A study tour of traditional crafts

A full course dinner of creative cuisine at its best that incorporates many unique aspects of Yukiguni cuisine; plants and mushrooms foraged from the mountain slopes, fermented ingredients, vegetables stored under snow to bring out their flavors are just some of the local specialities. Cooking around the coals of an open hearth is a traditional technique that has been passed down through the generations at ryugon and it is used to perfectly grill the meat and fish. Each dish reveals something about the history or culture of Yukiguni and the wisdom it has taken to survive the long winters. Another source of pride of the area is the delicious local sake. These and locally produced wine are the perfect accompaniment to this feast.

A stay in ryugon is an experience in itself. The original buildings were constructed from traditional dwellings of the area and then the whole facility went through an innovative redesign. There are three types of room that all offer a different style and experience: the Villa Suite, the Classic, and the Private Villa. It is almost like staying in a museum and every guest should explore the buildings to learn their secrets. There is a POP GUIDE audio tour to help you learn about this fascinating hotel.

There are various artisan producers based in Tsubame Sanjo and the techniques found in this town are highly regarded throughout the world. At Gyokusendo copperware is shaped with intricately textured surfaces from a single sheet of copper. The knives and cutlery from Tadafusa are well-known, and the nail clippers from SUWADA have received many awards. A private taxi will take you around to ensure you take in all the town has to offer.

On the second day there is a change of pace and the chance to enjoy some time in your room with a boxed dinner. Choose from ryugon's original catering service menu with Japanese, Italian, or sushi options. After a relaxing dinner head over to the bar for a nightcap and some inspiring conversation. For some real local flavor try a glass of ryugon's home-made wildflower sake blended with flowers picked in the ryugon forest.

A stay in ryugon is an experience in itself. The original buildings were constructed from traditional dwellings of the area and then the whole facility went through an innovative redesign. There are three types of room that all offer a different style and experience: the Villa Suite, the Classic, and the Private Villa. It is almost like staying in a museum and every guest should explore the buildings to learn their secrets. There is a POP GUIDE audio tour to help you learn about this fascinating hotel.

Learn about the long history and traditions of weaving in the area with a tour around a textile workshop, and experience close-up the weaving in progress. The looms have been used for generations and are carefully looked after. The delicate work of the artisan weavers is fascinating to behold.

Hegi soba noodles are said to have originated in the Uonuma region of Niigata, and they have their roots in the textile industry. Hegi refers to the platter on which they are served and they are placed in a fashion similar to the movements of twisting and spinning the thread in weaving. This gives them a very pleasing and distinctive shape much like waves. The binding agent for the noodles is funori seaweed which was also traditionally used in weaving, and this gives them their signature smooth texture and unique flavor.