Shizuoka Prefecture produces more tea than any other prefecture in Japan. Within Shizuoka, Kakegawa serves as one of the centers of tea, with tea accounting for a significant portion of the city's economy. The importance of tea to Kakegawa is illustrated in the outskirts of the city, where, in some areas, seemingly endless tea fields cover rolling hills for acres upon acres.

Some of the best views of the tea fields can be had to the northeast of the city center, surrounding Mount Awagatake, which itself bears the Chinese character for "tea" on its face written in bushes. From this area it is possible to get views of the tea fields with Mount Fuji looming in the distance. Be careful and considerate when driving around this area, as some of the roads can be narrow and steep.

Being known as among Japan's top tea-producing areas, Kakegawa is home to various other attractions centered around tea. The Ninomaru Tea House within the grounds of Kakegawa Castle allows visitors the chance to be served tea and a Japanese dessert in traditional surroundings with nice views of the outside garden. It is also possible to rent out the tea house for a tea ceremony.

Kiwi Fruits Country is a kiwi fruit farm on the edge of the city that also manages a tea plantation and gives visitors the chance to partake in multiple experiences involving tea, such as picking tea leaves. English guidance is available. There are also various other activities offered at the farm including kiwi picking and outdoor barbecues. Note that many experiences are only seasonably available, with the tea picking experiences generally possible from April to October.

Getting there and around

The tea fields surrounding Mount Awagatake are around a 30 minute drive north of central Kakegawa. Access by public transportation is not possible.

The Ninomaru tea house stands within the Kakegawa Castle grounds (outside of the paid area), around a ten minute walk north of Kakegawa Station.

Kiwi Fruits Country is a 15 minute drive southeast of the station or a 10 minute drive from the Kakegawa IC on the Tomei Expressway. Access by public transportation is not provided.

How to get to and around Kakegawa

Hours and Fees

Ninomaru Tea House

Hours

Closed

Admission

Kiwi Fruits Country

Hours

Closed

Admission