Hokusai Museum, Lunch & Sake Walking Tour in Obuse, Nagano

Think of a Japanese woodblock print, and the Great Wave off Kanagawa will inevitably come to mind. The man behind the masterwork is Katsushika Hokusai, perhaps Japan's most famous ukiyo-e painter and printmaker. Apart from his renowned series Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji, this master left behind a rich and prolific legacy, some of which can be enjoyed in Obuse, a town midway between Nagano City and the Jigokudani Monkey Park. Hokusai spent time in Obuse under the patronage of a local merchant, Kozan Takai, and was charmed by the town's whimsical atmosphere. Take part in this walking tour of Obuse to learn about the fascinating artistic world of Hokusai. Upon arriving at Obuse, you will see what inspired the woodblock master: with chestnut tree-lined roads and quiet forests, the town is cozy and welcoming. In this idyllic setting, you will visit the Hokusai Museum, which houses many of his works, and another museum honoring his patron, Kozan Takai. You will try a sake-tasting experience and enjoy a local lunch, and then visit Ganshoin Temple, where Hokusai painted a picture of a phoenix that seems to be staring at you no matter where you stand, a testimony of his incredible skill. By the time the tour ends, you will have learned about the ukiyo-e master and his influences, and can continue exploring this town on your own! Itinerary: -Meet your host at Obuse Station and walk for a few minutes to reach the town center. -Walk down Chestnut Alley to the Kozan Takai Memorial Museum. The museum exhibits Kozan’s paintings and calligraphy works. -Visit the Hokusai Museum, where you will see a collection of paintings and woodblocks by Katsushika Hokusai. -Visit a local sake brewery and enjoy a sake-tasting experience. -Have lunch at a beautiful restaurant with an open kitchen. -Visit the Ganshoin Temple to see the 'Phoenix Glaring in All Directions', Hokusai’s painting of a phoenix on the temple ceiling. -The tour will finish at Obuse Station.