While not existing anymore, Matsumoto City once belonged to a prefecture called Chikuma (筑摩県) between 1871 to 1876. Although the prefecture lasted less than five years, Chikuma Prefecture is known for its passion for education. In a short period of time, many schools were established with a high enrolment rate. Even after Chikuma Prefecture was […]
Explore the Old Schools in Matsumoto, Japan’s Education Prefecture Read More »
Among all the castles in Japan, only twelve have a castle keep from the Edo period (1603 – 1867). Furthermore, among the twelve, only five are designated national treasures. So if you are searching for the best castle to visit for your next Japan trip, consider Matsumoto City‘s symbol, Matsumoto Castle (松本城), a national treasure
The Ultimate Guide to Matsumoto Castle Read More »
If you are looking for a stunning place to visit in Japan that hasn’t been commercialized and has an abundance of nature, consider dropping by Kinasa in Nagano Prefecture! The quaint village is just around an hour away by bus from the city center of Nagano. It is also adjacent to both Togakushi and Hakuba,
Kinasa – A Village Filled with Myths and Amazing Nature Read More »
Okususobana Valley (奥裾花渓谷) is one of the most scenic spots in Nagano. Located in Kinasa Village‘s north, the picturesque valley was chosen to be one of the 100 Landscapes of Japan. Especially in October, when the 5 km valley is decorated with vivid fall color, it receives numerous visitors for the masterpiece created by mother
Okususobana Valley – One of the Most Stunning Places in Nagano Read More »
Important: Unfortunately, Itōya will close from the 1st of April 2025 with no plans to reopen currently. If you are looking for a vegan-friendly Izakaya (similar to a Western pub, a Spanish tapas bar, or a tavern) in Matsumoto, visit Itōya (小料理 いとう家). Here, you can enjoy homemade local dishes prepared using locally sourced ingredients,
Itōya: The Best Vegan-Friendly Izakaya in Matsumoto Read More »
Visit Japan’s biggest wasabi farm, Daiō Wasabi Farm (大王わさび農場), to taste truly authentic wasabi in Azumino City in Nagano Prefecture! You are probably thinking, well, we have got that spicy green stuff in the Japanese restaurant in my neighborhood. But do you know over 95% of wasabi served in Japanese restaurants doesn’t contain any real
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When people speak about tofu dishes, they often talk about bean curd or deep-fried tofu. At Sabō Mameya (茶房まめ家), you will be blown away by the large variety of menus. From appetizers to desserts, soybeans are used in each dish. But most of the time, you can’t even tell! We are sure you will be
The Best Vegetarian Course Menu at Sabō Mameya, Obuse Nagano Read More »
Obuse is a lovely town in Nagano Prefecture, famous for its delicious chestnuts and ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai from the 18th century. And it is also on the way to Jigokudani Monkey Park (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ. While the main street of Obuse is within a 10-minute walk from Nagano Dentetsu’s Obuse Station, to really explore Obuse properly,
Your Ultimate Bike Rental Guide in Obuse Nagano Read More »
Obuse (小布施) is a lovely town in Nagano Prefecture, famous for its delicious chestnuts and ukiyo-e artist, Katsushika Hokusai, from the 16th century. Apart from the super sweet chestnuts, the best thing about this town is that it isn’t filled with tourists (*’▽’). You are guaranteed that you won’t be pushed around while exploring the
Obuse – The Chestnut Town that All Sweet Tooths Must Visit Read More »
Monzen Terrace Enya (エンヤ) is an Izakaya-style restaurant at the starting point of Zenkoji Temple‘s approach. Befitting the restaurant’s name, it has a large comfortable terrace at the back. When the weather is good, sit at one of the tables on the terrace for fresh air. There might even be a few adorable dogs that
MONZEN TERRACE ENYA: A Great Restaurant Close to Zenkoji Read More »
