Take a tour of a local former Sake brewery. You’ll get a glimpse inside the makings of Japanese history, culture and society. This sake brewery was established in 1637, during a time when samurai, lords, and the shogun still walked the streets. It remained active until 2010 and is now open to the public year-round, including winter, which is typically the brewing season when most sake breweries close their doors to visitors. After touring the former Sake brewery, you’ll have the chance to taste a variety of sake, from dry to floral to rich tasting, each one introduced by your guide and the knowledgeable shop staff. Whether you’re a seasoned sake enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this tasting offers a warm and memorable introduction to the local flavors of Nagano. While the process of making sake is akin to brewing beer, the finished product is best paired with different foods like western wine, designed to match the flavor profiles of any local meal!

This well-known oyaki shop is you can try this local Nagano Oyaki specialty. These dumplings are filled with ingredients like seasonal vegetables, sweet beans, or miso, then steamed or baked to perfection. Enjoying freshly made oyaki in the quiet atmosphere of a restored storehouse offers a simple, satisfying way to connect with local food culture.