Karuizawa Fermentation Festival: A Celebration of Tradition and Health
The Karuizawa Marriott Hotel, located in the beautiful mountainous region of Nagano, Japan, will be hosting a unique celebration of food culture and health with the "Karuizawa Fermentation Festival" from June 20 to June 22, 2025. This event, coordinated in collaboration with the Fermentation Valley NAGANO, will showcase the rich heritage of fermentation in a region known for its health and longevity.
Exploring the Rich Fermentation Culture
Nagano Prefecture is renowned for its fermented foods, a cultural cornerstone that has benefits for both health and longevity. The festival invites guests to explore various aspects of fermentation through hands-on experiences, workshops, and educational talks. Over 20 manufacturers specializing in fermentation will display their products, allowing visitors to taste and learn about everything from traditional miso to modern cheese innovations, combining local and international techniques.
Throughout the three-day event, attendees can participate in a variety of workshops suitable for all ages, ranging from creating their own fermented drinks to enjoying unique pairings of sake, nozawana (Japanese pickled mustard leaf), and artisanal cheese. There will also be engaging talks led by experts in the field, discussing the benefits of fermentation and how it contributes to a healthy lifestyle.
Experience Unique Foods and Drinks
During the festival, guests can indulge in exclusive dishes at the hotel’s restaurant, such as a delectable fermentation plate that highlights local cheeses, pickles, and cured meats, artfully presented to tantalize both the eyes and the palate. Refreshing fermented drinks will also be offered, featuring local fruits and amazake (sweet fermented rice drink) crafted for a vibrant summer experience.
The ambiance of Karuizawa, a long-popular summer retreat for foreigners since the Meiji period, will serve as a picturesque backdrop for guests to unwind and immerse themselves in the depth of Nagano's fermentation culture. It promises to be an unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors.
Fermentation Festival Highlights
The festival will feature:
- June 20: "Fermented Drinks for Beauty and Gut Health"
- June 21: "The Fermentation Trio: Pairing Sake, Nozawana and Cheese"
- June 22: "Family-Friendly Fermentation Recipes with Hotel Chefs"
- June 20: "Achieving Natural Beauty through Fermentation"
- June 21: "Understanding Miso: A Culinary Education on Fermentation"
- June 22: "The Secrets Behind Nagano’s Longevity and Its Connection to Fermentation"
Attendance and Participation
The festival is free to attend, and both hotel guests and outside visitors are welcomed. Pre-registration is required for participation in specific events. Due to limited capacity, early booking is recommended to secure a spot, as participation in workshops is limited to 15 individuals per session.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Culinary Journey
The relationship between the Karuizawa Marriott Hotel and the Fermentation Valley NAGANO marks a significant step in promoting the region’s treasured fermentation heritage. The event aims to educate participants about fermentation while providing a fun and engaging environment for all.
Experience the diversity of fermented foods, witness live demonstrations, and savor unique taste pairings. Join us at the Karuizawa Marriott Hotel to celebrate and appreciate the beauty of fermentation, where innovation meets tradition in every bite.
For more details or to reserve your place, please visit the
Karuizawa Marriott Hotel official website.
We look forward to welcoming you to this spectacular event where food, culture, and community come together in harmony.