5 Recommended Tourist Spots in Obuse Town, Nagano! The Town of Chestnuts, Flowers, and Hokusai

Obuse Town, located in the northeastern part of Nagano Prefecture, is home to many historically significant and valuable legacies, including those of Katsushika Hokusai. By effectively utilizing these cultural assets, the town has gradually gained popularity and is now well-known throughout Japan as a prominent tourist destination. Though Obuse is a small town with a population of about 10,000 people, it attracts many visitors throughout the year.

Among the many sightseeing spots in Obuse, we have carefully selected five highly recommended gourmet and tourist spots. Experience the changing seasons while exploring the attractions of Obuse!

1. Matsubaya Honten

Matsubaya Honten, located in Obuse Town, is a long-established sake brewery. They produce famous sake brands such as "Motokichi no Kawa" and "Hokushinryu," and visitors can also enjoy tastings. As you pass through the shop curtains, you’ll see rows of beautifully displayed sake bottles. The water in Obuse is hard water, and they carefully craft their sake to complement this, resulting in sake with rich and creative flavors. They have many fans across Japan, and some people visit Obuse Town specifically to go to Matsubaya Honten. It’s also very popular with international tourists.

Tours are available, where you can learn the history behind the name "Motokichi no Kawa" and stories related to "Hokushinryu." Each tour accommodates about 20 people and lasts roughly 20 to 30 minutes, making it a perfect stop during your sightseeing trip in Obuse.

2. Obuse Highway Oasis "Michi no Eki Oasis Obuse"

Located within Obuse General Park, the Obuse Highway Oasis "Michi no Eki Oasis Obuse" is one of Obuse's most popular tourist spots. Here, you’ll find many souvenir shops, a dining hall, a dog run, and even an art museum.

The store boasts the largest selection in Obuse, offering around 2,000 local specialties, including famous chestnut sweets, Nozawana pickles, Shinshu soba, and fruit jams from Obuse and northern Nagano. A recommended souvenir is the chestnut shochu "Kuridokko," made from fresh chestnuts.

The sunset view on clear days is breathtaking, making it an ideal spot for a break during a drive. You can stroll through the spacious park, enjoy a meal, or shop for souvenirs—there’s plenty to enjoy at this Obuse sightseeing spot.

3. Obuse Onsen Akebi no Yu

Obuse Onsen Akebi no Yu is a hot spring facility in Obuse Town that offers both day trips and overnight stays. The open-air baths have reclining areas in both the men’s and women’s sections, where you can relax while gazing at the blue sky or the starry night, providing healing for both body and soul. In the morning, you can admire the view of the "Five Peaks of Hokushin," and at night, enjoy the nightscape of Obuse Town—a luxurious experience.

The area surrounding Akebi no Yu is dotted with apple and grape orchards, making a morning walk highly recommended. Take a leisurely stroll along the walking paths and streams, breathe in the fresh countryside air, and enjoy a refreshing break.

4. Obusedo Main Store

Obusedo Main Store is a popular destination among female tourists visiting Obuse Town. Known for its traditional architecture and local gourmet specialty, chestnut sweets ("kuri-gashi"), this spot has become a must-visit in Obuse.

Inside Obusedo Main Store, you'll find a wide selection of their famous chestnut sweets. Their most popular item is the Mont Blanc, but they also offer "Kurikanoko," which features whole large chestnuts coated in a paste made from just sugar and chestnuts, and "Kurimushi," a favorite made with sweetened chestnuts wrapped in red bean paste. Another favorite is the "Kurikanoko Cake." Each of these chestnut delicacies has its own unique flavor, and they are highly recommended for anyone visiting Obuse.

September and October are peak seasons for chestnut dishes, attracting many tourists. You can enjoy seasonal ingredients, with different flavors each time you visit. If you’re touring Obuse, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the seasonal tastes at Obusedo Main Store.

5. Floral Garden Obuse

Floral Garden Obuse is a recommended sightseeing spot in Obuse Town for flower lovers. There are benches placed throughout the garden, so you can relax and enjoy a leisurely time. It's perfect for families, couples, those who enjoy peaceful sightseeing, and people who want to relax through forest bathing.

The garden includes a greenhouse featuring ornamental plants and rare tropical fruits like guava, jackfruit, and acerola. There’s also a flower shop that offers dried flowers and flower-related goods, making it a fun place for shopping. Experience a luxurious, relaxing time surrounded by flowers during your visit to Obuse.

◎ Summary of Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Obuse

We’ve introduced some of the best sightseeing spots in Obuse. The town offers many delicious gourmet destinations. In addition, you can enjoy a relaxing trip by visiting art museums that showcase works by Obuse's local artists or strolling through courses filled with various flowers. Spring and autumn are perfect for sightseeing, but the winter scenery in Obuse is also incredibly magical and beautiful.

There are also cycling courses where you can ride a rental bike and visit temples, museums, and memorial halls at your own pace. During weekends, holidays, and tourist seasons, shuttle buses for tourists are available, making it easy to explore Obuse in a relaxed manner. Obuse Town is full of charm—definitely consider visiting and experiencing it for yourself!

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5 Recommended Tourist Spots in Obuse Town, Nagano! The Town of Chestnuts, Flowers, and Hokusai