Japanese snack food makers Calbee Inc. will release their new potato chip line ‘Potato Deluxe’ on November 12 in Nagano Prefecture and Niigata Prefecture. Available in both mild salt and black pepper flavours, the chips are three times thicker than their regular cuts.
Calbee’s thickest chips to date, a packet of Potato Deluxe contains a heap of delicious double-fried chips that are cooked carefully to seal the full flavour. On the first bite they are nice and crunchy, and after that they retain their firm texture, never getting soggy.
The salt flavour is made with rock salt from Lorraine in France. It has a distinct refreshing taste to it that doesn’t take away from the original flavour of the potatoes, but rather enhances it.
The black pepper chips are laced with a beef flavour as well as another hidden relish: finely powdered miso. Its full flavour can be enjoyed in the aftertaste.
Calbee wanted to create a new kind of potato chip that its customers had never tried before. It took them around 10 months to produce them. They held test sales in February 2018 and received much praise from buyers and so decided to put them on the market.
These chips are available in Nagano Prefecture and Niigata Prefecture only, so if you see this exclusive pack be sure to pick them up!
Information
Potato Deluxe Mild Salt / Potato Deluxe Black Pepper
Price: RRP ¥140 (Tax Incldued)
Release Date: November 12, 2018
Sales Areas: Nagano Prefecture, Niigata Prefecture
*Not sold at convenience stores
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Zenkoji Temple is one of the most important and popular temples in Japan and one of Pure Land Buddhism. A new purin shop will open close by the temple. It will serve traditional style purin, a type of Japanese custard and caramel dessert, as well as being the first purin shop to have its own tearoom. It's located in an old oil house that has been around for 280 years since the Edo Period.
The shop has both a tearoom and tea house garden, offering a traditional Japanese space for people to relax and enjoy their purin. Their goal is to let locals and tourists experience tradition with a twist. The purin sold here uses carefully selected ingredients grown in the natural environment of Nagano. For example, the milk used―called Azumino Gyunyu―has a mellow and deep flavour to it. Customers can also look forward to drinking tea such as houjicha made by people with great knowledge and experience that has accumulated over the years. They also do their best to make the purin fresh to order. As of now there are 5 different expertly made flavours available, so be sure to try them all! ■Information Zenkoji Purin Address: 170 Higashimachi, Nagano-shi, Nagano Prefecture *5-minutes on foot from Zenkoji Temple Opening Hours (Shop): 10:00am-5:00pm Opening Hours (Tearoom): 12:00pm-4:00pm (Last Orders 3:30pm) Website: http://zenkoji-purin.com/ -
The city of Komoro in Nagano Prefecture is just an hour-and-a-half from Tokyo by train. The Komoro Castle Ruins, known today as Kaikoen, is a famous tourist location in Komoro, and it’s here that the Kaikoen Momiji Matsuri (Kaikoen Autumn Leaves Festival) will take place from October 20 to November 18.
The autumn leaves in Komoro arrive earlier than in Tokyo. They also cover a wide distance from an elevation of 600m up to 2,000m and are enjoyed for staying around for a long period of time. The ruins of Komoro Castle are the representative and most famous tourist hot spot of the city. From the end of October to the end of November, the area gives rise to a whole range of colourful leaves including maple, maidenhair, Japanese zelkova and more. The castle itself was selected as one of Japan’s 100 most famous and its gardens as one of the 100 historical parks of the country. It’s also famous as Japan’s only ana-jō, a castle which is located in a place lower than the jōkamachi which is the urban area that surrounds a feudal lord’s castle. If you’re arriving by car from Tokyo it will take two-and-a-half hours and if by train one-and-a-half. It’s also a 30-minute drive from Karuizawa. During the autumn season the city of Komoro bustles with tourists from both Nagano Prefecture and other prefectures. But it’s not just at Kaikoen where autumn arrives in October and November. All places around Komoro gleam with autumnal reds and yellows. Amongst the trees are the Japanese larches is which colour the mountains golden and breathe beauty into the area. On August 30, 2018 restrictions on mountain climbing in the area were eased. People were allowed to climb Mount Asama (Maekake-yama) which is famous for the yellow larches. You can also obtain a certificate proving you climbed the mountain at the Komoro tourist information office. The information office can provide in-depth information into Komoro during autumn-time. They also hand out two different tourist maps for free. One of them showcases 10 different hot springs and 8 water sources in Komoro while the other details the plantation in the area where you can enjoy the autumn colours and much on all-you-can-eat freshly picked apples. Also, as a side note, at the soba noodle restaurants in Komoro, you can enjoy “New Soba” made with buckwheat harvested in autumn which is said to be the most delicious time of all the seasons. Enjoy a wonderful time at the autumn leaves festival at Kaikoen where there will be lots of fun events happening. Information
Kaikoen Momiji Matsuri (Kaikoen Autumn Leaves Festival)
Running: October 20, 2018 – November 18, 2018
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10 Must Visit Tourist Spots in Karuizawa – Where the Reality TV Show on Netflix “Terrace House” Was Filmed
The town of Karuizawa in Nagano Prefecture has seen an increased in foreign visitors partly due to it being the filming location of Terrace House: Opening New Doors, a Japanese reality TV show available on Netflix which takes six strangers, men and women, and places them in a house to live together. In this article we have compiled a list of tourist hot spots in Karuizawa and around Nagano that appear in the show. Karuizawa
Suwa Grand Shrine This is the shrine the cast members go to as their first shrine visit of the year. It's located near the Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza a shopping area. The huge sacred tree there is enveloped by moss. It's a very mysterious place. During summer the shrines bustles with people there for the fireworks and festivals. It's an important shrine loved by locals as a cultural property.■Information Suwa Grand Shrine Address: 865 Kyukaruizawa Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture TEL: 0267-42-5551 Information: http://www.nagano-jinjacho.jp/shibu/03tousin/02kitasaku/2042.htm
Kumanokotai Shrine This is the shrine where member Shion prayed for Tsubasa's victory. The centre of the shrine sits on the border of Nagano Prefecture and Gunma Prefecture. It's known as a branch shrine of the three Kumano Sanzan shrines in Wakayama. The sacred Shina no Ki tree is a popular 'power spot' for marriage and good fortune. You can also see the shape of a heart depending on which angle you look at it from, so be sure to try finding it.■Information Kumanokotai Shrine Address: 1 Togemachi, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture TEL: 0267-42-5749 Website: http://www.geocities.jp/kumanokoutai/
Senga Falls Senga Falls is where Noah and Mayu went on a date together. You can relax your mind and body by heading on the "Seseragi no Michi" hiking course which follows the mountain stream. You're sure to feel healed not only by the waterfall but the surrounding lush greenery too.■Information Senga Falls Address: Senga Falls, Karuizawa-cho, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture TEL: 0267-42-5538 Information: http://www.town.karuizawa.lg.jp/www/contents/1001000000751/index.html
Kyukitazawa Ginza-dori This is where Taka and Seina went on a date. It's been a familiar tourist spot of Karuizawa since many years ago.There are many shops lining the street including those specialising in Karuizawa carving. You can also enjoy food like bread and jam, something which was taken on after foreign tourists started visiting for summer, as well as sausages and more. We recommend looking through the variety stores too.■Information Kyukitazawa Ginza-dori Address: 878 Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture TEL: 0267-42-1775 Website: http://karuizawa-ginza.org/map/
Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church The Shaw Memorial Church is where Shohei confessed his love to Seina. This beautiful chapel is hidden away in the peaceful forests of Karuizawa where the gorgeous scenery of all four seasons can be enjoyed. The sight of the building's magnificent stained glass will fill you with warmth. If you're interested in seeing it yourself then don't forget to book.■Information Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church Address: Kyu Karuizawa Hotel Otowa No Mori, Kyukaruizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture Website: http://www.hotel-otowanomori.co.jp/wedding/otowa_style/chapel.html
Karuizawa Livery Yard This is a horse riding club where Noah and Yui went on a horse riding date together. As well as being able to ride the horses, those who take a lesson there are also offered an optional plan for an additional fee to go walking in the forest. How does a horse ride in Japan sound?■Information Karuizawa Livery Yard Address: 271 Hotchi, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture Opening Hours: 10:00am-4:00pm (Bookings required) No Fixed Holidays. TEL: 0267-48-2020
Outside BASE The camp that everybody went to in the show is located here. It's a camping site hidden away in the forest with 14 cottages and villages that can house up to 45 people per day. If you're looking to spend a relaxing time out in nature then consider going here.■Information Outside BASE Address: 2032-2457 Kitakaruizawa, Naganohara, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture TEL: 0279-80-5061 Reservation TEL: 03-3306-4559 (10:00am-5:00pm / Closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays) Website: http://outsidebase.com/base/Nagano
Zenko-ji Temple Shion and Tsubasa visited this temple on one of their dates. The temple is a registered national treasure and famous tourist spot in Nagano Prefecture. It has been loved by locals and tourists since ancient times. The busy Nakamise Street is packed with food you can buy and eat while walking around. They also offer guides of the shrine grounds in multiple languages.■Information Zenko-ji Temple Address: Motoyoshichō-491 Nagano, Nagano Prefecture TEL: 026-234-3591 Website: https://www.zenkoji.jp/Komoro
Otomeko Park Shohei and Seina visit Otomeko Park during their date. The park is decked out with many public facilities including a cultural facility with a public hall and gym, a tennis court, a wild bird forest, and other forests you can walk around. The scenery is beautiful whatever season you visit.■Information Otomeko Park Address: 1275 Ko, Komoro, Nagano Prefecture TEL: 0267-23-8880 Website: http://www.city.komoro.lg.jp/category/institution/kouen/otomeko/Have you seen Terrace House yet? Whether you have or not, hopefully this list of tourist spots offers an incentive to visit and enjoy the sights of Karuizawa and Nagano.
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Starting February 1, 2023, visitors to Nagano will be able to experience an unforgettable winter experience at Hoshino Resorts KAI Alps. The Kamakura Footbath will invite guests to soak their feet in a warm bath as they sit in a traditional Japanese igloo while sipping local amazake and enjoying the snowy scenery.
Soak your Feet Inside a Hot Footbath Inside a Kamakura
During February when snowfall is the heaviest, these kamakura, or igloos, can be spotted in the hotel’s courtyard. A private footbath is available inside each structure, which will keep guests from experiencing the cold wind. According to many, having a cool body and warm feet is the perfect recipe for a good night’s sleep and good health. Taste Amazake from a Local Brewery
Kurazukuri Amazake is brewed at Hokuan Brewery in Omachi, Nagano. Made exclusively from home-grown, expertly polished sake rice, the sweet beverage has a delicate flavor similar to wagashi. Why not warm your body from the inside out with this traditional drink? Enjoy the Winter Landscape Illuminated by Bamboo Lights
Around each kamakura are a sea of bamboo lanterns, popular in the area. Guests can gaze out at the cold winter landscape beneath the awesome peaks of the Japanese Alps while pondering what the spring will bring. Information
Kamakura Footbath
Running: February 1 – 28, 2023
Price: ¥2,000 (Tax Included)
Reservations: https://hoshinoresorts.com/ja/hotels/kaialps/activities/9929/*Reservations are required by noon the day before.
Time Slots: 18:00-18:45 / 19:00-19:45 / 20:00-20:45Capacity: Up to 3 guests per session
*Must be staying at the hotel.
**Bookings may be canceled due to weather. -
Celebrating the 10th anniversary of her major label debut, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu is staying active in 2022. The artist will perform at this year’s Coachella, one of the largest music festivals in the United States, and released her first full-length album in three years ‘Candy Racer’ in October 2021. On January 16, Kyary embarked on the largest tour of her career, ‘Kyary Pamyu Pamyu 10th ANNIVERSARY JAPAN TOUR 2022 CANDY WAVE,’ which will see the singer performing 30 shows across Japan. In conjunction with the nationwide tour, the “LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project” was launched to energize Japan through the appeal of regional towns and cities, and has been attracting major attention. Kyary’s tour is scheduled to wrap in Niigata on March 27, and the details of her next collaboration have been revealed!
Hakkaisan, founded in 1922, is one of the most well-known sake breweries in Niigata Prefecture. Kyary will be collaborating with a special slightly sweet non-alcoholic Malted Rice Amazake made by the company. Amazake was extremely popular during the Edo Period as a drink to keep cool in the heat, so this is a perfect product to grab for the upcoming season. The special collaboration logo was inspired by Kyary’s 2014 hit Yumeno Hajima Ring Ring. The song is popular for graduation ceremonies with the theme of parting ways, making it appropriate for the current time, as graduation season in Japan is in late March. A collaborative T-shirt is also on sale featuring the new logo and the singer’s 10th-anniversary logo. The shirt is available on the LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project website for two weeks only. Information
Hakkaisan ‘Malted Rice Amazake’ (Niigata) x LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project Collaboration T-shirt
Where to Buy: LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project Online Shop
https://store-localpowerjapan.com/
Available: March 25 – April 7 at 23:59
Official Site: https://localpowerjapan.com -
Booking.com Japan has revealed its top four picks for the Japanese accommodations with the best outdoor baths and snow views! Zao Kokusai Hotel (Zao Onsen, Yamagata Prefecture)
Located 900 meters above sea level and surrounded by the gorgeous natural beauty of the Zao mountains, this resort has long been renowned for its spectacular view of seasonal scenery. During winter, guests can enjoy a fully spring-fed open-air bath while gazing at the snow-capped mountains. The milky white waters of the Zao Hot Springs have high sulfur content which will improve the texture of your skin. The resort also has a bath large enough to accommodate up to seven people at a time and a private bath for families or lovers. Midorinokaze Resort Kitayuzawa (Date, Hokkaido) The Midorinokaze Resort Kitayuzawa is surrounded by nature and contains one of the largest open-air baths in Japan, along with 20 unique fragrant baths for guests to enjoy. In winter, the surrounding trees seem to glisten with snow, and visitors are sure to find plenty of peace and relaxation while lounging beneath the grey skies. Akakura Kanko Hotel (Myoko, Niigata Prefecture) This highland resort sits on a 1,000-meter peak, offering unmatched views of Niigata Prefecture. The natural hot spring flows from the inside of Mt. Myoko, with healing waters perfect for soaking in during the cold winter months. The large baths are also equipped with a sauna and deck, and those wanting to view the scenery from their room can enjoy guest accommodations with private baths as well! Satoyama Jujo (Minamiuonuma, Niigata Prefecture) Winning a design award for its facilities, Satoyama Jujo has a different feel when compared to most hotels and ryokan. Booking.com recommends it for travelers looking for new experiences! In the open-air bath, visitors can relax while enjoying a panoramic view of Mt. Makihata, one of Japan’s 100 most famous peaks. Guests can also enjoy the starry skies at night. This is a perfect location for couples! Each season in Japan offers uniquely beautiful scenery. How would you like to enjoy winter in one of these luxurious baths? -
To commemorate the opening of the 60th Anniversary Sanrio Exhibition: The Beginning of Kawaii in Niigata, Hotel Nikko Niigata has also opened a collaboration cafe on the 31st-floor Panorama Lounge. The cafe will be open until April 10 and feature an adorable menu and incredible view! The Hotel Nikko x Sanrio Exhibition Collaboration Cafe will feature dishes, desserts, and drinks based on seven different Sanrio characters, including Hello Kitty. Each menu item comes with a random original coaster. Characters whose birthdays fall during the cafe period will be featured in special designs. From March 1 until March 11, a drink inspired by Cinnamoroll, whose birthday is on March 6, will be available.
Information
Hotel Nikko Niigata x Sanrio Exhibition Collaboration Cafe
Open: February 10 – April 10, 2022
Hours: 11:30-18:00 (Last Order at 17:00)
Address: Hotel Nikko Niigata 31F Befco Bakauke Observation Deck Panorama Lounge
Details: https://www.hotelnikkoniigata.jp/sys/news/detail/352 -
Want something to do at a ski resort but not a fan of skiing? No problem! Ishiuchi Maruyama Ski Resort in Niigata Prefecture has opened the new Snow Garden, a complex filled with cafes and activities held in transparent dome tents and terraces. Visitors can relax in an open space overlooking the gorgeous landscape without breaking a sweat. The Snow Village will be open until March 27, 2022.
Enjoy the panoramic view of the snow-covered Uonuma Plains and Niigata’s breathtaking mountains while enjoying a warm beverage and wonderful company. Information
Snow Garden
Open until March 27, 2022
Location: Ishiuchi Maruyama Ski Resort
Details: https://niigata-kankou.or.jp/blog/706
Official Site: https://niigata-kankou.or.jp/
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Calbee Potato has teamed up with garden soil giant Protoleaf for a unique new product! Potato Bag will allow customers to grow their own potatoes directly from a bag, and are currently on sale at home and garden centers in the Kyushu area.
The soil found in Potato Bag is made of light, easy-to-carry coconut peat and husk chips. Even if you have no experience in the garden, no problem--just pick a spot and water them! The soil can also be disposed of as burnable garbage after, so cleanup is simple. Potato Bag was created as a way to get young people interested in food production and creation. The product already contains all necessary fertilizer, and the potato seeds found within have been created and perfected by Calbee over the past decade. Information
Potato Bag
Where to Buy: Home and Garden Centers in the Kyushu Area
Calbee Potato: https://www.calbee-potato.co.jp
Protoleaf: https://protoleaf.co.jp