Shizuoka Prefecture is one of Japan’s leading strawberry-producing regions. This time, we visited Kashima Harvest, a popular strawberry-picking spot in Hamamatsu, to learn more about what makes it so special.

When it comes to fruits that signal the arrival of spring, nothing says it better than bright red strawberries.

Among them, “strawberry picking,” where you can enjoy freshly picked strawberries right on the spot, is one of the best activities to try in spring.

In fact, Shizuoka Prefecture is one of Japan’s leading strawberry-producing regions.

This time, we visited Kashima Harvest, a popular strawberry-picking spot in Hamamatsu, to learn more about what makes it so special.

Strawberry Picking at Kashima Harvest!

This time, we visited Kashima Harvest, located in Kurematsu-cho, Chuo-ku, Hamamatsu City.

Just a short 10-minute drive from popular sightseeing spots like Lake Hamana and Kanzanji Onsen, the farm is easy to reach.

The grounds feature nine greenhouses lined up across the property — and each one is impressively spacious!

The largest greenhouse covers about 800 square meters — roughly the size of two basketball courts — giving visitors plenty of space to enjoy strawberry picking at their own pace.

We also spoke with Mr. Toshihiro Miyamoto from Kashima Harvest, who shared his passion for strawberry cultivation and tips on how to make the most of your strawberry-picking experience.

Kashima Harvest  Mr. Toshihiro Miyamoto

Sweet and delicious, no matter which one you pick! Introducing Akihime, a strawberry variety born in Shizuoka.

At Kashima Harvest, they grow Akihime, a locally developed strawberry cultivar from Shizuoka.

Akihime strawberries are known for their strong sweetness and low acidity, making them a favorite among people of all ages — from children to seniors.

When fully ripe, the strawberries turn a deep red up to the area near the stem.

The rich flavor, sweet taste, and fragrant aroma of perfectly ripened Akihime are what make them truly special.

“Because Akihime has very little acidity, even strawberries that are just shy of full ripeness — with a bit of white near the stem — still taste fresh and sweet. That’s what makes Akihime so special: every berry is delicious,” says Mr. Miyamoto.

At Kashima Harvest, they use traditional soil-based cultivation, allowing the plants to develop strong roots and produce strawberries with rich, well-balanced flavor.

They also take great care in using organic fertilizers made from natural materials such as rice husks and rice bran to nurture the strawberries with attention and care.

Inside the greenhouse, you can even spot tiny honeybees busily flying around the strawberry blossoms, helping with pollination.

“These honeybees help with pollination, which allows us to grow beautifully shaped strawberries,” explains Mr. Miyamoto.

The girls who visited for strawberry picking that day were delighted, their eyes darting between all the bright red berries as they exclaimed, “They’re so sweet and delicious!”

All-you-can-eat for a full 60 minutes! Relax and enjoy with the whole family.

At Kashima Harvest, the strawberry-picking experience lasts a generous 60 minutes.

With plenty of time, you can take it easy and enjoy picking strawberries at your own pace — no need to rush.

“We want families who come to enjoy strawberry picking on their day off to create lasting memories together. That’s why we decided to offer a slightly longer 60-minute session,” says Mr. Miyamoto.

For parents with small children, 30 minutes can fly by while keeping an eye on the little ones.

But with a full 60 minutes, the whole family can relax and enjoy strawberry picking together at a comfortable pace!

We recommend picking fully ripe strawberries that are bright red up to just below the stem — the larger ones are especially delicious,” Mr. Miyamoto told us.

“Everyone is busy with their daily lives, so I hope families can take their time and relax while they’re here for strawberry picking,” says Mr. Miyamoto with a gentle smile.

His warm words truly touched my heart.

What’s more, Kashima Harvest is filled with thoughtful touches that make it easy for families to enjoy strawberry picking at a relaxed pace.

First, let’s take a look at their rest area.

Part of the greenhouse floor is covered with artificial grass, and benches are set up so visitors can sit and take a break anytime during strawberry picking.

Since the session lasts a full 60 minutes, it’s the perfect spot to rest for a moment whenever you need a little break.

“Many families visit with three generations together — grandparents, parents, and children. It’s heartwarming to see grandparents relaxing on the benches while their grandchildren pick strawberries and bring them over,” says Mr. Miyamoto.

There’s also a space where you can place your belongings, so you can enjoy strawberry picking hands-free.

And of course, no strawberry picking is complete without condensed milk — at Kashima Harvest, you can get free refills!

Being able to enjoy fresh strawberries with sweet condensed milk all the way until the end of your 60-minute session is sure to delight anyone with a sweet tooth!

Inside the greenhouse, you’ll also find an adorable photo spot perfect for taking cute pictures.

The balloon art here is handmade by Mr. Miyamoto himself.

If you’re lucky with the timing, you might even get a chance to take home one of his cute strawberry balloon creations.

With so many thoughtful touches throughout, strawberry picking at Kashima Harvest is not only perfect for those who want to savor delicious strawberries, but also for families looking to create unforgettable memories together!

At the farm’s shop, you can also purchase freshly picked strawberries.

The bright red berries, adorned with a cute strawberry blossom, make a perfect souvenir to take home from your trip.

This time, we introduced Kashima Harvest, a wonderful spot where you can enjoy all-you-can-eat strawberry picking for a relaxing 60 minutes.

On your next spring trip or outing, be sure to experience strawberry picking in Hamamatsu and around Lake Hamana!

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Kashima Harvest – Facility & Admission Information

Address: 3624 Kurematsu-cho, Chuo-ku, Hamamatsu

Phone: 053-487-0875

Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Hours may vary depending on the season.
Please call ahead before visiting, as the farm may close or shorten its hours depending on the condition of the strawberries.

For reservations and more details, please visit the official website.

Official Website: https://harvest.hamazo.tv/