The Sakae shopping district is a top choice for accommodations when visiting Nagoya. Transportation is convenient, and the area from Hisaya-odori Station through Sakae Station to Yabacho Station is lined with department stores, shopping centers, restaurants, and more. Sakae Station is the liveliest part of the area, and you can walk around and browse at night. The Ferris wheel is quite beautiful at night, but the area near Don Quijote attracts a more mixed crowd after 11:00 p.m., so be mindful of your personal safety and belongings. South of Sakae is where many department stores are concentrated. If it's your first visit, you can stay at a hotel south of Sakae. Prices are a little higher, but you won't have to worry about finding places to eat or shop.
SUNSHINE SAKAE | Review by hdwf2002
Other Reviews by hdwf2002
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Harunire Terrace
This is a “small town” with nine buildings connected with wide wooden decks, utilizing a grove of more than 100 Japanese elm trees alongside the clear stream.
Harunire Terrace in Naka-Karuizawa is built along a stream, with wooden buildings, boardwalks, and forest cabins. The outdoor decks have free tables and chairs, while the small shopping area sells various goods and food. It’s a great place to visit in the afternoon and is very chill. I highly recommend the rich and delicious ice cream from Nagai Farm. A day trip by bicycle is also a great option—ride over from Karuizawa Station and enjoy a different way of exploring.
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Ishiyamadera Temple
This is the head temple of the Shingon school on the bank of the Seta River, which flows from Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan. There are strange rocks erected all over the precincts, including the large rock towering in front of the Hondo (main shrine).
When traveling around Lake Biwa by JR, you'll pass JR Ishiyamadera Station, so consider visiting Ishiyamadera Temple. It's a 10-minute drive from the station. This is a famous fall foliage spot in the Kansai region and where The Tale of Genji was first written. Coming here feels like stepping into another world. Surrounded by tranquility and maple trees, it's very relaxing to stroll through the temple grounds. If you visit in mid-November, the red maple leaves and fallen foliage offer another kind of peaceful experience. You don't have to worry about crowds, and it's a good place to relax your body, mind, and spirit.
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St. Paul's Catholic Church in Karuizawa
Nestled along “Waterwheel Lane,” just a short step off the main Old Karuizawa Ginza Street, this is the only Catholic church in Karuizawa.
Old Karuizawa Ginza Street has a retro feel. Besides visiting this old street, travelers can walk a little farther to St. Paul's Catholic Church. I understand it was built in 1935 and combines European architecture with stonework design. If you're lucky, you can go inside. The interior is entirely solid wood, and you can really feel its historic character. It's truly worth the walk to visit.
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