Make Oyaki Dumplings & Walk Around Zenkoji Temple in Nagano

Discover the captivating cultural heritage of Nagano through a delightful tour that combines making traditional Oyaki dumplings and exploring the historic Zenkoji Temple. Under the guidance of a local expert, you will craft these savory and sweet dumplings from scratch before indulging in a tasty lunch and soba tea. The group will then stroll through the stunning temple grounds, uncovering the significance of this ancient site known for its giant Buddha statue. What surprises await as you uncover the rich traditions of Nagano?

Good To Know

• Participants learn to make traditional Oyaki dumplings with guidance from a local expert, including dough kneading and filling preparation.
• Tour includes visiting the significant Zenkoji Temple, a 7th-century Buddhist site known for its giant Buddha statue and intricate architecture.
• Experience is led by an English-speaking guide who provides insights and context throughout the visit and captures high-quality photographs.
• The 5-hour tour includes a tasty lunch, soba tea, and is limited to 15 participants for an immersive cultural experience.
• Moderate fitness level is required, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible, but the meeting point is near public transportation.

Overview of the Experience

The experience begins at 12:40 pm and takes travelers on a journey to make traditional Oyaki dumplings and explore the historic Zenkoji Temple in Nagano, Japan.

This small-group activity, limited to 15 participants, provides an immersive cultural experience. The 5-hour tour includes a tasty lunch, soba tea, and a meal for infants.

An English-speaking guide leads the way, capturing high-quality photographs throughout. Transportation to the meeting point is included.

Moderate fitness is required, and the experience isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This experience includes a tasty lunch, soba tea, and a meal for infants. An English-speaking guide will lead the group and capture high-quality photographs throughout the day.

Extra drinks and food are available for purchase. The transportation fee to the meeting point is also included.

However, this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions. A moderate fitness level is required, and walking shoes are recommended.

Late arrivals can’t extend the tour.

Meeting and End Points

The meeting point for this experience is Starbucks Coffee – MIDORI Nagano, located at 1-chōme-22-6 Minamichitose, Nagano, 380-8543, Japan.

Travelers will gather at this meeting point to begin the activity. At the end of the experience, you will return to the same meeting point where the activity started.

The tour ends back at this location. Accessibility-wise, this meeting point isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation.

Travelers should arrive on time, as late arrivals can’t extend the tour duration.

Health and Accessibility Information

Travelers should note that this experience isn’t wheelchair accessible.

However, it’s located near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps during the tour. Those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions should avoid this activity.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as there will be walking involved. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Late arrivals won’t be able to extend the tour. This experience is suitable for those who can comfortably walk and stand for the duration of the activity.

Exploring Oyaki Dumplings

Although Oyaki dumplings are a local specialty in Nagano, their delicious savory and sweet fillings make them a treat worth discovering for all visitors.

Traditionally steamed or roasted, these bite-sized dumplings feature a variety of fillings, from savory pork and vegetables to sweet red bean paste.

Participants in this activity will learn the art of making Oyaki dumplings from scratch, kneading the dough, preparing the fillings, and shaping the dumplings.

With guidance from a local expert, travelers will gain an authentic taste of Nagano’s culinary heritage and leave with newfound dumpling-making skills.

Walking Around Zenkoji Temple

After learning the art of making traditional Oyaki dumplings, you will head to the historic Zenkoji Temple, one of the most significant Buddhist sites in Japan. Zenkoji dates back to the 7th century and is renowned for its giant Buddha statue and intricate architecture. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, visit the inner sanctuary, and witness the daily rituals. To enhance the experience, the tour includes:

Feature	Description
Guided Tour	An English-speaking guide provides insights and context.
Photography	High-quality photos are taken throughout the visit.
Accessibility	The temple is near public transportation.

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Photographic Memories

Throughout the experience, an English-speaking guide captures high-quality photographs to commemorate the special occasion.

Travelers can enjoy the beautiful imagery as mementos of their time making traditional Oyaki dumplings and exploring the historic Zenkoji Temple. The guide’s photographs document the hands-on cooking experience, the serene temple grounds, and the smiling faces of the group.

Travelers receive these photographs as part of the tour package, ensuring they can relive the memories long after the experience has ended. With these professional-quality photos, the Nagano adventure is preserved for years to come.

Reviews and Host Response

Travelers have awarded the Oyaki dumplings and Zenkoji Temple experience a stellar 5.0 rating based on a single review. The reviewer praised the knowledgeable and flexible guide, describing the experience as "tons of fun" and becoming "lovers of roasted Oyaki dumplings." The host responded with gratitude, noting they "really enjoyed talking to each one" of the travelers and thanking them.

Review Highlights	Host Response
"Great guide — knowledgeable and flexible."	"Very kind & nice family!"
"Tons of fun. We are now all lovers of roasted Oyaki dumplings."	"I really enjoyed talking to each one of them."
"Thank you so much!"

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Oyaki Dumplings Available?

While the provided information doesn’t mention vegetarian or gluten-free options, it’s worth asking the host about any dietary accommodations they can make. They seem flexible and eager to provide a great experience for all travelers.

Can Participants Take Part in the Cooking Process?

Yes, participants can actively take part in the cooking process of the oyaki dumplings. The experience allows travelers to get hands-on and learn how to make these traditional Japanese dumplings under the guidance of the English-speaking host.

What Is the Dress Code for the Zenkoji Temple Visit?

The dress code for the Zenkoji Temple visit is casual. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes, as there’s moderate walking involved. Modest attire that covers shoulders and knees is recommended out of respect for the religious site.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography Inside the Temple?

Photography is generally allowed inside Zenkoji Temple, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting other worshippers. Avoid using flash and tripods, and check for any posted restrictions before taking photos.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. While the core activities are set, the English-speaking guide is flexible and accommodating, allowing travelers to tailor the experience to their interests within the tour’s structure.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Nagano’s cultural heritage by crafting traditional Oyaki dumplings and discovering the historic Zenkoji Temple. This enriching experience allows you to indulge in local cuisine, explore a renowned Buddhist site, and create lasting memories. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with the region’s rich traditions on this engaging tour.