Nagano , Japan

Wasabi Farm Walking Tour & Lunch

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(19 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Have ever seen real Wasabi? Discover the Japan’s largest Wasabi Farm!

Nagano Prefecture is the largest producer of wasabi in Japan. Home to many small family-tended plots dotted between the rice fields, rural Azumino – just outside of Matsumoto – also boasts Japan’s largest farm, Daio Wasabi Farm. The farm is a popular tourist friendly destination and is comprised of many large fields with a meticulously maintained network of small streams that constantly provides each wasabi plant with pure clean water.

Our tour includes a traditional lunch designed to highlight the flavor of real wasabi, served with other local food. Under the branding of “Shinshu” – the old name for Nagano Prefecture – you can enjoy our loved Shinshu soba, Shinshu miso and other tasty treats.

We recommend you try some of the many different Wasabi-flavored products during your visit, such as Wasabi ice cream, Wasabi beer, Wasabi sausages or even a Wasabi burger!

Available options

Wasabi Farm Walking Tour & Lunch

What's included

English-speaking Guide

Japanese lunch set with wasabi

Entry to the farm itself is free of charge

Detailed itinerary

The base of the Japanese Alps is home to several Wasabi farms, from the small plots nestled among the multitude of rice fields to Japan’s largest Wasabi farm. Thanks to the fabulous natural environment of the region, a journey into this Japanese countryside is a unique experience not to be missed!

Established in 1915, Daio Wasabi Farm is highly photogenic and the perfect setting in which to dive into the history and versality of this surprising green plant.

Wasabi is an essential element in Japanese cuisine and is particularly renowned as an accompaniment to Japanese sushi. A visit to a wasabi farm is a world of discovery in all the secrets of this famously zesty ingredient.

Please note that the round trip from/to Matsumoto and the Wasabi Farm takes approximately 30 minutes subject to traffic conditions.

This is a walking tour and does not include “behind the scenes” access to any area of the farm.

Our tour includes a traditional lunch designed to highlight the flavor of real wasabi, served with other local food. Under the branding of “Shinshu” – the old name for Nagano Prefecture – you can enjoy our loved Shinshu soba, Shinshu miso and other tasty treats.

Please note, we can of course also cater to vegetarian and vegan guests and families with young children.

During peak season, please be aware we are sometimes unable to make reservations in the restaurant due to the high volume of visitors at the farm. As a result, there maybe a wait time to enter the restaurant.

What's not included

Snacks or drinks inc. wasabi ice cream, beer, sausages, etc.

Any other optional purchases such as souvenirs.

Insurance (Travel Insurance, Private Insurance, etc.)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.3

9 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Your tour will start at the Daio Wasabi Farm - in front of the main entrance gate / parking lot side.

About Nagano

Nagano, the capital of Nagano Prefecture, is a city rich in history and natural beauty. Known for its role in the 1998 Winter Olympics, Nagano offers a blend of traditional Japanese culture, stunning mountain landscapes, and world-class ski resorts. The city is a gateway to some of Japan's most famous hot springs and ancient temples.

Top Attractions

Zenko-ji Temple

Zenko-ji is one of Japan's most important Buddhist temples, dating back to the 7th century. It is a significant pilgrimage site and a symbol of Nagano's spiritual heritage.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani

The Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani are a famous attraction, known for their unique behavior of bathing in hot springs during the winter months.

Nature Half day to full day ¥800 (adults) or ¥400 (children)

Nagano Olympic Museum

This museum commemorates the 1998 Winter Olympics held in Nagano. It features exhibits on the history of the Olympics, the events held in Nagano, and the athletes who participated.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥500 (adults) or ¥200 (children)

Togakushi Shrine

Togakushi Shrine is a complex of three shrines dedicated to the Shinto goddess of archery. It is a popular destination for both spiritual and cultural tourism.

Religious Half day Free (donations appreciated)

Shiga Kogen

Shiga Kogen is one of Japan's largest and most popular ski resorts, known for its extensive ski runs, modern facilities, and beautiful mountain scenery.

Adventure Full day or overnight ¥4,000 - ¥6,000 (lift tickets)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Soba Noodles

Soba noodles are made from buckwheat flour and are a staple of Nagano's cuisine. They can be served hot or cold, with various toppings and dipping sauces.

Dish Vegetarian (if no meat or fish toppings are added)

Oyaki

Oyaki are dumplings filled with various ingredients, such as vegetables, meat, or cheese. They are a popular snack in Nagano and are often served with meals.

Dish Vegetarian options available

Sake

Nagano is known for its high-quality sake, made from locally grown rice. The region has numerous sake breweries, offering a variety of flavors and styles.

Drink Contains alcohol

Onsen Ryori

Onsen Ryori is a type of cuisine served in hot spring resorts. It typically consists of dishes made with local ingredients, such as vegetables, fish, and tofu, cooked in the hot spring water.

Dish Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Skiing Snowboarding Hiking Mountain biking Hot air ballooning Hot spring bathing Temple visiting Shopping

Best Time to Visit

Winter (December to February)

Winter is the peak season for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The city hosts numerous winter festivals and events. Expect heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.

-2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F) 28°F to 41°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Nagano is a generally safe destination for travelers. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is uncommon. However, travelers should still take precautions to protect their belongings and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Use reputable taxis and tour services.

Getting there

By air

Nagano Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from the city center
Chubu Centrair International Airport • 200 km (124 miles) from the city center

By train

Nagano Station

By bus

Nagano Station Bus Terminal, Zenko-ji Temple Bus Stop

Getting around

Public transport

The city bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Nagano, covering most areas of the city and connecting to major attractions. Buses are frequent and affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Nagano Togakushi Shiga Kogen

Day trips

Shiga Kogen

50 km (31 miles) from Nagano • Full day or overnight

Shiga Kogen is one of Japan's largest and most popular ski resorts, offering a wide range of winter and summer activities. It is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Togakushi

20 km (12 miles) from Nagano • Half day

Togakushi is a rural area known for its ancient shrines, soba noodles, and hiking trails. It is a popular destination for both spiritual and cultural tourism.

Jigokudani Monkey Park

60 km (37 miles) from Nagano • Half day to full day

Jigokudani Monkey Park is a popular destination for observing wild Japanese macaques, known as snow monkeys, in their natural habitat. The park is especially famous for the monkeys' unique behavior of bathing in hot springs during the winter months.

Festivals

Nagano Winter Festival • February Nagano Summer Festival • August Togakushi Fire Festival • February 3rd

Pro tips

Visit Zenko-ji Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the temple's serene atmosphere.
Try Togakushi's famous soba noodles at a local restaurant, such as Soba Koenji or Soba Nagano.
Take a day trip to Shiga Kogen for skiing, snowboarding, or hiking, depending on the season.
Experience the Nagano Winter Festival in February for a unique and memorable cultural event.
Visit the Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani in winter to see the monkeys bathing in the hot springs.