Nagano snow dome dining at Restaurant Kamakura Village

Looking for a truly unique winter experience in Japan? At Restaurant Kamakura Village in Nagano, you can enjoy a hot meal inside a real snow dome - or kamakura - surrounded by the pristine landscapes of Iiyama.

Discover Kamakura Village in Nagano

Every winter, Iiyama City in Nagano Prefecture transforms into a magical destination known as Kamakura Village Nagano (Kamakura no Sato). From late January to late February, over 20 snow domes are hand - built from compacted snow to create a one-of-a-kind dining village.

Screen grab from below YouTube time lapse video.

These traditional Japanese kamakura offer a rare chance to dine in an igloo while enjoying Nagano winter travel at its most enchanting.

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Each dome seats 5 - 6 people and is softly lit from within, creating an atmosphere that blends comfort, tradition, and the beauty of a snow-covered landscape.

A Hot Pot Meal You’ll Never Forget

Inside the Restaurant Kamakura Village, guests are served Noroshi Nabe hot pot - a local Iiyama specialty made with Kitashinshu Miyuki Pork, mushrooms, napa cabbage, and other seasonal vegetables, all simmered in a rich Shinshu miso broth. The name Noroshi refers to the steam that rises like ancient smoke signals, adding to the historic charm of the meal.

The experience also includes freshly made rice balls using premium Iiyama Koshihikari rice, letting you savor local flavor in the heart of the snowy mountains.

More Than Just a Meal

In addition to the snow igloo restaurant, the Kamakura Village in Iiyama offers several fun and photogenic winter attractions:

• Kamakura Shrine: A snow-built shrine with a red torii gate, perfect for snowy selfies and quiet moments of reflection.

• Kamakura Market: Enjoy local treats like roasted sweet potatoes and amazake while browsing souvenirs. 

• Snow Play Area: Families with children can enjoy sledding and other outdoor snow activities in Japan. 

How to Get There

• By Train: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Iiyama Station, then a 15 - minute taxi or 20 - minute local bus ride (get off at “Shinanodaira”).

• By Car: About 25 minutes from the Toyoda - Iiyama Interchange on the Joshinetsu Expressway.

Reservation & Pricing

• Open Season: Late January to late February (exact dates may vary annually) 

• Dining Price: From ¥6,000 per adult (includes hot pot, rice balls, and use of snow dome) 

• General Admission (without dining): ¥200 for adults, ¥100 for children, free for preschoolers 

• Booking: Advanced reservation required via the official website 

Whether you're seeking a romantic winter dining experience in Japan, a fun snow adventure for the family, or simply something new to do on your next trip to Nagano, Restaurant Kamakura Village delivers an unforgettable blend of nature, food, and tradition.