Experiencing Life in the Snow Country

Life in the snow country is a way of living in harmony with nature, moving together with the changing seasons. Here, you don’t just take part in activities—you step into a world nurtured by generations of snow country life. Walking through terraced rice fields, you can feel the centuries-long balance between people and nature. Foraging for spring mountain vegetables lets you experience the vibrant pulse of life brought by the melting snow.Time spent preparing traditional country dishes offers a glimpse into the warm wisdom passed down from grandmothers to grandchildren. The handcraft of wrapping sasadango carries the patience and kindness of the people who have lived here for generations.Each experience layers like a painting, gradually revealing the snow country’s unique beauty. The time spent here

Terraced Rice Field Trekking

Embark on a trekking journey through picturesque landscapes that capture the essence of “real Japan,” experiencing the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of this region. The terraced rice fields in Japan’s mountainous areas are not only visually stunning but also symbols of history and culture. Historical records reveal the diligence of local residents, who constructed these stepped fields in this heavy-snow region. As you walk along old paths through deep forests and distinctive cedar trees, you’ll encounter some of Japan’s most beautiful scenery. Along the way, you can observe the daily lives of farmers—such as rice planting and harvesting—pick wild plants growing by the paths, and notice traces of the animals that inhabit the satoyama (countryside). This experience offers a connection to the history, culture, and life of the snow country.
Available: May to November, until the first snowfall

Snow Country Local Cuisine Experience

In this hands-on cooking experience, local mums who have lived in the region for many years guide you in preparing simple yet deeply flavorful snow country dishes, using seasonal vegetables, wild mountain plants, and traditional techniques of fermentation and preservation. The flavors passed down through generations carry the warmth of family and the pride of living in this land. Sharing the meal together around the table, laughing and enjoying each bite, offers not only a chance to learn cooking but also a glimpse into the heart of snow country life.
Available: Year-round

Sasadango (Bamboo Leaf Dumpling) Making Experience

Sasadango, a traditional Niigata treat enjoyed during the summer, comes to life in this hands-on experience. You’ll start by kneading mugwort-infused dough from scratch and then, guided by local residents, wrap sweet bean paste in the dough, carefully enclose it in bamboo leaves, and tie it with string. Each step reflects the wisdom and warmth passed down through generations. As the dumplings steam, their comforting aroma fills the air, offering a taste of homegrown tradition. Making them with your own hands makes this experience uniquely satisfying—and the dumplings themselves become a special souvenir of your journey.
Available: Year-round

Immersing Yourself in Snow Country Life

Experiencing life in the snow country is never limited to a single activity. Walking through terraced rice fields, foraging for wild mountain vegetables, and making simple country dishes or sasadango reflect the enduring rhythm of life in this region. In addition, we offer opportunities to engage with local crafts and seasonal traditions, such as making straw sandals, weaving, and participating in rice farming and other agricultural activities. Each stitch, each stalk of rice, each thread carries the wisdom and care of generations. By taking part in these hands-on experiences, you gain a deeper appreciation of the richness of snow country life. The time you spend here is more than just an activity—it becomes part of the story of the snow country. We encourage you to explore all the experiences we offer.