Shimosuwa: Museums, Exhibitions & Discounts

Shimosuwa is a town located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Situated along the ancient Nakasendō trade route, one of Japan's five centrally administered roads during the Edo period, the town has preserved many aspects of its traditional character.

Shimosuwa is particularly famous for its Suwa Taisha shrine complex, one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, which consists of two parts: the Upper Shrine (Kamisha) and the Lower Shrine (Shimosha). The town is also known for its hot springs (onsen) and the traditional Onbashira Festival, held every six years, where massive logs are transported down mountains and erected at the corners of the shrine in a spectacular display of local tradition. The area has developed as a cultural center while maintaining its connection to both its spiritual heritage and natural surroundings.