5 Things to Do in Japan On Spring
It’s impossible to avoid the sakura craze in March and April. Cherry blossoms aren’t the only thing to look forward to in spring in Japan. Here are five spring sports in Japan if you’d rather avoid the cherry blossoms season.
1. Strawberries Picking
Strawberry season is difficult to predict in Japan. Corn pudding and other winter treats are connected with red fruit. Winter strawberries are now common in Japan, yet just 30 years ago. Until Japanese farmers figured out a method to cultivate them all year round, they were primarily a spring fruit.
For a brief period in the spring, strawberry farms all around Japan open their greenhouse doors for Ichigo gari (strawberry picking). During that time, visitors can select and consume an infinite number of strawberries. They also provide sweetened condensed milk for visitors to use as a dipping sauce for their freshly picked berries. Tochigi Prefecture, home to the Tochi Otome variety, is Japan’s largest strawberry grower. Fukuoka, Japan’s second-largest producer, should not be overlooked.
2. Sample sake
Experience the work and history of Japan’s national drink, nihonshu (sake), at a local sake storehouse that was the first to open its doors. kurabiraki season begins when Sugiyama (ball made from sprigs of Japanese cedar)
Visitors may sample a wide range of freshly brewed sake and limited-edition beers during the celebrations. Fukuoka is well-known for its abundance of kurabiraki restaurants.
3. Hiking
During the hanami season, the easiest way to dodge the crowds is to go on a hike.
There are several hiking paths in Japan. After all, it is a country surrounded by mountains that is ideal for outdoor activities. This time of year is a good time to remember that cedar pollen may be found throughout Japan from March to early May. If you have hay fever, this trek may be a nightmare for you. Plan accordingly.
On a lovely spring day, several mountains will be carpeted with flower buds and budding flora. Precautions and adequate hiking gear are always a good idea while going on a hike.
In the spring, these are some of the greatest mountain ranges in Japan for hiking:
- Mount Takao in Hachioji, Tokyo
- Mount Shibutsu in Tone, Gunma Prefecture
- Mount Yoshino in Yoshino, Nara Prefecture
- Mount Aso in Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture
- Mount Yoneyama in Kashiwazaki, Niigata Prefecture
4. Dig for clams
Shiohigari, or clam digging, is a great way to get a “vitamin sea” dose in the springtime.
Littleneck clam digging is a popular hobby in Japan for couples and families, and you’ll find plenty of people doing it at the beach right now. Preparation is key in scuba diving, so check the tidal levels before you set out.
Set aside a few extra pairs of clothing and some tools for the task at hand. These items may be purchased for under a hundred dollars if you don’t already have them, but you can also find digging equipment for sale at any major beach.
Calcium and vitamin B12 are abundant in Littleneck clams. Miso or rice may be added to your food processor and cooked for an easy and healthy supper.
Try clamming at one of these locations:
- Marine Park in Kanagawa
- Futtsu Beach in Chiba
- Shinmaiko Shiohigari Jyo in Hyogo
- Yoshida Beach in Aichi
5. Forage for wild greens
How about hunting for sansai (wild vegetables) if picking strawberries isn’t enough? You can still have an adventure in Japan’s woods even if you’re afraid to consume what you discover. Assemble your bear-repellent gear, including bells and spray, and have a compass and GPS device with you. Wear a cap, gloves, and sturdy hiking boots to prepare for any weather.
