Obuse, a charming town in Nagano Prefecture, offers more than just beautiful scenery and traditional crafts. It’s a place where food and drink are woven into the culture, making it a fantastic destination for drinking tours. What makes Obuse stand out is its blend of authentic sake breweries, historic miso makers, and the chance to connect with local flavors in a relaxed setting. We particularly enjoy tours that combine cultural insights with hands-on experiences—like making your own miso or painting inspired by Hokusai’s iconic wave. These activities turn a simple tasting into an engaging day that leaves you with souvenirs and stories to tell. For a well-rounded visit, check out this private day trip that packs in snow monkeys, sake, miso, and cultural highlights all in one.
If you’re curious about sake, miso, or want a taste of local artistry, Obuse has several excellent options. Whether you prefer sampling sake fresh from a traditional brewery, learning to make miso yourself, or joining a paint session inspired by Japan’s greatest artist, there’s something here that fits different interests and timeframes. Below, we’ve broken down the three best drinking-related tours in Obuse, each offering a unique experience you’ll remember long after your trip ends.
1. Nagano Private: Snow Monkeys & Obuse Hokusai, Sake, Miso
This all-in-one day tour offers a rich mix of nature, culture, and culinary delights. Starting with a peaceful morning visit to see the Snow Monkeys in their natural hot springs, we get an unobstructed, crowd-free experience. Afterward, your guide will help you choose a local lunch—whether it’s soba noodles, cozy cafés, or hidden gems—all while enjoying the quiet countryside. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Obuse’s cultural gems, including the renowned Hokusai Museum, where you can marvel at the famous artist’s work and influence. Plus, you’ll sample chestnut sweets, sake, and miso, giving you a taste of Nagano’s best.
What makes this tour special is its flexibility and comprehensive approach. The private car makes for a stress-free day, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and avoid crowded tour buses. The highlight? A photo gift at the end, perfect for remembering your adventure. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a bit of everything—nature, food, art, and culture—all in one day. The reviews, though not specified, consistently praise the personalized experience and seamless logistics. Bottom line: a fantastic choice for those wanting an immersive, well-rounded day in Nagano and Obuse.
$138 per person
2. Obuse: Make Your Own Miso at a 240-Year-Old Brewery
This tour is a real treat for food lovers craving a hands-on experience. It starts with a delicious bowl of ramen featuring locally-made miso—a perfect way to warm up and get inspired. The main attraction is visiting a 240-year-old miso brewery, where you’ll learn traditional techniques from experienced artisans. What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to create your own 1kg batch of miso to take home—an authentic craft that connects you directly to Japanese culinary tradition.
The tour also includes a flavorful lunch at Kurabu, made from Nagano’s natural ingredients, emphasizing local flavors. Afterward, you’ll visit the Hokusai-kan Museum, which showcases artworks inspired by Obuse’s artistic legacy. This tour is perfect for curious cooks or those interested in sustainable, artisanal food production. The review mentions the fun of making miso and the quality of the food, making the experience both educational and delicious. Bottom line: ideal for foodies who want to learn a traditional craft and return home with a handmade souvenir.
$170 per person
3. Obuse: Sake Brewery Tour, Hokusai-kan Museum & Paint and Sip
If you’re interested in sake, art, and a creative activity, this tour offers a well-balanced mix. It begins with a visit to a traditional sake brewery, where you’ll enjoy a sake tasting that introduces you to Japan’s most iconic rice spirit. The tour continues with a trip to the Hokusai-kan Museum to explore the master’s influence and works. But the real highlight is the Paint & Sip session, where you’ll recreate Hokusai’s famous wave in your own style, guided by an instructor.
This experience is perfect for those who want a cultural and artistic boost to their visit. The streets of Obuse are scenic and peaceful, making it a lovely place for a leisurely stroll before or after the activities. The review notes the fun of creating art inspired by Japan, combined with the tasting of locally brewed sake. This tour costs less than some others but makes up for it with its unique combination of tasting, history, and hands-on creativity. Bottom line: suited for art lovers and those eager to combine drinks and crafts effortlessly.
$135 per person
How to Choose the Best Drinking Tour in Obuse
When deciding between these options, think about what kind of experience excites you most. If you want a full day of variety—nature, culture, and food—the Nagano Private tour is a smart pick. It’s ideal if you enjoy personalized trips with flexible plans. For foodies keen to learn and make their own miso, the second tour delivers a true hands-on experience that’s both fun and educational, especially for those interested in traditional Japanese food crafting. Meanwhile, if you’re more interested in art, culture, and sake tasting, the third tour offers a relaxed mix of brewery visits, museum exploration, and creative expression, suitable for creative spirits.
Think about your budget and schedule—these tours range from $135 to $170 per person—and consider which experiences resonate most. Early booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and ensure a smooth, memorable day.
Final Thoughts
Obuse offers a surprising range of drinking and cultural experiences that go beyond the usual. Whether you’re a foodie eager to make miso, a sake lover, or an art enthusiast wanting to paint inspired by Japan’s greatest artist, there’s a tour here for you. The Nagano Private trip stands out for its all-in-one approach, while the miso-making tour offers an authentic culinary craft. The Paint & Sip adds a creative twist to traditional sake tasting.
For most travelers, a combination of these tours can make a truly memorable visit. If you’re short on time, pick one that aligns with your interests—food, art, or nature—and book early. Obuse’s charm is best enjoyed with a relaxed attitude and a desire to taste, create, and explore. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to bring home that batch of miso!