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Azumino (Nagano), Japan Alps Views, Winery, Wasabi, Shrine - Day Trip from Matsumoto or Hakuba
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Joined 2026
You will enjoy a panoramic view of the Northern Alps and visit a vast farm where authentic wasabi is grown in clear spring water. In addition to the wasabi fields, you can take in the picturesque scenery featuring iconic waterwheels.
In the afternoon, you will visit Hotaka Shrine with a long history, where the deity of safe journeys is enshrined. There is also a unique monument of another deity, Dosojin. Finally, you will visit a scenic winery. You can relax on the terrace and enjoy a drink.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel in Matsumoto, Hakuba, or Azumino, or at a station or another convenient meeting point
- If you are staying at a hotel in Matsumoto, Hakuba, or Azumino, I will pick you up there. If not, I will meet you at a station or another meeting point we decide on in advance.
Top of Mt. Nagamine: View of the Northern Japan Alps and the landscape of Azumino
You will reach the top of Mt. Nagamine at an elevation of 933 meters and enjoy a panoramic view of the Northern Japan Alps, including nearly 3,000‑meter‑high peaks such as Mt. Jonendake, Mt. Kashimayarigatake, Mt. Goryudake, and Mt. Hakubadake, as well as the peaceful rural landscape of Azumino below.
Daio Wasabi Farm – Vast, Picturesque Farm with Crystal‑Clear Spring Water
Growing authentic wasabi in water requires strict conditions, such as clean, flowing water at a stable temperature, and the natural environment of Azumino is ideal for cultivating wasabi. You can see this impressive setting with your own eyes.
In addition to the wasabi fields, there is much more to explore. The iconic waterwheels—constructed for Akira Kurosawa’s film A Village with a Watermill—are a highlight, as well as a small shrine dedicated to a legendary local figure, Hachimen‑Daio (the Great King with Eight Faces).
Lunch and Shopping
You can have lunch at one of the restaurants at the farm (with both Japanese and Western‑style options available) or at another nearby restaurant. Many of the dishes served at the farm’s restaurants come with fresh, crisp wasabi. You can also browse the farm’s shops for wasabi products, local specialties, and souvenirs.
Hotaka Shrine – A Spiritual Site with a Deep Historical Background in Azumino
This is a spiritual site and an important place for understanding the history of Azumino. The reason why the main deity, Hotakami‑no‑Mikoto, is enshrined here is deeply connected to the origins of the Azumino people. You will also see a unique monument dedicated to another deity, Dosojin. Since it symbolizes everlasting health and happiness, why not make a wish?
Stop at the North Alps Dairy Farm shop
If you like, you can enjoy their ice cream or other dairy products while taking in the beautiful scenery.
Azumino Winery – A Scenic Winery at the Foot of the Northern Japan Alps
Surrounded by wide fields and beautiful mountains, this is one of the most scenic wineries in the region, producing wines that highlight the clean, fresh character of Azumino’s climate. You can enjoy tastings, including several free samples and paid tastings of selected bottles. Non‑alcoholic wines and their popular drinkable yogurt are also available. You can relax on the terrace and enjoy your drink in the fresh air.
At 4:00, you will leave the winery to return to your hotel.
Ending Point
At your hotel in Matsumoto, Hakuba, or Azumino, or at a station or another convenient point
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Guide fee
- Hotel pick‑up (within Matsumoto, Hakuba, or Azumino)
- Transportation by Nissan Roox Hybrid
- Toll fees
- Gasoline
- Lunch (approx. JPY 2,000-JPY 3,000 per person) and refreshments
- Paid tasting fee at Azumino Winery (JPY 550 or JPY 1,650, depending on the type and number of wines selected)
(Several complimentary samples are also available.)
Tour Important Information
- This tour involves walking, so please make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- In cases of bad weather, it may not be possible to enjoy clear views of the Northern Japan Alps from the top of Mt. Nagamine. If this is likely, I will inform you in advance and ask whether you would prefer to visit an alternative location.
- Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions, as well as the type of food you would like for lunch.
- If you meet me in Azumino (instead of Matsumoto or Hakuba), I can arrange an additional visit using the time we save.
- Travel insurance is not included in our tours (apart from my standard car insurance). I recommend arranging your own travel insurance in case of any unexpected accidents or emergencies.
During the high season, weekday tours are recommended to avoid traffic congestion.
Important message from the supplier
- My family car is currently a small "kei" car and has space for up to two guests. If you are three or more people, or if you prefer a larger vehicle, I can try to arrange a rental car for you for an additional fee. In such cases, please understand that I need to confirm the availability of a rental car before accepting the tour.
- Travel insurance is not included in our tours (apart from my standard car insurance). I recommend arranging your own travel insurance in case of any unexpected accidents or emergencies.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2026
About Tour Guide Yoshiko O.
Hello! My name is Yoshiko. I am a national licensed guide‑interpreter in English and Chinese, and I also speak a little French.
I live in Azumino City in Nagano Prefecture, a place known for its stunning views of the Northern Japan Alps, peaceful rural scenery, and crystal‑clear spring water.
Earlier in my career, I worked as a tax consultant and spent time living in England and China. Captivated by Azumino’s natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere, I eventually relocated here from Tokyo.
I would love to show you Azumino’s most beautiful and fascinating places, and introduce you to its culture, history, and local specialties. I am flexible with tour plans, so please feel free to share your interests and requests. I look forward to welcoming you and guiding you through Azumino and the surrounding region.
$424/ per group