Suwa Lake cruise launches for New Year, board the "Hatsuhinode-go" to welcome 2010

Located at the foothills of the Japanese Alps, Nagano Prefecture boasts beautiful natural scenery that offers a different charm in every season. In the first day of 2010, the famous hot spring area around "Suwa Lake" launched a special event featuring the Suwa Lake cruise ship "Hatsuhinode-go," allowing passengers to enjoy a scenic cruise while admiring the elegant beauty of the sunrise reflecting on the lake surface.

The vast expanse of Suwa Lake blends history, faith, nature, and art, creating a classical and refined atmosphere. One of the most unique sights by the lake is a geyser that shoots boiling water 50 meters high from underground, erupting once every hour, hence known as the "Intermittent Spring." Next to it lies an open-air footbath along a long water channel, known as the "Lakeside Park Footbath," where visitors can sit and soak their feet in the hot spring to relieve fatigue while enjoying the views of Suwa Lake.

The Suwa Lake cruise ship "Hatsuhinode-go" carries passengers to admire the New Year’s sunrise. The gradually rising sun from the edge of Mount Yatsugatake radiates a mystical aura, evoking the fresh start of a new year. The ship also offers locally brewed "Suwa sake" and hot tea. After enjoying the sunrise, passengers are then taken to Suwa Taisha Shrine for New Year’s prayers, wishing for smooth sailing and a wonderful beginning to the year 2010.

The "Hatsuhinode-go" New Year cruise departs at 06:50 on January 1st, boarding at the Royal Pier in front of "Futayuki no Yado Shiro," located by Suwa Lake. The passenger limit is 380 people, with no advance reservations accepted, but groups of 20 or more must contact in advance. Ticket prices are: ¥1,200 for junior high school students and above, ¥1,000 for elementary school students, and free for preschoolers. Ticket sales begin at 06:30 on the day, and for more details, visit the Suwa City Tourism Association website.

2010 Suwa Lake Cruise New Year Voyage
Departure Time: 06:50 on January 1st
Ticket Sales Time: 06:30 on January 1st
Inquiry Phone: Suwa City Boat Rental Union 0266-52-0739 (Japanese only)
Notes: Service may be suspended on the day 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 Kami-Suwa Station or Shimo-Suwa Station, then walk 8 minutes to reach Suwa Lake.

Further Reading: Hokkaido's Lake Toya National Park (provided by Tripass Attractions)