A Day at Daio Wasabi Farm: Our Family Adventure in Nagano

During Japan’s bustling Golden Week, we decided to escape the urban grind and explore the charming countryside of Nagano with our family. We spent a few days in Matsumoto and decided to take a detour before we get home. We ended up at Daio Wasabi Farm in Azumino City, a place that’s as magical as it sounds. Getting there was quite an ordeal; we were stuck in a brutal traffic jam, but trust me, it was worth every frustrating moment.

Exploring the Green Expanse

As soon as we stepped onto the Daio Wasabi Farm, it felt like we were entering a different world. Wasabi plants covered the land as far as the eye could see, painting a vivid splash of green against the backdrop of distant mountains. The farm offers guided tours, and we jumped at the chance. Our guide was a local who walked us through the lush fields, explaining how wasabi is grown and why it’s such a big deal in Japanese cuisine. Breathing in the fresh, peppery air was invigorating!

Navigating through the farm, the meticulously crafted waterways caught our attention. Originating from the Azusa River, these canals are not just functional; they add to the beauty of the place. We took a boat ride, which turned out to be a serene experience as we glided quietly through the water, surrounded by the natural beauty of the area.

A Stroll Through Cinema

One of the coolest parts of our visit was seeing the quaint watermills and thatched-roof houses from Akira Kurosawa’s film “Dreams“. These structures stood proudly along the Tate River, offering a picturesque scene that seemed straight out of a movie—literally. The attention to detail in maintaining these historical pieces was impressive, providing a perfect blend of nature and art.

Wasabi Tasting Adventures

Of course, a visit to the Daio Wasabi Farm wouldn’t be complete without tasting some wasabi-themed dishes. We were adventurous enough to try the wasabi ice cream. It was a weird mix of cool and spicy—definitely not something you find at your local grocery store! We also enjoyed wasabi soba noodles and the crunchiest wasabi croquettes at the farm’s restaurant. They even make wasabi beer which we were not so crazy about, but it was surely an interesting idea! Eating these specialties while looking out over the waterways and fields made the flavors even more memorable.

Savoring the Moments

Sitting there, amidst the sprawling beauty of Daio Wasabi Farm, it’s easy to appreciate the effort that goes into growing the fiery wasabi we often take for granted. The farm is more than just a place to learn about wasabi; it’s a celebration of nature, tradition, and hard work. The workers, with their deep knowledge and dedication, ensure that each plant thrives in the mineral-rich waters that flow down from the Alps.

Taking a Piece of Daio Home

Before we headed back, we couldn’t resist stopping by the gift shop. It was filled with all things wasabi, from snacks to potted plants and even wasabi-themed kitchenware. For a more traditional experience, we also visited the farm’s tea house. Participating in a Japanese tea ceremony was the perfect way to end our day, allowing us to relax and reflect on our new memories in a truly tranquil setting.

Visiting Daio Wasabi Farm was an eye-opening experience. It’s a place where the love for nature’s beauty meets culinary creativity. If you ever find yourself near Matsumoto, don’t miss out on this hidden gem. Whether you’re a wasabi aficionado or just someone who appreciates the simplicity of rural beauty, Daio Wasabi Farm promises a day full of discovery and delight.