Netty's Moonlit Stories

Discovering the Magic of Daio Wasabi Farm

Tucked away in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, Azumino is a hidden gem that feels like stepping into a serene postcard. With its stunning views of the Northern Alps, this charming city offers more than just natural beauty, it’s a paradise for food lovers and culture seekers. Famous for its wasabi farms, Azumino’s cool, pure streams provide the perfect environment for this delicate plant, making it a must-visit for those eager to try something unique.

In this first part of my blog, I’ll dive into the world of Azumino’s wasabi farms and explore some of the local dishes you won’t want to miss. Beyond wasabi, the region is also known for its fresh vegetables, fruits, and dairy products, each offering a taste of the land’s bountiful harvest. Whether it’s the refreshing wasabi-flavored ice cream or a hearty bowl of local soba noodles, every dish feels like a direct connection to the natural beauty of Azumino.

Ready to uncover a side of Japan that’s both peaceful and full of flavor? Stay tuned for the next part, where I’ll share more about this fascinating region!

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Daio Wasabi Farm.

When you think of wasabi, you might picture the tiny, spicy dollop served with sushi. But at Daio Wasabi Farm in Azumino, wasabi is much more than just a condiment, it’s a whole experience. This massive farm, one of Japan’s largest, is set against the stunning backdrop of the Northern Alps, where nature and tradition come together beautifully. Walking through the lush green fields, you’ll see wasabi plants thriving in cold, clear streams. And if you’re lucky, you might even get a taste of this famous plant in everything from wasabi ice cream to fresh wasabi dishes. It’s a must-see spot for anyone visiting Azumino, offering a unique glimpse into the world of Japan’s most iconic and flavorful crop.

I arrived around noon, greeted by the calming sounds of flowing stream water. Spring was just starting to show its colors, and the farm felt like the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. As I entered, my eyes were immediately drawn to a shop selling wasabi soft-serve ice cream. There were a few options, but the one that caught my eye was the Wasabi Soft-Serve with a touch of gold leaf. It was too tempting to resist, even though it was a little more expensive than the others. I was excited. I mean, who wouldn’t be, right? A bit of gold on wasabi ice cream? How could I not give it a try?

When I finally held it in my hands, my heart was pounding in anticipation. I was ready for that strong wasabi punch, but to my surprise, the flavor was perfectly balanced. The ice cream was creamy and smooth, with just the right amount of wasabi kick, not the fiery kind you get with sushi, but a refreshing tingle that left me wanting more. And then, as I was happily indulging, I remembered, since I’d gone for the fancier version, my ice cream came with a tiny dollop of fresh wasabi on top.

Let’s just say that fresh wasabi is a whole different level of intensity compared to the store-bought stuff. I was cruising along, enjoying my ice cream, when suddenly… the heat hit. My eyes started watering uncontrollably, and for a moment, I wasn’t sure whether to laugh or cry. I probably looked like a mess, but hey, at least I had a delicious story to tell. The combination of sweet, creamy ice cream with that unexpected wasabi kick is an experience I won’t forget anytime soon. If you’re ever at Daio Wasabi Farm, don’t skip the wasabi soft-serve. You’ll get a treat that’s just as fun as it is flavorful!

After enjoying my ice cream, I found myself wandering around the area, exploring the farm.

As I strolled along, something caught my eye—a watermill. But this wasn’t just any watermill. It was the one from Akira Kurosawa’s Dreams, one of my all-time favorite movies. I couldn’t believe it! To anyone who didn’t know the reference, it probably seemed like just an ordinary watermill, but to me, it was breathtaking. It immediately took me back to the hauntingly beautiful scene in The Watermill segment of the film. If you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend it. It’s one of those films that sticks with you long after the credits roll, and discovering this watermill felt like stepping into a dream.

After finishing my walk around the farm and taking in all the beautiful sights, I decided to check out the souvenir shop. Inside, I found fresh wasabi—both small and large roots, each with varying prices depending on their size. It was a bit pricey, but I could understand why. Wasabi farming isn’t easy, and the maintenance costs are high, so the price tag makes sense.

Fun fact: Wasabi is actually really good for your health, and you can learn more about its benefits at a small museum near the gate. If you have the time, I highly recommend stopping by. it’s a great little stop! In the shop, there were also a variety of other wasabi products. I couldn’t resist picking up some wasabi soup, dressing, and snacks. Let me tell you, they were all delicious and definitely worth the splurge.

All in all, my visit to Daio Wasabi Farm was an unforgettable experience. From the stunning views of the Northern Alps to the unique flavors of wasabi-infused treats, it’s a place where nature, culture, and a bit of adventure come together in the most delightful way. Whether you’re a wasabi enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience, this farm is definitely worth a visit. I’m already looking forward to going back and exploring more of what Azumino has to offer!