Premium Dairy Delights Await! Top 4 Popular Souvenirs from Minamimaki Village, Nagano

Minamimaki Village in Minamisaku District, Nagano Prefecture is packed with sights—Nobeyama Station (Japan’s highest-elevation railway station), the rustic Honsawa Onsen, and Chikuma River (Shinano River), Japan’s longest. Beyond its attractions, the village is famed for fresh produce and dairy: Chinese cabbage, cabbage, hana-mame (scarlet runner beans), nagaimo (yam), and milk-based products.
In this guide, we introduce must-buy souvenirs from Minamimaki—handpicked crowd favorites you’ll want to take home after your visit.

1. Shinshu Grapes

Shinshu Grapes, known locally as Shinshu Budō, are one of the most popular souvenirs in Minamimaki Village. Compared to ordinary grapes, they are sweeter, have a deeper color, and are rich in nutrients such as Vitamin A and Vitamin C, which are said to promote healthy, glowing skin. These grapes are also a great choice as a healthy snack for children.
Just a 15-minute walk from Nobeyama Station, you’ll find the Yamaho Seika Bikkuri Market, a local farmers’ market and souvenir shop selling fresh vegetables and fruits harvested in Minamimaki Village. Here, you can also discover delightful Shinshu grape products like ice cream and jam—perfect gifts to bring home. During summer, the market overflows with seasonal favorites such as corn, peaches, blueberries, and watermelons. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the region!

2. Shinshu Miso

Shinshu Miso is a traditional Japanese miso made from rice malt (kome kōji) and soybeans. While it uses the same base ingredients as Saikyo Miso, the production process and proportions differ, giving Shinshu Miso its distinct taste and character. This regional miso enjoys nationwide popularity and has long been a favorite souvenir from Minamimaki Village.
Nagano Prefecture is the leading producer of Shinshu Miso, accounting for nearly half of all miso production in Japan. With such a strong market share, it is the go-to miso used in many restaurants across the region. Travelers who want to take home authentic Shinshu Miso should stop by Miyage Watanabe, a well-known souvenir shop in Nobeyama.

3. Shuppoppo Milk Rusk

The Shuppoppo Milk Rusk is a popular snack enjoyed by both children and adults. Made with 100% fresh milk from Nobeyama Highlands, each rusk captures the gentle, creamy sweetness of milk in every bite. With its irresistible crispy texture, this treat is perfect for snacking anytime, anywhere, making it one of the best souvenirs to take home from Nagano.
At the Yatsuren Soft Cream Shop, where Shuppoppo Milk Rusk is sold, you can also find a delightful variety of dairy-based sweets such as ice cream, yogurt, cheesecake, and pudding. Each freshly made treat is rich in flavor, highlighting the natural taste of milk. Whether you’re passing by for a quick break or looking for the perfect gift, this shop offers a delicious taste of Nagano’s dairy culture.

4. Jersey Drinkable Yogurt

At the Yatsuren Soft Cream Shop in Minamimaki Village, one more specialty you shouldn’t miss is the Jersey Drinkable Yogurt. Made from rich Jersey cow’s milk, this yogurt is loved for its deep, creamy flavor. Whether you prefer soft-serve ice cream or this refreshing yogurt drink, both are delicious options for travelers.
The drinkable yogurt comes in a handy single-serve size at an affordable price, making it an excellent choice for a souvenir gift. With its farm-fresh, full-bodied taste, it’s guaranteed to bring joy to anyone back home.

◎ Summary

The charm of Minamimaki Village is not only in its scenic spots but also in its local products. Souvenirs like the famous Shuppoppo Milk Rusk and the Jersey Drinkable Yogurt are highly popular, with many visitors buying them every trip. The yogurt can even be ordered online, making it a convenient treat. If you’re unsure what souvenirs to buy in Minamimaki, this guide will surely help you make the best choice.

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