Reader’s Question: I urgently need to travel from Kamisuwa Station to Bunkui Pass via Chino by train and bus on September 12. After that, I would like to stay somewhere before heading back to Tokyo. Where do you think would
be the best place to stay? I want to stay somewhere with hot springs, so I’m considering Shimosuwa, but do you think it would be okay to go as far as Yamanashi? I might not make it in time for dinner due to check-in times, so I may end up staying without meals. What do you think? I’m really confused about a lot of things.
Traveling from Kamisuwa Station to Bunkui Pass: A Journey to Remember
Hey there, fellow travelers! So, I recently found myself knee-deep in travel plans, trying to figure out the best way to get from Kamisuwa Station to Bunkui Pass via Chino. Honestly, it felt a bit like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube while riding a roller coaster—exciting, but a bit overwhelming!
First off, let’s talk about the journey itself. Kamisuwa Station is in the beautiful Suwa region of Nagano Prefecture. The first leg of the trip involves catching a train to Chino, which is pretty straightforward. The trains in this part of Japan are super punctual, so just be mindful of the schedule. I remember standing at Kamisuwa Station, glancing at the departure board, and thinking about how every minute counts. There’s a certain charm in the air at train stations in Japan; you can feel the anticipation of a thousand journeys waiting to unfold.
After arriving in Chino, you’ll need to hop on a bus to reach Bunkui Pass. Now, here’s a little insider tip: make sure you check the bus times beforehand. They can be a bit sparse, especially in less urban areas. I once lost track of time during a delicious yakitori break and had to sprint to catch a bus, heart pounding and all. But the views from Bunkui Pass? Totally worth it. You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive Japanese macaques.
Why Shimosuwa for the Night?
Now, onto the accommodation dilemma! You mentioned considering Shimosuwa, which is a smart choice. Shimosuwa has some fantastic ryokans—those traditional Japanese inns that come complete with tatami mats and futons. And, oh, the onsen (hot springs) there! After a long day of traveling, soaking in a hot spring while gazing at the surrounding mountains feels like a slice of heaven. I once stayed at a ryokan near Shimosuwa, and it was one of the highlights of my entire trip. Imagine sipping on some green tea while wrapped in a yukata post-soak. Pure bliss.
But then you threw Yamanashi into the mix, and I get it! The thought of venturing further and possibly hitting up places like Kofu or even heading over to the Fuji Five Lakes area is tempting, right? I totally get that wanderlust! But here’s the thing: depending on how late your bus gets you to Bunkui Pass and the travel time back, you might be cutting it close. Yamanashi is stunning, but if you miss dinner at your accommodation, it could mean a long night of hungry regrets.
Timing and Meals: A Key Ingredient
Speaking of meals, let’s chat about that for a second. Japanese ryokans usually serve kaiseki (a multi-course dinner) made with fresh, local ingredients. It’s an experience you don’t want to miss! I remember arriving late at a ryokan once, and they kindly prepared a little something for me, but trust me, it was nowhere near the full feast I had been dreaming about. So, it’s crucial to communicate with your accommodation about check-in times and meal availability. They’re often super accommodating, but it’s always good to ask!
If you’re worried about missing out on dinner, maybe look for a ryokan that offers flexible dining options or check out local eateries around Shimosuwa or Chino beforehand. The locals are usually more than happy to point you in the direction of some scrumptious spots for dinner. I stumbled upon a little ramen shop in Chino once—totally unplanned—and it ended up being one of the best bowls of ramen I’ve ever had!
Other Accommodations to Consider
Aside from Shimosuwa, you might also want to consider some places near Lake Suwa. There are several resorts and guesthouses that offer hot spring baths and stunning views of the lake. Plus, in the evening, the sunset over the water is absolutely magical. Seriously, pack your camera because you won’t want to miss that photo op!
And if you’re feeling adventurous, I’d suggest looking into staying at an onsen resort in the Hakone area, which isn’t too far from Tokyo. I had a phenomenal stay there once, and the combination of hot springs, exquisite views of Mount Fuji, and fresh seafood dinner was one for the books! Just keep an eye on the travel times back to Tokyo since you don’t want to be rushing around like I did on my last trip there. Lesson learned!
A Perfect End to Your Trip
As you plan your return to Tokyo, think about what you want to get out of those final moments. Do you want to relax and unwind after the hustle and bustle of your travels? Or maybe you want to grab some last-minute souvenirs? If it’s the latter, consider staying in Shinjuku or Shibuya when you get back. There’s always something buzzing in those neighborhoods, plus tons of shopping and dining options.
As for me, whenever I wrap up a trip, I like to reflect on everything I experienced. Each place has its own vibe, its own memories waiting to be made. It helps to jot down a few thoughts or even sketch a little something that encapsulates what that place meant to me. It’s a fun way to keep the essence of the trip alive!
Final Thoughts
So, to wrap this all up and hopefully clear that confusion, I’d lean towards staying in Shimosuwa. It has the charm, the hot springs, and it’s conveniently located for your travels. Just make sure to double-check those bus and train schedules, and communicate with your accommodations about meal times.
Above all, take a moment to soak it all in—pun intended! Japan has a way of weaving unforgettable experiences into the fabric of your travels. Safe travels, and may your journey be filled with adventure, relaxation, and delightful surprises!
Until next time, happy wandering!
