#Japan #Karuizawa #Nagano Prefecture #Karuizawa Marriott #Fermentation Valley NAGANO

Embrace the Vibrant Fermentation Culture at the 2nd Karuizawa Fermentation Festival

The Karuizawa Marriott Hotel, located in the scenic Nagano Prefecture, is set to host the 2nd Karuizawa Fermentation Festival from June 19 to June 21, 2026. This event marks a collaborative effort with eight fermentation food organizations and businesses in the region, collectively known as Fermentation Valley NAGANO. Guests can immerse themselves in the deep-rooted fermentation culture of Nagano, known for its health and longevity.

A Celebration of Health and Flavor

This year's festival embraces the theme "Health and Longevity through Fermentation," inviting attendees to know, taste, and experience the rich fermentation heritage of the area. During the festival, participants will have the chance to engage with around 20 local fermentation producers, explore hands-on workshops, enjoy informative lectures by fermentation specialists, and savor a wide variety of delicious foods. With activities tailored for both children and adults, this event promises to be educational, fun, and a perfect opportunity to learn about healthy eating habits rooted in local culture.

Attendees can expect to find not only traditional products like Shinshu Miso, but also innovative items that incorporate foreign fermentation techniques adapted to Japanese styles, including cheese.

Unique Culinary Experiences

The hotel's restaurant will showcase flavor-packed dishes, including a Fermentation Plate featuring locally sourced cheese, pickles, and prosciutto. Additionally, guests can enjoy refreshing fermentation mocktails inspired by the lush greenery of early summer in Karuizawa, made with locally sourced fruits and amazake. It’s a unique culinary journey that harmonizes the natural beauty of Karuizawa with an exquisite fermentation experience.

Attendees are encouraged to enjoy this special occasion, experiencing Nagano's rich fermentation culture that has been passed down through generations.

Festival Attractions

The festival will present various exhibitors, including:

• - Sake: Ohsawa Sake Brewery
• - Beer & Cider: Yaho Brewing, Kamoshika Cider Brewery
• - Wine: Karuizawa Unwineries, Villa Dest Garden Farm
• - Cheese: Atelier de Fromage, Boscaiso Cheese Lab
• - Pickles: Kurumaya, Yamahai
• - Miso and Soy Sauce: Suya Gyu, Izumiya Shoten
• - Natto & Bread: Asama Natto Factory, Brange Asano
• - Coffee: Mikado Coffee
• - Fermentation Plate & Mocktails: Karuizawa Marriott Hotel

Engaging Workshops & Talks

On June 20 and June 21, guests can participate in interactive workshops such as:
1. "Home Enjoyment: Elevated Fermentation Recipes by Hotel Chefs" (Karuizawa Marriott Hotel)
2. "The Secret to Longevity in Nagano: The Role of Fermented Foods" (Fermentation Valley NAGANO)
3. "An Emotional Experience: Cheese & Whey for Health" (Fermentation Valley NAGANO)
4. "Balanced Nutrition: A Retreat Through Fermentation" (Karuizawa Marriott Hotel)

Event Details

• - Dates: June 19 (Fri) - June 21 (Sun), 2026
• - Time: 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM
• - Workshops: Held at 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM, with a capacity of 15 participants per session (reservation required)
• - Location: Karuizawa Marriott Hotel
• - Admission: Free for external guests; we encourage the use of public transportation.

Through this festival, the Karuizawa Marriott Hotel aims to provide guests with meaningful experiences that shed light on the unique fermentation culture of Nagano, ensuring participants enjoy a moment of tranquility for both body and soul in the midst of Karuizawa's stunning natural surroundings.

Voices from the Organizers

Kanataro Ohira, General Manager of Karuizawa Marriott Hotel, expresses excitement about welcoming guests to embrace Nagano's fermentation culture.

Aoki Tokio, president of Fermentation Valley NAGANO, highlights the collaborative efforts of eight organizations to promote the importance of fermentation in the local diet and health.

The festival aims to strengthen the branding of Nagano as a state of longevity renowned for its fermentation, sharing its rich food culture and history with both residents and visitors alike.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to dive into the captivating world of fermentation at the 2nd Karuizawa Fermentation Festival!