Orchard town, Matsukawa town

Matsukawa is a picturesque orchard town embraced by the Central and Southern Alps, in the southernmost part of Nagano Prefecture.

On the western side, the slow erosion of mountain streams has carved the foothills of the Central Alps into wide terraces. Upon this natural staircase, hundreds of orchards stretch in all directions as far as the eye can see. For over a century, generations of farmers have toiled the land so it could grow the finest fruit.

On the eastern side, tiny hamlets are scattered in the deep mountainous area underneath the Southern Alps. The villagers live in harmony with nature, caring for the woods and receiving firewood, wild vegetables, and mushrooms in return.

At the bottom of the valley, rice is grown along the banks of the Tenryu River. In spring and autumn, the town’s temples and shrines are livened by colorful festivals and stunning lion dances.

In Matsukawa, the beauty of nature and man’s ingenuity have met to create a unique scenery that local farmers have been nurturing year after year for the sake of future generations.

What is Orchard Tourism?

We cannot talk about Matsukawa without talking about its orchards.

As soon as you enter the town, you are surrounded by myriad trees ripe with fruit. Apples and Japanese pears, but also cherries, blueberries, peaches, plums, prunes, and grapes.

Despite a modest population of about 12,000 people, the town boasts over 500 family-run orchards, many of which were founded more than 100 years ago.

“Orchard Tourism” began in 2022, in collaboration with the town’s farmers, to offer unique gastronomic experiences centered around our orchards and their produce.