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Could these be the world’s finest strawberries? They look pretty amazing, don’t they?
It’s often said that Shizuoka, Japan, is home to the world’s finest strawberries. It’s a big call, but what is certain is that this Japanese prefecture has some unique regional strawberry species like Beni-Hoppe, Akihime, and Kirapika – all renowned for their sweetness, size, and quality.
What is also certain is that with more than 50 strawberry farms, Shizuoka is the strawberry capital of Japan. This beautiful prefecture, on Japan’s Pacific Ocean coast midway between Tokyo and Nagoya, is a great place to do a strawberry picking and tasting tour.
The strawberry season runs from January to May, making this the perfect time to plan a trip to the Shizuoka countryside. Many of the farms offer an all-you-can-pick-and-eat experience. Check out the Ema Strawberry Picking Centre in Izunokuni, the largest strawberry farm in Shizuoka.
Once your belly is filled with strawberries, there are plenty of other things to do in Shizuoka. The prefecture is home to Mt. Fuji, Japan’s highest peak, and there are other natural wonders such as the Shiraito Falls and Kawazu Seven Waterfalls, not to mention some really beautiful beaches.
Shizuoka is also famous for its feudal history. You can pay your respects at the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Tausha Shrine, or if shopping is more your style, head to the Gotemba Premium Outlets with more than 200 stores where you can shop to your heart’s content.
Whatever you choose to do, make sure you taste Shizuoka’s juicy strawberries. In a land where quality is prioritized over quantity, they’re another reason to add Japan to your travel wish list.
More information: Explore Shizuoka.
