Iida,
Iida is a city located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its picturesque countryside, surrounded by mountains and lush greenery. The city has a rich history dating back to the Edo period, with traditional buildings and cultural landmarks scattered throughout the area.
Iida is also famous for its delicious local cuisine, such as soba noodles and fruit orchards offering seasonal delights.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "おはよう" - Good morning
- "こんばんは" - Good evening
- "さようなら" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Hiking and Local Cuisine
morning:Start your day with a refreshing hike in the Iida Valley, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful waterfalls. Make sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery. After the hike, head to Wappameshi Yamamoto for a delicious bowl of steaming hot wappameshi, a local specialty made with rice and seasonal vegetables.
afternoon:Visit the Iida City Museum to learn about the region's history and culture. Explore the exhibits showcasing traditional crafts and artifacts. Then, take a stroll through the Iida Nagano Alps Museum and immerse yourself in the art and nature of the Alps.
evening:For a delightful evening, head to the Suyama Sake Brewery to sample a variety of local sake and learn about the brewing process. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the sake paired with some delectable local snacks.
Cultural Exploration and Relaxation
morning:Begin your day with a visit to the Iida Folk Museum to discover the traditional lifestyle of the local people. Marvel at the fascinating exhibits and artifacts showcasing local crafts and customs. Before heading for the next activity, indulge in a breakfast of freshly made oyaki at Oyaki Dokoro Tamaki, a delightful local spot.
afternoon:Spend the afternoon at the beautiful Usuzumi Park, where you can relax amidst stunning cherry blossoms or colorful autumn foliage, depending on the season. Take a leisurely walk around the park and capture picturesque moments. Later, visit the Meijimura Open Air Museum to explore a collection of preserved historical buildings.
evening:For a perfect end to the day, unwind at the Yonako Onsen, where you can soak in the healing thermal waters and release any lingering tension. Appreciate the serene and peaceful ambiance of this traditional hot spring.
Outdoor Adventure and Local Delicacies
morning:Embark on an exhilarating mountain biking adventure through the scenic trails of the Tsukimi Plateau. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and beautiful views as you navigate the well-maintained paths. After the thrilling ride, treat yourself to a hearty breakfast at Café de Plage, offering a menu featuring local and organic ingredients.
afternoon:Take a refreshing walk through the serene forest trails of the Tateshina and Tsukimi Highlands, breathing in the crisp mountain air and surrounding natural beauty. As part of the walk, make a stop at one of the local orchards to sample the famous Iida apples and learn about the cultivation process.
evening:Experience a delightful evening at the Tateshina Wine Festa, where you can savor a variety of locally produced wines paired with gourmet delicacies. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and stunning vineyard views while indulging in the flavors of the region.
Historic Exploration and Local Eats
morning:Begin your day with a visit to the historic Kaikoen Garden, renowned for its picturesque landscape and traditional architecture. Take a leisurely walk around the garden and admire the seasonal beauty of the carefully maintained grounds. Before continuing, enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at Komachiya, known for its delectable traditional Japanese pastries and refreshments.
afternoon:Explore the fascinating Nagano Toy Museum, home to a diverse collection of vintage and contemporary toys that will appeal to visitors of all ages. Immerse yourself in the nostalgia and playfulness of the exhibits before heading to the Yamabe Winery for a wine tasting experience amidst stunning vineyards and mountain views.
evening:For a memorable evening, visit the Iida Yataimura, a lively food district where you can sample an array of local delicacies and street food specialties. Explore the bustling alleys and savor the vibrant culinary scene while mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Iida Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Iida Soba
A buckwheat noodle dish unique to the region, usually served cold with a dipping sauce or hot in a savory broth. Recommended place to try: Soba restaurant along the Nakase River.
Must-Try!
Hoba Miso
A dish of miso-marinated local mushrooms, tofu, and vegetables grilled on a magnolia leaf. Must-try at a traditional local restaurant like Hoba Misotei.
Sansai Tempura
For a taste of the mountains, try wild mountain vegetable tempura, available at local eateries and ryokan in the area.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Iida Morning Market
A lively market offering fresh local produce, snacks, and unique food finds. Sample freshly made onigiri (rice balls), yakisoba (stir-fried noodles), and local pickles.
Obuse Street Food Stalls
Explore the street food stalls featuring local delicacies such as oyaki (filled dumplings), dango (rice dumplings), and grilled mochi.
Pet sitters in Iida
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!