Looking for an unforgettable autumn experience in Japan? Join a guided mushroom-picking tour in Otari, Nagano — part of the stunning Hakuba Valley. As the forests turn golden and red, explore tranquil mountain trails deep in the forests of Nagano, learn to identify wild mushrooms, and enjoy the crisp alpine air. Just a car ride away from Hakuba’s famous ski resorts, this authentic nature activity is the perfect way to experience Japan’s autumn charm surrounded by breathtaking views of the Japanese Alps.

Our guide from Otari Nature School, Obi-san, began the tour with a fascinating introduction to mushrooms and their role in Japan’s natural ecosystem. Out of the 150,000 types of mushrooms found around the world, about 6,000 grow in Japan, 2,000 are officially recognized, and only around 100 are considered edible. He also explained the origin of the Japanese word for mushroom, kinoko—literally meaning “child of the tree.” Found near roots and thriving in the shade of forests, mushrooms truly are nature’s children of the trees.

After the briefing, Obi-san guided us deep into the autumn forests of Otari, located in the heart of the Hakuba Valley. Equipped with straw baskets tied around our waists, we hiked through the colorful woods, pushing through undergrowth and climbing gentle slopes in search of mushrooms. The experience was raw and immersive, we were deep in the forests with no other human in sight, surrounded by crisp mountain air and sounds of nature.

We discovered a fascinating variety of mushrooms, from delicate brown caps to the striking red tamago-taki (egg mushroom). Obi-san patiently explained each type—its texture, aroma, and how it tastes when cooked—while teaching us how to distinguish safe, edible mushrooms from poisonous ones.

Mushrooms were found everywhere, under roots, between fallen leaves, and along the slopes. We were given the freedom to forage on our own under gentle guidance — the experience was equal parts fun and educational. It was truly a rare, one-of-a-kind experience because few people ever get the chance to explore Japan’s forests so intimately, having a local expert on hand, learning to identify wild mushrooms, and foraging with your own hands in untouched alpine nature.

We were also briefed on the purpose of the tour at the beginning, which is to only pick the mushrooms you will eat, so you can later enjoy a freshly cooked lunch using the mushrooms you’ve gathered yourself. Participants collect only common, edible wild mushrooms to ensure sustainability and protect the forest ecosystem. To prevent over-harvesting, the mushrooms are used for lunch on-site and cannot be taken home.

After foraging, we sorted and washed our harvest, which was then transformed it into a warm, delcious meal. The mushrooms were prepared in a delicious nabe (hot pot) and made into crispy tempura, quintessential Japanese dishes made special with mushrooms we picked ourselves from the forest. Eating what we had gathered ourselves made the meal even more satisfying, and even those who normally dislike eating mushrooms would definitely enjoy the meal. The whole experience from gathering to eating was educational, delicious, and rewarding, and truly celebrated the season of autumn in Nagano.

Participation fees vary depending on the day of the week. On weekends and holidays, the tour costs 8,000 yen per adult (8,800 yen including tax) and 7,000 yen for elementary school students (7,700 yen including tax). On weekdays, the rate is 7,000 yen for adults (7,700 yen including tax) and 6,000 yen for elementary school students (6,600 yen including tax). The fee includes the guide service, freshly prepared mushroom lunch, insurance, and tax.

Otari Nature School, located in the Hakuba Valley of Nagano, offers a variety of immersive outdoor programs like mushroom picking throughout the year. In addition to the popular mushroom-picking tours, visitors can also experience wild vegetable (sansai) foraging and wild game hunting sessions in the winter in the forests of Otari. Each program is designed to help guests connect with nature while learning about Japan’s rich mountain ecosystem and traditional rural lifestyle.

The autumn mushroom hunting season takes place from October 1st to November 16th, 2025, when the forests of Otari are covered in brilliant shades of red and gold. A separate summer session is also available in July, offering a different but equally rewarding experience in the lush green season.

If you are staying at The Bears Lodge in Hakuba, they can help you organise and book activities like this across Hakuba Village, as well as provide complimentary transportation to these activities, ensuring your stay is both comfortable and filled with memorable local experiences. Whether you visit in autumn or summer, mushroom picking in Otari is a must-try activity for anyone looking to discover the beauty and seasonal flavors of Nagano.

Click here for the wesbite link to Otari Nature School (Japanese Only).

FAQs:

When is the mushroom picking season in Otari?

The autumn mushroom picking tour runs from October 1 to November 16, 2025. Some days may be unavailable, so please check the latest schedule in advance. A shorter “lite” program is also available from July 14 to 19, 2025, during the summer season.

What time does the tour start?

The main program runs from 8:30 AM to 1:15 PM, including a guided foraging session and mushroom lunch. The lite afternoon program runs from 1:50 PM to 4:40 PM, ending with a tasting of freshly made mushroom soup.

Where is the meeting point?

Participants meet at Ishizaka Forest Exploration Village (8457 Nakakodani Hei, Otari Village, Kitaazumi District, Nagano Prefecture 399-9421). If you cannot find it via car navigation, please use Google Maps. The meeting location may change depending on mushroom conditions; any updates will be shared in advance.

How much does the mushroom picking tour cost?

On weekends and holidays, participation is 8,000 yen per adult (8,800 yen with tax) and 7,000 yen for elementary students (7,700 yen with tax). Weekday rates are 7,000 yen for adults (7,700 yen with tax) and 6,000 yen for children (6,600 yen with tax). The fee includes a professional guide, mushroom lunch, insurance, and tax. The lite program is 4,500–5,500 yen depending on day and age group.

Are there discounts?

Guests staying at Ishizaka Forest Exploration Village receive discounts: 500 yen off per person for tent sites, 700 yen off for Bungalow Type B, and 1,000 yen off for Bungalow Type A. The discount is refunded on-site after advance payment.

Who can join the tour?

The tour is open to participants from fourth grade to 69 years old who are in good health and can walk about 2.5 hours in unpaved mountain terrain. Those with heart conditions or who are pregnant cannot participate. Up to nine people can join per session, with a minimum of two. Solo participants may join if there is space within one week of the tour date.

What should I wear or bring?

Wear long sleeves and pants that you don’t mind getting dirty, and bring gloves, rainwear, and a 500ml drink. Boots are required—rentals are available for 300 yen per pair with advance reservation. Hiking shoes are not suitable. Please ensure you have appropriate clothing for safety reasons.

Can guides speak English?

Guides speak only Japanese, but the activity is highly visual and easy to follow. Non-Japanese speakers can still enjoy the tour with basic understanding or by joining with a bilingual companion.