A Foodie Guide to Japan’s Nasu Highlands
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Nestled in the lush landscapes of Tochigi Prefecture, just 70-minutes via Shinkansen from Tokyo, the Nasu Highlands offers more than just breathtaking scenery and relaxing onsens – it’s also a hidden paradise for food lovers.
Home to a variety of local specialities nurtured by the mountains and clear streams, from cheese crafted from locally sourced milk to Japanese craft beer and organic sake, the Nasu Highlands are bursting with flavours waiting to be explored.
Here are some of the best foodie spots in the region to check out.
Savour Tochigi Wagyu at Watanabe Farm
The very first farm to become a designated producer of Tochigi Wagyu in 1988, Watanabe Farm is a celebrated destination in the Nasu Highlands, embodying the region’s rich agricultural heritage and commitment to high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. Nestled amidst the rolling pastures of the Nasu Highlands, this family-run farm is renowned for its premium Wagyu beef, raised with meticulous care in the area’s pristine natural environment. Thanks to the cool climate, fresh mountain air and pure spring water, the cattle here thrive, resulting in exceptionally tender and flavourful meat that is sought after by gourmet enthusiasts across Japan. Pay a visit to the farm’s on-site restaurant for expertly prepared Wagyu beef dishes from sizzling steaks to rich, umami-packed sukiyaki and shabu-shabu, all highlighting the meat’s delicate marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The restaurant’s rustic yet refined setting, with panoramic views of the surrounding highlands, enhances the farm’s connection to nature and the land.
Indulge in cheese-based delights at Cheese Garden Nasu Honten
One of the largest dairy producers in Japan, second only to Hokkaido, the Nasu Highlands region in Tochigi Prefecture is known for its cheese. Located amidst the scenic landscapes of the Nasu Highlands, Cheese Garden Nasu Honten is a renowned confectionery shop and cafe celebrated for its array of dairy products. Indulge in a variety of cheese-based treats, from soft serve to their famous Goyotei Cheesecake, all made locally with the finest ingredients and a perfect balance of rich yet delicate flavours.
Enjoy Japanese craft beer at Nasu Kogen Beer
Nasu Kogen Beer put Nasu on the map with its craft beer brewed locally with techniques learnt from German beer breweries. Founded in 1996 by a furniture-making family, Nasu Kogen Beer takes advantage of the region’s pristine water sourced from the Nasu mountain range to produce crisp and refreshing flavours that pair perfectly with the region’s gourmet offerings. The brewery produces a variety of styles, including a smooth and malty Amber Ale, a crisp Pilsner and a robust Scottish Ale, each designed to complement different palates and dining experiences. Visitors can stop by the brewery’s taproom and restaurant to enjoy freshly brewed beer while taking in the stunning highland scenery.
Immerse in agricultural heritage at the Senbonmatsu Farm
Established in 1893, the Senbonmatsu Farm is a historic and beloved agricultural destination in the Nasu Highlands, offering visitors an insight into the region’s rich dairy and farming heritage. Renowned for its fresh, high-quality milk, premium dairy products and family-friendly atmosphere, the farm is a must-visit for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Beyond its dairy delights, Senbonmatsu Farm provides a variety of hands-on experiences that immerse visitors in its natural charm. Here, guests can interact with farm animals, enjoy fresh farm-to-table meals featuring local ingredients and savour one of the farm’s highlights – its creamy, freshly churned soft-serve ice cream, made from milk straight from the farm’s own cows.
Go behind-the-scenes into sake making at the Tentaka Sake Brewery
Renowned for its commitment to using only the finest local ingredients – pure spring water from the Nasu Highlands and high-quality rice from the local rice fields – the family-run Tentake Sake Brewery was established in 1914 and is a celebrated sake brewery in the heart of the Tochigi Prefecture. Thanks to this dedication, the brewery is a proud producer of premium junmai (pure rice) sake, known for its crisp, clean flavours that reflect the pristine natural environment of the region. As one of Japan’s few certified organic sake breweries, Tentaka embraces a philosophy of “takane no hana” (striving for the highest peak), ensuring that every bottle represents the pinnacle of quality and purity. From smooth and aromatic varieties to bold, full-bodied brews, Tentaka’s sake pairs beautifully with both traditional Japanese cuisine and modern dishes. Visitors have the opportunity to go behind-the-scenes and immerse themselves in the sake-making process through guided brewery tours which showcase the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into every bottle.
Where to Stay:
The Nasu Highlands’ area is dotted with traditional onsen ryokan (Japanese inns) where travellers can spend the night, enjoy a relaxing onsen bath and indulge in traditional Japanese kaiseki (multi-course meal) dining. With options ranging from extremely traditional such as Itamuro Onsen Daikokuya to the likes of Nasu Bettei Kai which feature a more modern design, visitors will be spoilt for choice.
About Nasu Highlands:
Nasu Highlands, located in Tochigi prefecture, is a picturesque region known for its natural beauty, hot springs and cultural attractions. Located in the northern part of the prefecture, Nasu offers a serene escape with its lush landscapes, including the Nasu Highlands, which are perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. The area is renowned for its onsen (hot spring) resorts, providing a relaxing retreat for visitors. Nasu is also home to the Nasu Imperial Villa and historical sites like the Nasu Shrine, which offer a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Additionally, family-friendly attractions such as the Nasu Animal Kingdom and Nasu Highland Park make it an ideal destination for travellers of all ages.
For further information on the areas that make up the Nasu Highlands, please visit Nasu Town | Nasushiobara City | Otawara City
