Nestled at the foothills of the Japanese Alps, Nagano Prefecture offers stunning natural scenery that takes on a unique ambiance in every season. On the first day of 2010, the renowned hot spring district around “Suwa Lake” in the central part of the prefecture introduced a special event featuring the Suwa Lake cruise ship “Hatsuhinode,” allowing passengers to enjoy a serene and elegant view of the sunrise reflecting on the lake’s surface as they cruise.
Vast and picturesque, Suwa Lake blends history, faith, nature, and art, exuding a classical and refined atmosphere. One of the lake’s most unique features is a geyser that shoots 50-meter-high jets of hot water from underground, erupting once every hour and thus nicknamed the “Intermittent Spring.” Nearby, a long open-air channel serves as the “Lakefront Park Foot Onsen,” where visitors can sit and soak their feet in the therapeutic waters while taking in the views of Suwa Lake.
The Suwa Lake cruise ship “Hatsuhinode” carries passengers to witness the New Year’s sunrise. The gradually rising sun from the edge of the Yatsugatake mountain range radiates a mystical glow, evoking the fresh start of a new year. The ship also serves locally brewed “Suwa sake” and hot tea. After enjoying the sunrise, passengers are taken to Suwa Taisha (Suwa Grand Shrine) to offer New Year’s greetings and pray for good fortune and a wonderful start to 2010.
The “Hatsuhinode” New Year cruise departs at 06:50 AM on January 1st. Boarding is at the Royal Pier in front of “Futamisou Ryokan Shiro” on the shores of Suwa Lake. Passenger capacity is limited to 380 people, and advance reservations are not accepted, though groups of 20 or more must contact in advance. Ticket prices are: ¥1,200 for junior high school students and above, ¥600 for elementary school students, and free for children under elementary school age. Ticket sales begin at 06:30 AM on the day, and more details can be found on the Suwa City Tourism Association website.
2010 Suwa Lake Cruise Ship New Year Voyage
Departure Time: 06:50 AM on January 1
Ticket Sales Start: 06:30 AM on January 1
Inquiry Phone: Suwa City Boat Rental Union 0266-52-0739 (Japanese only)
Notes: Service may be suspended due to strong winds, heavy fog, or ice on the lake, depending on conditions.
Transportation Info: From Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, take the JR Chuo Line directly to either Kamisuwa Station or Shimosuwa Station, then walk 8 minutes to reach Suwa Lake.
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