Tracing Itomori: A Weekend in Suwa, the Real-Life ‘Your Name’ Town
- Sarah
- Jun 30
- 3 min read
One night, while rewatching Kimi no Na Wa (Your Name), I became curious about the lake featured in the film. Although Itomori is not a real place in the movie, the small town of Suwa, located in Nagano Prefecture, is said to be the inspiration for this fictional town. I guess you can say that I also went on a journey like Taki to find this town.
If you're looking for a two-day trip away from the busy city life, here’s how I spent a weekend in Suwa with a mix of nature, food, cycling, and onsen time.
🛤 Transportation: How to Get to Suwa from Tokyo
I took the Azusa Limited Express from Shinjuku Station to Kami-Suwa Station. You can buy tickets at the JR ticket machines or at the counter.
Tip: Make a seat reservation in advance. I didn’t, and I ended up switching seats until one freed up.
Where I Stayed: Kamisuwa Onsen Hotel Saginoyu
📍 3-2-14 Kogandori, Suwa, Nagano 392-0027
¥82,000 / $520 for 1 night (Suite)
Booked via Rakuten Travel (not sponsored)
Highlights: Private open-air bath with a lake view, kaiseki-style dinner, breakfast, and access to the lounge.
This was a splurge, but it was one of the most relaxing hotel stays I’ve had in Japan.
Day 1: Lake Suwa by Bike + Onsen Hotel Life
Rent an E-Bike and Ride Around Lake Suwa
📍 1-9-1 Yunowaki, Suwa, Nagano
¥2,000 / day
Riding around the lake was the perfect way to take in the view without getting too tired. The path is flat and scenic—very beginner-friendly.
Lunch at LANIKAI Hawaiian Café
📍 6153-4 Kohancho Minami, Shimosuwa A cute lakeside café with a tropical twist. Nice stop if you're craving something light and casual.
Foot Bath Break (Ashi-no-Yu)
📍 10615-45 Shimosuwa Free public foot bath spot. A perfect pit stop after biking.
Clasuwa: Shopping & Snacks
📍 3-1-30 Kogandori, Suwa This local gift shop and café combo is great for picking up edible souvenirs or grabbing a small bite.
After dropping off the bike, I checked in, soaked in the private onsen, relaxed in the hotel lounge with tea and ended my evening with a wonderful kaiseki-style dinner
Day 2: A View from “Your Name” + Local Gems
Tateishi Park: The ‘Your Name’ Lake View
If you're a fan of the movie Your Name, you'll recognize this view. You can hike up or take a short taxi ride. I opted for the latter.
Coffee at AMBIRD
📍 2-2-2 Suwa A clean, cozy coffee shop near Suehiro.
ReBuilding Center Japan (Thrift Shop)
📍 3-8 Kowata, Suwa I scored vintage ceramics here. They also have furniture and home goods with great curation. Prices were very reasonable.
Lunch at Maboshokudo Don Don (Port Alley)
📍 2-2-28 Suwa There’s only one thing on the menu: Mapo Tofu, and it was one of the best I’ve had. Simple, spicy, and made with care.
Note: The shop is tiny—just a few seats—so expect a wait if it’s lunchtime.
After lunch, I made my way back to Kami-Suwa Station and took the train back to Tokyo.
Suwa is one of those places that feels like a hidden gem, especially for those looking to escape Tokyo without traveling far. Between the lake, the food, and the onsens, it was the perfect 2-day recharge.
