Iwamura is a small well-preserved castle town located high in the Kiso Mountains. Though long gone, Iwamura Castle was once the highest mountain castle in all of Japan at 717m above sea level. However, the most fascinating thing about this town was that it was once ruled over by a female samurai lord. Your guide will share her unique storey with you and why the locals still adore her to this day as you walk along the cobblestone paths through this quaint village. You will then have the opportunity to tour Iwamura Sake Brewery. The brewery—which has been making sake for over 200 years—will provide you with a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and a sample of three types of sake. Non-alcoholic samples are available for children and those who do not drink alcohol—though we also highly recommend the handmade ice cream.