A Special Tofu-Making Experience in Nagano

Enjoy a rare chance to see a traditional tofu master at work and learn his craft

Take an exclusive look into the art of making tofu at a workshop deep in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture. At Sennen Tofu ("thousand-year tofu”), a small, family-run shop, you can learn how to make tofu or frozen tofu, a delicacy unique to these cold climes. The current master carries on the ancient tradition, using techniques inherited from his predecessors. Watch as soy milk is poured into a wooden box, wrapped in cotton cloth, and then pressed with heavy stones.

After a guided visit of the shop and an overview of the process under the master’s guidance, you'll have the chance to make tofu or frozen tofu on your own. Frozen tofu is a typical preserved food of the Suwa area, prepared by laying thick slices of the tofu outside overnight, when temperatures drop to -15 to -20°C. Frozen tofu will last far longer than fresh, and you're sure to enjoy the rich flavor. The tradition of frozen tofu started about 200 years ago in the rural mountain area as an attempt for farmers to create a source of income during the winter months.

If you are making frozen tofu and are staying in the area, you can freeze your tofu overnight and pick it up the following morning. Otherwise, it can be shipped to your future accommodations via refrigerated delivery service for an extra fee.

The tofu making workshop is held from March to June and September to December; the frozen tofu making workshop is held during the winter months, from December to February.

Access: From Tokyo Station, take the Chuo Line rapid train to Shinjuku Station (about 13 minutes), take the Azusa limited express train to Chino Station (about two hours four minutes), then take the Marchen Road Bus to the Tetsuzan stop (about 30 minutes). Sennen Tofu is about a 12-minute walk from the bus stop.

Tofu Experience (Chino Tourism Organization)