Surrounding Miyota

Karuizawa

Situated next to Miyota is the famous Japanese holiday resort town called Karuizawa. Located 70 minutes from Tokyo by bullet train, Karuizawa in Nagano Prefecture, is home to the holiday villas of many wealthy urbanites.

Located at the base of Mount Asama, Karuizawa is surrounded by beautiful nature, ideal for walks, bike riding and scenic drives. The natural highlight is the Shiraito Falls which is renowned for its crystal-clear waters. The local population is approximately 20,000 covering an area of 156sq km.

Kyu-Karuizawa

Kyu-Karuizawa is the large area surrounding Karuizawa bullet train station. Use the North Exit to explore an area called Karuizawa Ginza, the local version of Tokyo's Ginza. Stroll down the charming street with a romantic ambience lined with trendy restaurants, cafes, souvenir and craft shops.

On the opposite side of Karuizawa Station is the Prince Shopping Plaza, an outlet mall selling popular brands at discount prices. The town has a pleasant atmosphere with trendy restaurants and cafes.

Saku City

Located a short drive from Miyota and 75 minutes from Tokyo by bullet train, Saku City in Nagano Prefecture is a charming and vibrant University Town with a population close to 100,000 people. Saku is home to many modern comforts such as family restaurant chains, Aeon Shopping Mall, Starbucks Coffee and a wide variety of restaurants and shops. Residents of Sunshine Village will enjoy their outings to Saku.

Matsumoto

40 minutes by car from Miyota is Matsumoto, the 2nd largest city in Nagano Prefecture, home to a population of close to 250,00. It is most famous for Matsumotojo, one of Japan's oldest and most beautiful castles. From the top floor, commanding views of the Japanese Alps and City Centre can be seen. Matsumoto is also home to the Ukiyo-e Museum, Modern Art Musuem and the Matsumoto Performing Arts Centre.

Nagano City

One hour by drive from Miyota is Nagano City, the capital of Nagano Prefecture, and home to the magnificent Zenkoji Temple which has stood 1400 years.

In 1998, Nagano hosted the Winter Olympic Games, and some Olympic facilities can still be viewed around town. The cool climate of Nagano produces high quality rice, sake, apples, kyohou grapes, Shinshu beef and local wines.

Kamikochi

A short drive from Miyota is Kamikochi, a popular resort at the base of the Northern Japan Alps of Nagano Prefecture, offering some of Japan's most spectacular mountain scenery views.

Kamikochi is a 15 kilometer long plateau in the Azusa River Valley, part of the Chubu Sangaku National Park which is popular amongst bushwalkers with its magnificent hiking trails to explore.