Walking to Tateishi Park, a Real-Life ‘Your Name’ Anime Location in Suwa
If you’re a fan of Makoto Shinkai’s Your Name, you may already know that the lake in the movie was inspired by a real place: Lake Suwa (諏訪湖) in Nagano Prefecture. When I first learned this, I was immediately intrigued, and once I saw the view from Tateishi Park (立石公園), I understood why it inspired such a magical setting. This walk has become one of my favourite experiences in Suwa: a quiet, picturesque stroll uphill through residential streets, small rice paddies and narrow passageways, leading to a panoramic view that looks like it's straight out of anime.
In this post, I’ll take you along the walk with me, share photos from the route, and give you all the practical tips you need if you want to do it yourself.
Lake Suwa: A Must-Visit for ‘Your Name’ Fans
Lake Suwa (諏訪湖) is often noted as the real-world inspiration for Itomori Lake, the fictional lake featured in Your Name. While the anime doesn’t explicitly name Suwa, fans and film location hunters have long made the connection, and once you’re there, it’s easy to see why. The view from Tateishi Park is the most iconic, as it looks as if it has been taken straight out of Makoto Shinkai's film Your Name.
Walk With Me to ‘Your Name’ Stunning Lake View at Tateishi Park
I started my walk from Kami-Suwa Station (上諏訪駅), taking the small streets uphill past residential homes and quiet neighborhoods. The town quickly gives way to the countryside, with narrow paved roads winding between residential homes and akiyas (abandoned houses), vegetable gardens and small rice paddies. I barely saw anyone along the way.
To find my way, I simply used Google Maps, indicating Kami-Suwa station as the departure point and Tateishi Park as the arrival point. According to Google Maps, the walk takes 28 minutes and stretches for 1.5km through narrow streets with steps, cutting across the main road. Although the walk is a little steep, it's an easy one, well maintained with concrete steps and shaded by trees for much of the way. In total, it took me around 40 minutes to reach the park, taking time to photograph the peaceful countryside while enjoying beautiful views of the lake along the way.
The reward once you arrive at Tateishi Park? A wide, open viewing platform with benches and an absolutely stunning view over Lake Suwa. The best part is how quiet it is: there were only a few couples and families when I arrived, and I was able to just sit and take in the scenery for as long as I wanted. It’s an amazing place to bring a drink or a bento and take a break.
A Few Travel Tips Before Doing This Walk
How to Get to Suwa Lake from Tokyo
Getting to Suwa is straightforward from Tokyo. The most convenient option is the JR Limited Express Azusa, which departs from Shinjuku Station and takes you directly to Kami-Suwa Station (上諏訪駅) in about 2.5 hours (costs ¥5,980 one-way).
Best Time of Day to Visit
I went to Tateishi Park at midday and in the late afternoon, and although both offer magnificent views, I preferred the soft lights of the golden hour. Waiting for the sun to set with a picnic was absolutely magical.
View of Lake Suwa at midday
View of Lake Suwa at sunset
How to Get to Tateishi Park
On Foot: From Kami-Suwa Station, it takes about 30-40 minutes one way. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
By Car or Taxi: There is a small parking lot at the park entrance, so if you're short on time or not into hiking, this is a great option, and you can find a taxi stand just outside Kami-Suwa station.
What to Bring
Water, especially in summer. There are a couple of vending machines at Tateishi Park, but you’ll need to get snacks beforehand.
Other Things to Do and See Around Suwa Lake
Suwa is an underexplored, yet a place packed with things to see and do, from walking around the lake or going on a boat cruise on the lake, to explore Takashima Castle or the Suwa Taisha Shrines, and more. If you’d like to know more about Suwa, check out my full Suwa Travel Guide for more things to do, travel tips, and what to eat in the area.
Where to Stay In Suwa
The two times I visited Suwa, I’ve stayed at Kamisuwa Onsen Hamanoyu (浜の湯), a large ryokan with hot spring facilities in Kamisuwa onsen, simply because I had a wonderful experience there. The interior is magnificent, and the staff embody the best of omotenashi, Japanese hospitality. The hotel has a large indoor and ouAgodatdoor onsen area with several baths and sauna, perfect for relaxing after a day of walking or hiking. The room I stayed in was a large, comfortable Japanese-style room with a great view of Lake Suwa.
To Conclude
Tateishi Park might not be on every traveler’s radar, but for fans of Your Name or anyone looking for a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path destination in Japan, it’s a real hidden gem. The walk there is just as special as the view, offering a glimpse into the slower, more serene side of Japanese countryside life. If you’re spending time in Nagano prefecture, don’t miss the chance to see this iconic and majestic view of Suwa Lake with your own eyes.
Interested in discovering more fantastic walks and hikes in Japan? You can read about the walks and hikes I’ve done in Japan and written about.
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