Matsuda

Matsuda

In Kanagawa Prefecture's mountainous western region is the town of Matsuda which actually sits within the Tanzawa mountains. Due to the rich nature in the area some of the town's top attractions are fishing in the Sakawa River, camping, hiking, golf and some hot springs famous for their therapeutic properties and perfect for resting after a day rambling in Matsuda's beautiful nature. Matsuda is also renowned for its cultivation of tangerines and sweet potatoes making these goodies perfect for souvenirs.

Due to the area's mountainous location, it's unsurprising to discover that the water is delicious and pure. The local nihonshu (Japanese rice wine) is revered and visitors rush to the area's popular Nakazawa Sake Brewery which was established in 1825. The brewery uses subsoil water from the local mountains which gives the rice wine a silky and smooth texture and mild flavor. You can take brewery tours during the off-season between May and October, when no sake production is taking place.