Discover the Heart of Nagano’s Natural Beauty
Venus Line Tateshina Lake is a scenic roadside station nestled along the iconic Venus Line, where alpine vistas meet the serene shores of Tateshina Lake at an elevation of 1,250 meters. Located in the heart of Chino City, this community-driven hub blends natural charm with cultural vitality, serving as a gateway to the region’s most beloved attractions. Designed through civic collaboration, the station offers travelers rest, refreshment, and seamless access to the surrounding wonders of the Tateshina Highlands.
Guests can enjoy panoramic views from the rest and observation deck, explore local flavors at the nostalgic Tateshina Ice soft-serve shop, or stroll along the lakeside walking trails. With its focus on regional agriculture, outdoor recreation, and cultural events, Venus Line Tateshina Lake is more than a stop—it’s a vibrant connection point where nature, history, and community come together.
Why Visit
Visit Venus Line Tateshina Lake roadside station to taste the only authentic Tateshina Ice in Japan—a nostalgic soft-serve inspired by the legendary ice cream beloved by literary figures in the 1950s. Perched on the shores of Tateshina Lake at 1,250 meters, the station offers panoramic views of the alpine lake and surrounding forest, with a direct trail to the dramatic 25-meter Tateshina Waterfall. It’s the only spot in the region where you can experience this historic treat while taking in the serene, high-altitude scenery unique to this corner of the Japanese Alps.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, locally inspired flavors at Venus Line Tateshina Lake roadside station.
Tateshina Ice
蓼科アイス
Specialty
Soft-serve ice cream inspired by the historic Tateshina Ice enjoyed by famous literary figures in the Shōwa era
A nostalgic soft-serve ice cream stall that pays tribute to the beloved Tateshina Ice from the Shōwa period, offering a sweet treat with a rich cultural background. The atmosphere is light and retro, perfect for visitors seeking a simple yet memorable dessert experience.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local goods and seasonal treasures at Venus Line Tateshina Lake roadside station.
Local Produce Market
地元農産物販売所
A market featuring fresh, locally grown agricultural products from the Tateshina area, including seasonal vegetables, fruits, and organic goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh mountain-grown strawberries
Outdoor & Cultural Goods Store
アウトドア・文化交流品販売所
A shop offering regional souvenirs, handmade crafts, and outdoor gear inspired by the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Tateshina.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handcrafted wooden souvenirs from Tateshina
Featured Products
Taste signature specialties and regional delights crafted from the heart of the mountains.
Tateshina Lake View Sake
蓼科湖景酒
A premium sake crafted using water from Tateshina Lake, known for its clean, crisp taste and subtle floral notes reflecting the mountainous region.
Mountain-Grown Wild Berries Jam
山野の実ジャム
A small-batch jam made from wild berries harvested in the Tateshina region, offering a natural, tangy flavor with no added sugar.
Tateshina Forest Herbal Tea
蓼科森のハーブティー
A blend of wild herbs collected from the forests surrounding Tateshina Lake, known for its calming properties and earthy aroma.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and explore with convenient amenities and scenic rest stops at Venus Line Tateshina Lake roadside station.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking area with 108 spaces.
Located at the roadside station premises
Toilets
The facility includes 14 toilet units for public use.
Located at the roadside station premises
Rest and View Room (Information Provision Facility)
A rest and viewing area that also serves as an information center for visitors, providing guidance on nearby attractions and local events.
Located at the roadside station premises
Park Plaza
An open park area suitable for relaxation and outdoor activities, ideal for families and visitors.
Located at the roadside station premises
Baby Corner
A dedicated baby care area equipped to support parents with infants.
Located at the roadside station premises
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities are available at the roadside station.
Located at the roadside station premises
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around local events and enjoy the best views with these insider insights.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure a parking spot near the rest area and avoid congestion during the peak morning hours when visitors arrive for the morning walk along the lake trail.
- Hidden Gems: Head to the deli counter near the rest area to find freshly baked milk bread made daily by the on-site bakery, which is available only during the morning hours and often sells out by 11:00 AM.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the soft-serve ice cream stand called "Rikko Ice" between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM to try the limited-edition seasonal flavor, which changes monthly and is only available until 2:00 PM.
- Best Viewing Spot: Use the rest and viewing room at the roadside station to access the official trail map for the Rikko Lake walking path, which highlights the best photo spots near the northern shore of the lake, including the viewpoint overlooking the pine grove at the edge of the water.
- Event Timing: Check the event board near the information desk for the schedule of the monthly "Rikko Film & Culture Day," hosted at the Nobuyuki Koizumi Memorial House (Mugeisou), which features film screenings and local artisan demonstrations from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on the second Saturday of each month.
- Avoid Parking Conflicts: Do not park in the main lot after 5:00 PM if you are not planning to stay overnight, as the roadside station enforces a strict policy against overnight parking to preserve space for day-trippers and tourists.
- Pro Tip for Hikers: Before heading out on the Rikko Lake trail, stop by the information desk to pick up a free map of the surrounding hiking routes, which includes the recommended path to Rikko Ootaki waterfall, marked with distance and difficulty ratings.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms peak at Shōkō-ji Temple in late April, coinciding with the start of the rhododendron bloom along the Venus Line.
Summer (June–August): Fresh mountain vegetables and seasonal soft serve from Tateshina Ice are available daily from June through August.
Autumn (September–November): The Tateshina Ice Festival runs in early September, featuring local produce and autumn foliage views.
Winter (December–February): Snow-covered views of Tateshina Lake and quiet access to the Venus Line make winter visits serene and scenic.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
The roadside station features a playground, baby corner, and spacious park area. It offers child-friendly soft-serve ice cream and stroller-accessible paths. Educational value comes from local history and nature exhibits.
Food Lover Review
The station hosts a themed soft-serve ice cream shop and promotes local produce. Fresh seasonal ingredients are available, and the focus on regional specialties enhances the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
It provides clean restrooms, vending machines, and ample parking. While not designed for overnight stays, it offers a quiet, scenic setting with good access for short stops.
Scenic Beauty Review
Overlooking Tateshina Lake with alpine views, the station offers stunning seasonal scenery. Scenic viewpoints and well-maintained walking paths enhance the visual appeal and photo opportunities.