OZE & YUKIGUNI ODYSSEY: A Cultural and Natural Adventure

This circular tour takes you through the watersheds and mountain passes that divide eastern and western Japan. Along the way, you’ll discover how snowfall shapes a rich culture of food, crafts, and natural ecosystems. Snow nurtures traditional techniques such as weaving, snow-cellar preservation, and fermentation. In spring, melting snow feeds the land, bringing wild mountain vegetables and supporting rice planting. Summer offers refreshing river delights like ayu (sweetfish) and salmon, while autumn yields bountiful harvests. Throughout the year, snow gives life to nature and tradition— essential gifts from Japan’s snowy landscapes....See more