Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Overview
Discover the charm of Obuse through art, history, and sake on this unique Hokusai-inspired Paint & Sip tour.
Starting at Obuse Station, enjoy a leisurely walk through the picturesque town before visiting the historic Matsubaya Sake Brewery for a guided tour and tasting of local sake (note: the legal drinking age in Japan is 20 years old).
Next, explore the Hokusai-kan Museum, home to masterpieces by the legendary ukiyo-e artist who spent his final years in Obuse.
The highlight of the tour is a guided Paint & Sip session, where you’ll create your own version of The Great Wave off Kanagawa while sipping sake made just steps away (note: on-alcoholic beverages also available).
Whether you're an art lover, sake fan, or curious traveler, this hands-on experience blends creativity, culture, and fun. The tour ends back at Obuse Station, leaving you with unforgettable memories and your own wave to take home.
Options
Meet at Nagano Station
Starting point: Nagano Station: Start your tour at Nagano Station instead of Obuse Station
Paint & Sip in Hokusai’s Town: Sake and Art Tour
What's included
Paint & Sip experience (drinks & snacks included)
Sake brewery tour and tasting
English-speaking guide (unlicensed)
Admission to Hokusai-kan
Meals and drinks (other than specified in the Include section)
Personal expenses
What to expect
Obuse-machi
40m
Wander through the charming streets of Obuse, guided by your expert. Uncover the secrets of Hokusai's inspiration and the town's rich history.
Hokusai-kan
50m · Admission ticket included
Dive into the world of Hokusai at this dedicated museum. Marvel at his ukiyo-e prints and original paintings, most notably the panels that adorn the ceiling of the Higashimachi and Kanmachi festival floats.
Matsubaya Honten
30m · Admission ticket included
Discover the heart of sake-making at Matsubaya Brewery. Tour the historic brewery and savor the delicate flavors of sake, a timeless treasure.
Garari
2h 30m · Admission ticket included
Channel your inner Hokusai as you sip local sake (non-alcoholic drinks available) and paint your own version of The Great Wave. A relaxed, artful experience inspired by Obuse’s rich culture.
Meeting and pickup
Meeting point
Your guide will be standing outside the station, holding a sign.
End point
Your guide will be standing outside the station, holding a sign.
Additional information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Not recommended for travelers over 75 years old. This tour does not allow strollers, so children who can walk on their own can participate. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.