Discovering Suruga

An extraordinary travel plan crafted by local experts

Photo Credit: Visit Suruga

Why Suruga?

Filled with abundant natural beauty and resources, Suruga stands out as a globally renowned center for the cultivation of tea, boasting a rich local heritage deeply intertwined with the art of tea harvesting production, and blending. This rich history and the passion of the area’s artisans combine to inspire innovation in the field of gastronomy in Japan.

Everything that occurs in Suruga is a demonstration of the creativity and artistry of the nation’s absolute best. In addition, its landscape presents so many chances for adventure, ranging from enjoying waterside activities, mountain hikes cycling adventures and quiet moments in nature overlooking tea fields and villages. The culinary scene inspires with the use of locally sourced, farm-fresh ingredients that you won’t forget.

Tea Blending Experience
“The instructor was incredibly knowledgeable about tea – and in just an hour helped you to feel like an expert yourself. We learned how teas can be blended to create delicious new combinations and finished the experience by making our own unique tea blend to take home!”
Katie ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Inquire Here

Our Japan experts at Arigato Travel have teamed up with local artisans, activities, shops, and more to offer you the best authentic experiences. Here are some itinerary ideas for your trip but there are so many other possibilities!

Feel free to contact us at info@arigatojapan.co.jp for your custom trip. We would be happy to craft something in Suruga depending on your requests and interests!

Journey to Suruga: Deep into the heart of green tea country: 

Suruga, in Shizuoka, is easily accessible from Tokyo by train, making it a convenient destination for a getaway. You can easily add this as a stop-off on your way to Kyoto and beyond.  The Shinkansen (bullet train) connects Tokyo and Suruga in a relatively short time. Our trip recommendations feature the small and charming Shizuoka City as well as experiences in the surrounding countryside, villages, and tea farms.

Suruga is a picturesque destination offering a range of attractions and experiences that will surely feature on your wishlist for Japan. Some of the top reasons to come with us to explore this amazing area include:

Tea Farms and Terraces: Suruga really is TEA COUNTRY but beyond just being famous for production this is a special area where you can visit, and learn from farmers who have been perfecting their teas and tea blends for generations. On our tours, you can visit the valley farms and mountain terraces and sip different teas while looking out over the fields and talking with the farmers who pour their passion into every cup.

Artisans:  Since the days of the samurai, artisans have made Suruga their home. Try your hand at making pottery with a local master, and learn about shodo (Japanese calligraphy) with an expert who uses her family’s history and love of the arts and tea to create a unique experience. See the artistry of carving, painting, and sculptures at historic shrines and enjoy connecting with locals to experience the arts with ALL five of your senses.

Tea Farm Experience
“The family welcomed us onto their beautiful tea farm and guided us through an incredible tea-tasting experience. We learned so much we didn’t know about tea and the different ways we can enjoy good quality Japanese tea. It was a very welcoming and friendly atmosphere, and the mochi from the local confectionery was the best mochi we have ever tasted!”
Devon ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Coastal Areas and Culinary Delights: Suruga’s coastline is dotted with charming seaside towns where you can try delicious seafood and experience another side of life in Japan. The area boasts a rich culinary scene with a focus on fresh and local ingredients. Seafood from Suruga Bay and various regional specialties contribute to a delightful gastronomic experience and the creativity and innovation of local chefs, farmers and tea blenders make this area unlike any other in Japan.

Historical Sites:  Important since the time of the first Shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu, Shizuoka City and Suruga area have historical districts, including Sumpu Castle, and other areas feature traditional architecture and museums that showcase the region’s history.

Nature and Hiking: the diverse landscape includes mountains, forests, farms and rivers, providing great opportunities for outdoor activities. Hiking trails, nature parks, and scenic viewpoints allow visitors to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor adventures.

Overnight at a selection of unique accommodations in different ranges. Private and public transportation allow for exploration and our local and expert guides can unlock the hidden gems and connections to make your stay a highlight of your time in Japan.

Shizuoka DMC Group
“The Suruga tour was truly a one-of-a-kind, curated experience where my family and I experienced the local treasures of the region. Firstly, our tour was private so we were able to take things at our own pace. We had phenomenal tour guides and interpreters that were able to answer our questions along the way and help us connect with the locals. Some of our highlights were creating our own green tea blend, enjoying a tea tasting over the tea fields, and learn from the locals who were all so kind and excited to share their craft with us.
We also were taken to an art center where you can silk screen canvas bags with green tea dye, make bamboo lanterns, and design your own chopsticks.
If you want to do a tour that is off the beaten path, this is the tour group to do it with!”
Brianna ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Keep in mind that these are not set in stone and are just examples. If you like what you see, but want to further customize the trip to you and your group’s needs, we would be more than happy to do so. Just contact us at info@arigatojapan.co.jp and let us fulfill your custom requests and make your dream trip a reality!

Choose from two  customizable options based on your preferred schedule:

• 2 day, 1 night 
• 3 day, 2 night
  

Disclaimer: The following items are just a sample, and we cannot guarantee the availability of every item due to the changing availability based on season. New activities are always being created and we will provide excellent alternatives in the case that any of these items are unavailable during your stay and will make sure to cater them to your needs and wants.