It’s no secret that Japan is the ultimate destination for food lovers. The skill and care that goes into every aspect of Japanese cuisine, whether from the produce grown or from the tools used, is world-renowned. With these immersive experiences, you can discover the cultivation and craftsmanship that goes into creating beautiful and unbelievably delicious food - perfect for craft and food enthusiasts.
Stroll Through Nagano’s Bountiful Orchards Nestled in the Alps
Take in the alpine scenery as you sip on a fresh local cider.
The region of Nagano Prefecture is home to the Japan Alps, a mountainous range famous for its ski slopes come winter. However, snow-filled thrills and wintry scenes aren't all the region has to offer.
The mountain ranges are stunning throughout the year, and those seeking the perfect vantage point to take in their full majesty should head to Senjojiki Cirque. Travelers can take the Komagatake Ropeway, which carries you right to its doorstep, approximately 2,600 meters above sea level, all while allowing you to bask in the epic alpine scenery as you ascend.
Nagano Prefecture’s mountains are also home to orchards whose rich, fertile soil produces some of the best fruit in Japan. Towards the south of the prefecture lies the town of Matsukawa, characterized by its stunning alpine landscape and bucolic orchards. The town is nestled in the bosom of the Ina Valley, between two ranges of the Japan Alps, the perfect retreat to experience rural Japan away from the noise of the city.
Experience fine dining that highlights local flavors, like this delightful Peach-themed dessert.
Why not immerse yourself in local farming life by joining a two-day/one-night Orchard Gastronomic Adventure Tour? Gain a deeper understanding of farming practices and taste the fruits of the farmers' labor with gourmet food and wine tasting at local breweries.
You can then cap the day off with a unique educational alfresco dining experience in one of the orchards, where you’ll sit and eat under the boughs of the trees festooned in twinkling lights. After you’ve eaten and drank to your heart’s content, you can head to your accommodation to soak in the hotel’s hot spring before bed.
Experience The Spirit of Craftsmanship in Fukui
Design your very own knife in one of Japan’s historic crafting cities.
Photo: Tsutomu Ogino (TOMART: PhotoWorks)
Located in Fukui Prefecture, Echizen is a city that embodies the spirit of monozukuri. Monozukuri’s literal meaning translates to “making of things”, but it also conveys the spirit and skill of the craftsman when creating a product. The craftsmen of Echizen approach their work with passion, dedication, and skill, building on and perfecting hundreds of years of rich crafting history.
Echizen City is also blessed with clear water and rich forests, which are utilized in the production of traditional national crafts such as washi paper, lacquer-coated wooden chests, and traditionally hammered blades.
See up close and personal exactly how Japan’s famed knife blades are made.
Photo: Tsutomu Ogino (TOMART: PhotoWorks)
The origin of the latter is said to have come from Kyoto Prefecture, with a swordsmith traveling to Echizen and teaching the local craftsmen the art of “uchihamono*,” or knifemaking. Since then, the city has become famed for the quality of its knives which are an important facet of Japanese cooking.
*uchihamono is a method of striking metal to forge knives. The majority of knives smithed in Echizen are smithed by this uchihamano striking method.
Learn the art of lacquerware, one of Japan’s traditional national crafts, when designing your handle.
Photo: Tsutomu Ogino (TOMART: PhotoWorks)
For the culinary inclined, there can be no more fabulous a souvenir than a personalized Echizen knife. In Echizen, you can join a knife-making tour and work with skilled blacksmiths to create your own knife handle. A good grip is paramount when handling a sharp blade, and here, you will tour the workshop to learn more about the process. Not only do you get to see how the handle is crafted, but you’ll also see exactly how these famous blades are made.
While visiting, head to Kuranotsuji to see the historic white storehouses line the streets.
The experience then allows guests to choose from 30 different handle options, each differing in wood, pattern, color, and grain. You can also choose from two different blade options: stainless steel or iron. At the end of the tour, you’ll be presented with your very own knife, designed by yourself with the guiding hands of the workshop masters.
After finishing the experience, make sure to take a stroll around the picturesque area of Kuranotsuji to see the city’s old white-walled storehouses. These historic buildings have recently undergone renovation, turning them into bars, restaurants, and cafes, allowing you to sit and soak in the charm of your surroundings in comfort.
Japan’s rich culinary culture is one to be celebrated and admired. In Nagano, you can taste the fruits of the farmer’s labors, savoring fresh, local produce while learning more about Japanese cultivation practices. In Fukui, you’ll discover the skill and craftsmanship that goes into creating one of Japan’s legendary knives, uncovering techniques handed down from the fabled katana makers of old. Both these experiences will allow you to develop a more profound knowledge and appreciation for the culinary process while leaving you with lasting memories and perhaps a unique souvenir. Why not take in one of these extraordinary experiences when you visit?
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About the author
Author: Laura Pollacco
Profile: Laura is a freelance writer and photographer living in Tokyo, Japan. Having lived in Japan for over four years, Laura has spent much of her time traveling the country, diving into any opportunity to experience unique Japanese culture. She has been published in several publications, writing on the themes of travel, culture, fashion, art, and food. Outside of journalism, she loves to be on Tokyo's many stages as a performer.
