Taste the flavors of the Japanese Alps in Matsukawa Town,

Matsukawa City is located in the southernmost tip of Nagano Prefecture, nestled in the heart of the Ina Valley and surrounded by the Central and Southern Alps. Matsukawa’s first attempts at fruit growing date back to the Edo period, but most orchards didn’t start appearing until the Taisho period. Although Matsukawa is best known for its Fuji apples and Japanese pears, it now produces a variety of fruits, including cherries, blueberries, peaches, plums, prunes, and grapes. From June to November, there’s always something in season to pick and enjoy.

Known for its lush orchards and picturesque scenery, Matsukawa offers a unique experience for those who love fresh fruit, fine wine and al fresco dining. One of the best ways to enjoy these things is through Food tourallowing visitors to indulge in the best flavors the region has to offer, from freshly picked fruits to locally crafted wines.

Visit Matsukawa’s brewery and taste the wine

Matsukawa’s winemaking tradition is an important part of its agricultural heritage. The region’s fluctuating temperatures, abundant sunshine and terraced terrain make it ideal for growing fruits such as apples and grapes, producing high-quality wines that reflect the warm character of the Ina Valley.

Your journey begins with a stay at Seiryuen, a traditional inn known for its soothing natural hot springs. After check-in, a private taxi will pick you up from your accommodation to begin your brewery tour.

Matsuno wine

Located 750 meters above sea level in Matsukawa, Mashino Wine has been producing wine and cider since 1987, highlighting the unique characteristics of locally grown apples and grapes. After a tour of the production facilities and cellars with Chief Winemaker Tsukuri Suyama, you will be taken to the picturesque meadows outside the winery. Here you can sip on their wines, hard ciders and (when available) apple brandies as well as light snacks while taking in the stunning panoramic views of the Southern Alps as far as the eye can see.

Wenwei

The next stop on the trip is Wenweia boutique winery and cidery founded in 2018, known for its innovative approach to winemaking. In addition to producing beloved crisp whites and rich reds, VinVie also pushes boundaries with experimental beers such as aromatic hop ciders and dry ciders fermented with yeast strains derived from bees. The tasting room features glass windows that provide a clear view of the production room and cellar, allowing visitors to observe the winemaking process first-hand. VinVie has a professional team of four people and produces approximately 20,000 bottles of wine every year to ensure that every bottle of wine is of top quality. One of the founders, Atsushi Sato, personally guides visitors through the wine tasting experience, sharing the origins and meticulous production process behind each glass of wine.

Pick and taste seasonal fruits at Shiroda Orchard

At Shiroda Orchards, enjoy a guided tour of the vineyards and fields led by a farmer himself. Depending on the season, you’ll gain hands-on experience harvesting ripe seasonal fruits such as apples, pears, prunes, prunes and cherries. As you walk through the orchards, farmers will also explain to you the organic growing process, the different varieties of produce and the ideal growing conditions in the area. Afterwards, gather together for a tasting where farmers will prepare and serve freshly picked fruit so you can taste the flavors of the day’s harvest.

Dine alfresco at Orchard Restaurant Matsukawa

Orchard Restaurant Matsukawa, helmed by Chef Akihiko Sakamoto and his wife Cristina, offers an unforgettable French dining experience rooted in the local flavors of Matsukawa and Inagaya. Every weekend the restaurant moves to a new picturesque location, the closest being Marutomo Okuda Farm – a scenic spot set among apple orchards and surrounded by the majestic Central and Southern Alps.

The evening begins with an orchard tour led by a local farmer who shares insights into fruit growing. Guests then raised a glass of locally brewed cider to join the farmers, followed by an aperitif. At sunset, prepare for a seven-course al fresco dinner illuminated by soft lanterns. Meals feature carefully crafted seasonal French dishes paired with ciders and wines, all served while seated in a heated setting. kotatsu The table protects against the evening chill. We also provide jackets to ensure guests are comfortable during this amazing outdoor experience.

Relax and end the day with a hot spring bath in Qinglong Garden

After a day of exploring, you’ll take a private taxi to Seiryuen, a charming traditional hot spring inn hidden in nature. slide into comfort bathrobe Rejuvenate with a soak in the hotel’s natural hot springs, and indoor and outdoor baths soothe tired feet and relax the body.

In the morning, you can enjoy a carefully prepared breakfast at Orchard Restaurant Matsukawa. The meal includes hot apple and bacon sandwiches, apple soup, fresh salads, smoothies and your choice of coffee or tea, complemented by plenty of freshly sliced ​​seasonal fruit. Three juices made from the region’s most popular apple varieties further enhance the flavor of the meal. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you will check out of Qinglong Garden and end your gourmet tour.

To book an orchard food adventure tour in Nagano Matsukawa, click here.

Getting to Matsukawa:

It takes 2 hours to drive from Nagoya IC to Matsukawa IC, and 3 hours to drive from Hachioji IC to Matsukawa IC.

Express buses are also available from Shinjuku Station and Nagoya Meitetsu Bus Center.