Explore the Japanese Countryside: Natural and Cultural Landscapes of Tenryukyo, Iida City

Leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind, enjoy new discoveries, and find inspiration in nature and culture through an extraordinary and immersive countryside experience.

This tour allows you to experience the beautiful nature and traditional culture of Minami-Shinshu. The tour offers an opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a profound taste of authentic Japan in the tranquil Tenryukyo Gorge region of Iida City, Nagano Prefecture. Travel in a chartered express train car from Toyohashi Station on the Tokaido Shinkansen and enjoy special snacks and drinks courtesy of Yukimoto, a renowned local restaurant and one of only 35 establishments awarded “Gold” by a famous Japanese restaurant review website out of 850,000 nationwide restaurants. We offer a variety of fantastic experiences that will leave a deep impression: Tenryukyo rafting amid beautiful seasonal scenery; food and farming with Tenryukyo kurobuta (black pork) and specialty apples that can only be harvested locally; and lodging at a local farmhouse to experience rural life in Japan. Visitors can also check out wayuraku traditional Japanese music and dance, and Ningyo Joruri puppet theater. The area is steeped in ancient Japanese traditions—a mystical festival held in the area is meant to entertain the gods with hot spring water and is said to have inspired a world-renowned animated film. All itineraries include transportation and the option of dinner at Yukimoto, which is often difficult to book for tours. This experience goes beyond tourism. It allows you to feel a deep connection with the local people while learning and being inspired by the region. We invite you to join this special trip to enjoy nature, culture, and the charms of Japan.