Day Trip Iiyama in Nagano Temple and Sake Brewery from Tokyo

Discover Rural Japan: A Day Trip to Iiyama Just 90 minutes from Tokyo by bullet train, Iiyama is a peaceful town in northern Nagano, surrounded by forests and rice fields. Begin at Sho-nenji Temple, known as the “Temple of Moss and Maple,” where seasonal beauty surrounds its quiet halls. Then visit the Takahashi Mayumi Doll Museum, where handmade dolls depict everyday scenes from countryside life with warmth and charm. In the afternoon, explore Tanakaya Shuzo, a family-run sake brewery using the same wooden building for over 150 years. Learn about traditional brewing and sample their signature sake, Mizuo. For groups of four or more, a shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian lunch) at Daishoji Temple is available with advance reservation, prepared by the head priest with local ingredients. This relaxing tour invites you to experience a slower pace of life, deep cultural roots, and the quiet beauty of rural Japan—an ideal escape from the crowds of the city.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   2.5 hours

   Meet at your hotel and go to Tokyo station and take a bullet train for Iiyama, Nagano Pref.

2. 2

   Shonen-ji Temple

   30 min

   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.

3. 3

   Mayumi Takahashi Doll Museum

   30 min

   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.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   1.5 hours

   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.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   1.5 hours

   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.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   2.5 hours

   You will return to Tokyo by bullet train from Iiyama Station. After arriving at Tokyo Station, the tour will end either at your hotel or at a location of your choice in the city.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• 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.
• Minor travelers below 21 years old will be served non-alcoholic drinks.

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