Shiojiri: The Natural Charms of the Old Wine Town
Shiojiri, Japan, nestled at the south end of the Matsumoto Basin, is a city in the Nagano prefecture pronounced for its Shinshu wine. Although in its well-established history, it was more known for its salt production industry. The whole city is listed under Japan’s Nation’s Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Historic Buildings. Undoubtedly, Shiojiri is the place you go to when you want to know more about the country’s history and at the same time, admire the country’s beauty.
Best Time to Visit
Humid summers and freezing winters are dominant in Shiojiri. While summer may be the best season to visit the city, it also happens to be the rainiest season. For that reason, it is more comfortable and enjoyable to visit the city on April and May or September and October, as these are the months with relatively less visitors, lower Shiojiri hotel rates, and fewer rainy days. The Shiojiri Wine Festival is celebrated April annually. Many tourists also come to the city to enjoy skiing or other snow-related activities.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Lake Suwa is a breathtaking body of water in Shiojiri. It is where you can enjoy a view of both the lake and the mountain nearby while sipping on the local wine. Witness the hundreds of flowers bloom over at the Shinshu Sky Park Large Lawn Open Space. Meanwhile, if you happen to visit during winter, the top ski resorts are Kurumayamakogen Ski Area and Fujimi Panorama Ski Resort. After a tiring day in Shiojiri, the modern and 3-star Hotel Route-Inn Shiojiri remains to be one of the most recommended hotels in the city. There is also the Okaya Central Hotel which close to the Shinshu Agricultural Park Tirolean Forest.