Iiyama Temple and Sake Brewery Day Trip from Nagano
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Discover the charming Iiyama region in Nagano on this immersive day trip. Visit the stunning Mayumi Takahashi Doll Museum and enjoy a traditional Shojin ryori lunch at Daishoji Temple. Experience the art of sake brewing with a guided tour and tasting at Tanakaya Shuzo, where you’ll learn about the intricate process of sake production. This private tour includes hotel pickup, bullet train travel, and an English-speaking licensed guide, ensuring a personalized experience. Perfect for those interested in culture, history, and gastronomy.
- Private tour with only your group participating
- Hotel pickup and bullet train included for convenience
- Sake brewery tour and tasting experience
- Traditional Shojin ryori lunch provided (for 4+ guests)
- Takahashi Mayumi Doll Museum is closed on Wednesdays, so if you choose Wednesday for your tour date, we will guide you to an alternative location.
Available options
Local Train Plan
Local Train Plan: This plan uses local trains instead of the Shinkansen, offering a more budget-friendly option compared to the standard tour.<br/>Pickup included
Iiyama Temple & Sake Brewery Day Trip from Nagano
by Bullet Train<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Public Transportation fee
Admission Fee(Mayumi Takahashi Doll Meseum)
Bullet train between Nagano and Iiyama
Sake brewery tour and tasting at Tanakaya Shuzo
Shojin ryori lunch at Daishoji Temple (for 4+ guests) or local lunch
Hotel Pickup
National Licensed English Speaking Guide. Please let us know if you prefer any other languages.
Detailed itinerary
1
Shonen-ji Temple is a serene Jodo-sect Buddhist temple with over 500 years of history, nestled in the peaceful countryside of Iiyama. The temple's main hall houses a graceful Amida Buddha statue, and the surrounding gardens bloom beautifully with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Visitors are invited to experience the quiet spirituality of rural Japan, and on certain days, you may even take part in sutra copying or listen to a brief sermon by the head priest. Deeply rooted in the local community, this temple offers a glimpse into the spiritual heart of Iiyama.
2
The Mayumi Takahashi Doll Museum showcases heartwarming, life-sized clay dolls that depict scenes of everyday rural life in Japan. With expressive faces and nostalgic settings—elderly couples tending fields, children playing at festivals—each doll tells a story. These works capture the warmth, humor, and simplicity of Japan’s countryside, resonating with both domestic and international audiences. The museum also offers insight into the artist’s creative process and inspiration. It's a touching, one-of-a-kind cultural experience that allows you to connect with Japan’s past and the beauty of ordinary life.
*Since Wednesday is a regular closing day, if you choose Wednesday for your tour date, we will guide you to an alternative location.
3
Daishoji Temple is a historic Zen temple nestled in the quiet countryside of Iiyama. Surrounded by lush forests and terraced rice fields, it offers a serene retreat where visitors can experience the tranquility of rural Japan. The wooden halls and peaceful garden paths reflect centuries of spiritual devotion and continue to serve as a place of quiet reflection for the local community. For groups of four or more with a prior reservation, a traditional shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian) meal is available, made with seasonal ingredients from the surrounding area. A visit to Daishoji provides not only natural beauty and stillness, but also a glimpse into the meditative spirit of Zen.
4
You will visit Tanakaya Shuzo, a long-established sake brewery in Iiyama with a history of over 150 years. This family-run brewery is renowned for its flagship brand “Mizuo,” brewed using locally grown rice and pristine spring water from the surrounding mountains. During the tour, you will learn about the traditional sake-making techniques that have been passed down for generations. Remarkably, the brewery still operates in the original building constructed over 150 years ago—an increasingly rare sight in Japan. After the tour, you will enjoy a tasting of several Mizuo varieties, known for their smooth, clear flavor and delicate aroma. Whether you’re a sake enthusiast or a first-time taster, this is a unique opportunity to experience the essence of Japanese craftsmanship and fermentation culture rooted in the local community.
What's not included
Personal Expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Minor travelers below 21 years old will be served non-alcoholic drinks.
The itinerary might be changed due to weather condition or other reasons.
We can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. If you have dietary requirements. Please indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking.
Important notes
Please show the ticket to the guide when you meet.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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