DAY 1【A lunch prepared with fermented foods at Koujiya Hondo Brewery 】
THE REAL TASTE Brewery that continues to brew by hand
Koujiya Hondo Brewery which was established in 1869 and is surrounded by the rich nature of Shinshu, continues to carefully protect the manufacturing method from the time of its founding, which is hand-made from kouji. We make miso with great care. No matter how the times change, we want to protect the wisdom and technology we inherited and pass them on to future generations. Rather than seeking efficiency, we want to take responsibility for creating things with our own hands where possible. We continue to pursue the "genuine" taste with natural brewing that takes advantage of the land's climate, with a focus on hand-made wooden barrels. We want to deliver true deliciousness and original taste. We use 100% domestic raw materials.
In this project, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a fermented lunch at Kojiya Café by Kojiya Hondo Brewing. The café offers a body-friendly lunch with seasonal ingredients and handmade fermented foods.
DAY 1 【Yonako Fudōson Hombō Takizan Itokuin Fudōji and Okunoin Temple】
Explore the history of Fudō Buddhism, learn about the Yonako Kodo Trail and Ōsasa Road, and participate in the Gomataki fire ritual experience.
DAY2【Snowshoeing Amidst the Grand Ice Falls in Joshinetsu Kogen National Park 】
The Yonako Great Waterfall is situated in the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, and it consists of two falls cascading down the northern wall of Mount Azumaya, the headwaters of the Yonako River. These falls are known as 'Fudo Falls (89m)' and 'Gongen Falls (82m).' Especially, Fudo Falls has been a traditional site for mountain ascetic training, alongside the inner sanctuary of Yonako Takiyama Fudo Temple. In the summer, you might even catch a glimpse of ascetic practitioners engaging in waterfall meditation known as 'misogi.’
During the winter period, the area transforms into a challenging environment with snow accumulation exceeding 3 meters and temperatures dropping below -20 degrees Celsius. Due to these harsh conditions, access for general visitors is prohibited to access. Thanks to the full cooperation of Suzaka City and Yonako Takiyama Fudo Temple, a special snowshoe tour around the snowy and icy world of Yonako Great Ice Falls and the inner sanctuary of Yonako Takiyama Fudo Temple during the severe winter period has been realized.
DAY3 【A Special Experience at TANAKAHONKE MUSEUM】
< About TANAKAHONKE MUSEUM >
The Tanakahonke, whose origins date back to the mid-Edo period (1733), has a rich history. They served as the Suzaka clan for generations and held the privilege, typical of the samurai class in the Edo era, of wearing a family crest and carrying a sword. Over time, they evolved into prominent landowners, shouldering significant responsibilities related to the clan's finances. Their wealth surpassed even that of the Suzaka , establishing them as one of the leading merchants in northern Shinano.
The estate, which echoes the atmosphere of that era, spans approximately 100 meters in each direction, surrounded by 20 storehouses. The interior features a grand garden with a pond and a stroll-style garden created in the 1780s. In addition, buildings, including a guesthouse and the main residence harmonize Beautifully. Today, it operates as the Tanakahonke Museum, showcasing the well-preserved gardens and the collection passed down through generations, providing insights into the bygone era.
< Lunch Featuring a Special Menu Recreating Edo Period Hospitality >
Tanakahonke has served as the guesthouse for the Suzaka clan, hosting lords, dignitaries, and guests associated with the clan. The banquets are meticulously recorded in the 'Shokyaku Makanaikata Hikae Cho,' an ancient document passed down through generations in the Tanakahonke.
This record, known as 'Shokyaku Makanaikata Hikae Cho,' not only outlines the menu for banquets but also details the utensils used, offering insights into the culinary culture of that era. Despite being a small clan with only about 10,000 koku in a mountainous region, Suzaka clan's cuisine prominently featured valuable seafood, with sashimi and grilled dishes. It's remarkable to uncover such a rich culinary culture thriving in a regional area, distinct from Edo or Kyoto.
This special project aims to recreate the banquet cuisine of that era based on the ancient document, providing participants with the opportunity to savor Edo-period dishes and view preserved utensils. The plates and bowls used for presenting these elaborate dishes primarily showcase Imari ware, while sturdy Wajima lacquerware is employed for rice and soups.
On the day of the event, you will be warmly welcomed by Mr. Hirokazu Tanaka, the 12th-generation head of the Tanaka family. He will provide insightful commentary on the history, cuisine, and utensils of the Tanaka family. Let's delve into the culinary arts of the Edo period and explore the historically valuable aspects of Japan together.
【Accommodation: You can choose from the following plans.】
<SHIRAFUJI>
We also offer a unique lodging experience at "Shirafuji," a one-day-only accommodation plan utilizing a national tangible cultural property in Suzaka,Nagano. You can experience the traditional building of Japanese lifestyle spanning 140 years and the western-style building from the Meiji era, as exclusive spaces. This allows you to immerse yourself in the beautiful Japanese way of life that has continued for over a century and the richness of life in Suzaka, Nagano.
~Our dinner~
At the main residence of Shirafuji, you have the option to enjoy one of two delightful dining experiences. Choose between a course menu featuring home-cooked dishes with abundant Shinshu ingredients or a full-course fusion of French and Italian cuisine.
<SUZAKAONSEN KOJO-SO>
Suzaka Onsen, a renowned hot spring said to have rejuvenated even the famous warlord Kenshin Uesugi. Boasting a generous flow of 157 liters per minute, this onsen features a mildly alkaline simple hot spring, often referred to as the 'beauty bath' and 'bath for beautiful women.' It's a casual hot spring inn where you can enjoy a relaxed and carefree stay.
【PHOTO】SHIRAFUJI