoto.
Historic buildings and sites remain today, including the former Honjin area and the Mayama Residence. The Mochizuki History and Folklore Museum provides further insight into the history of the region.
Yawata-juku and Yawata Shrine
Yawata-juku was another historic post town along the Nakasendō. The area preserves traces of the highway’s history, including the former Honjin where Princess Kazunomiya is said to have stayed.
Nearby, Yawata Shrine contains the Kōra Shrine, an Important Cultural Property. Together, the post town and shrine offer an opportunity to explore the religious and transportation history of the region.
Pinkoro Jizō and the Tradition of Healthy Longevity
Pinkoro Jizō stands along the approach to Naritasan Yakushiji Temple and has become a beloved symbol of health and longevity.
The name expresses a wish to live a long and healthy life and to pass away peacefully without prolonged suffering. On the second Saturday of every month, the Sanmon Market is held near the temple, offering local agricultural products and other regional goods.
Traditional Carp Farming in Rice Fields
Saku has a long tradition of carp farming, including the distinctive practice of raising carp in rice paddies. Known as suiden yōri or rice-paddy carp farming, the method involves raising carp in flooded rice fields alongside the growing rice.
The carp are harvested around the same time as the rice in autumn. The sight of carp being taken from the fields has become part of Saku’s traditional rural landscape and food culture.
Discover Shinshu Soba in Saku
Thanks to its clean water and highland climate, Saku is also an excellent destination for experiencing Shinshu soba, one of Nagano’s best-known foods.
Saku no Kusabue is a popular soba restaurant using buckwheat flour grown by the restaurant itself. Its signature walnut soba is particularly popular, and guests can watch the soba-making process through glass.
At Ryan Hagiwara, visitors can try the restaurant’s distinctive Mizumoe Soba, as well as soba made with buckwheat from the Asama Highlands and Nagawa area. Traditional dishes such as nikoji soba and seasonal soba cuisine are also available.
Try Saku’s Local Specialty, Anyōji Ramen
Saku has its own distinctive ramen style known as Anyōji Ramen. It uses locally produced Anyōji miso, creating a rich and savory miso-based ramen.
Restaurants such as Menya Tenpō serve Anyōji Ramen alongside soy sauce and salt ramen, tsukemen dipping noodles, tantanmen, and seasonal dishes. It is an excellent way to experience Saku’s local food culture in a familiar Japanese dish.
Izumiya Shoten, a Historic Miso Maker
Izumiya Shoten was founded in 1853 and has a long history of producing miso in Saku. The brewery uses water from the Saku-Daira region together with carefully selected domestic ingredients.
In addition to traditional miso, visitors can find products such as miso-pickled foods, miso crackers, and freeze-dried miso. These products make distinctive souvenirs for travelers interested in Japanese food culture.
Sake Breweries and the Water of Saku
The clean underground water of Saku has supported a long tradition of Japanese sake brewing.
Osawa Brewery was founded in 1689 and is one of the region’s historic sake producers. Its Folk Museum displays traditional brewing tools, historical materials, and local cultural artifacts. Visitors can also enjoy sake tasting and purchase local products.
Takehige Hombu Sake Brewery uses groundwater associated with the Tateshina mountain area to produce sake such as Misonotake and Bokusui. Seasonal brewery tours and tasting opportunities are also held.
Chikuma Nishiki Brewery is another representative brewery of Saku. Using underground water from the Chikuma River and Mount Asama area, it produces sake including its signature Chikuma Nishiki. Brewery tours, tastings, and limited-edition products add another dimension to exploring Saku’s food culture.
Saku City Museum of Modern Art
Saku City Museum of Modern Art, the Yuichi Memorial Museum, is located inside Komaba Park. Its collection contains more than 3,000 works covering Japanese painting, oil painting, sculpture, crafts, and other forms of modern art.
Works by renowned Japanese artists, including Hirayama Ikuo, are featured in the collection. The museum can easily be combined with a relaxing walk through the surrounding park.
Kawamura Gozo Memorial Museum
Saku City Kawamura Gozo Memorial Museum introduces the work of sculptor Kawamura Gozo, who was born in Saku.
Kawamura worked both in Japan and overseas and created portraits of notable figures including Hideyo Noguchi. His sculptures provide a fascinating look at the international activities of a Japanese artist during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Hidai Tenrai and Japanese Calligraphy
The Saku City Tenrai Memorial Museum celebrates the achievements of calligrapher Hidai Tenrai, often described as the “father of modern Japanese calligraphy.”
The museum displays his calligraphic works as well as brushes, seals, and other personal materials. Works by artists influenced by Tenrai are also exhibited, making the museum a valuable place to learn about the development of modern Japanese calligraphy.
Shimazaki Tōson’s Former Residence
Shimazaki Tōson’s Former Residence is a reconstruction of the house where the famous Japanese writer lived while teaching at Komoro Juku.
During this period, Tōson became deeply familiar with the people and landscapes of Shinshu. He also began writing his famous novel The Broken Commandment. The restored earthen floor, hearth, and other features offer a glimpse into everyday life during the Meiji period.
Hot Springs Surrounded by Nature
Saku and its surrounding highlands offer numerous opportunities to enjoy hot springs surrounded by mountains and forests.
Fuse Onsen is a day-use hot spring facility with views toward Mount Asama. It features an outdoor bath, jacuzzi, dry sauna, and other bathing facilities. A nearby park provides opportunities for walking and recreational activities.
Kasuga Onsen is located in a natural setting near Mount Tateshina. At the Kasuga-no-Mori resort, visitors can enjoy free-flowing natural hot spring water along with accommodations, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and other resort facilities.
Local Food at Saku’s Roadside Stations
Michi-no-Eki Healthy Terrace Saku Minami is located near the Saku Minami Interchange and is an excellent place to discover local produce. Prunes and other agricultural products, processed foods, local sake, and regional specialties are sold here.
The facility also offers meals using local ingredients, a lunch buffet, rice-flour bread, and soba-making experiences. It is more than a rest stop—it is a convenient introduction to the food culture of Saku.
Michi-no-Eki Hot Park Asashina is another popular stop, known for local products including the famous Gorōbei Rice. The restaurant serves regional dishes using this distinctive local rice, while the surrounding countryside offers beautiful views toward Mount Asama.
Karuizawa Brewery
Karuizawa Brewery’s Karuizawa Factory produces THE Karuizawa Beer using water from the Mount Asama area.
Factory tours introduce visitors to the beer-making process and modern brewing equipment. Tasting freshly produced beer can also be part of the experience, offering another way to appreciate the importance of Saku’s clean mountain water.
Amagawa Dam and Its Emerald-Green Lake
Amagawa Dam is a sediment-control dam located in the mountains. Its distinctive emerald-green reservoir creates an almost mysterious landscape surrounded by forest.
Roads through the surrounding mountains also lead toward the area containing the point farthest from Japan’s coastline, making this a destination for travelers who want to explore the quieter and more remote side of Saku.
Arafune Lake and Uchiyama Ranch
Arafune Lake is located within the Uchiyama Ranch campground. A walking trail runs around the lakeside, allowing visitors to enjoy the surrounding natural landscape.
From July to August, the rare Asama flower, designated as a near-threatened species, blooms around the lake. Fishing facilities are also available, making the area suitable for combining camping with outdoor activities.
The Cosmos Road
Cosmos Road stretches for approximately nine kilometers along National Route 254 near Uchiyama Gorge. From early to late September, the roadside is covered with blooming cosmos flowers, creating one of Saku’s most attractive autumn landscapes.
A local cosmos festival is also held during the flowering season. The combination of mountain scenery and colorful flowers makes this route particularly enjoyable as a scenic drive in autumn.
Forest Therapy and Relaxation in Nature
Saku is recognized as a Forest Therapy Base, making it an excellent destination for forest bathing, walking, and nature-based relaxation.
The city’s mountains, forests, clear air, quiet valleys, and highland landscapes provide an environment where visitors can slow down and reconnect with nature. You do not need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the area’s natural beauty—many places are suitable for leisurely walks and peaceful sightseeing.
A Destination Where History, Nature, Space, and Food Meet
Saku City is a highland destination where the mountains of eastern Nagano meet a rich history of highways, post towns, temples, castles, and traditional culture.
From Mount Arafune, Uchiyama Gorge, and Mount Tateshina to the star-shaped ruins of Tatsuoka Castle and the historic Former Nakagomi School, the city offers an impressive variety of landscapes and cultural attractions.
At the same time, Saku’s identity as a city of space and astronomy sets it apart. Visitors can explore deep-space observation facilities, enjoy professional stargazing, and discover one of Japan’s most unusual geographical landmarks.
The local food culture is equally diverse, from Shinshu soba and Anyōji Ramen to carp, miso, sake, locally grown fruit, and traditional rice. Hot springs, breweries, museums, and roadside stations add even more ways to experience the region.
In spring, flowering trees and fresh greenery transform the mountains; summer brings cool highland air; autumn brings cosmos fields and colorful foliage; and winter offers snow-covered landscapes and skiing. Walking through historic towns, exploring the mountains, soaking in hot springs, tasting local food, and looking up at the stars at night—all of these experiences come together in Saku.
For travelers exploring eastern Nagano, Saku is a destination worth taking time to discover beyond its major tourist attractions. By exploring its old highways, rural landscapes, temples, breweries, museums, mountains, and local food, visitors can experience the many layers of history and culture that make this highland city unique.