Kikuchi Wasabi Garden: Experience Organic Wasabi Cultivation with Mt. Fuji's Pristine Spring Water
Mt. Fuji, Japan's most famous mountain, captivates people worldwide with its majestic appearance. At its foothills, snowmelt water that slowly filters through volcanic layers over 40 years emerges as mineral-rich spring water.
While there are many tourist attractions around Mt. Fuji, Oshino Hakkai is particularly popular. Consisting of eight clear spring ponds fed by Mt. Fuji's underground water, it has been designated as a National Natural Monument.
The Springs of Tokaichiba and Natsugari, selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Waters, is one of the representative spring water sites. Taking advantage of this rare water environment, wasabi cultivation has been practiced in this area since ancient times.
Today, we introduce the Kikuchi Wasabi Garden, which has been cultivating wasabi, Japan's traditional condiment, for over 100 years in this region.
Kikuchi Wasabi Garden: A Farm Naturally Cultivating Wasabi with Fuji Spring Water
Since its establishment in 1918, Kikuchi Wasabi Garden has continued traditional wasabi cultivation using Mt. Fuji's spring water.
The approximately 7,000 square meter property features terraced fields built with stone walls, where pristine water maintained at 12 degrees Celsius flows constantly throughout the year. The spring water quality is regularly tested and strictly managed.
Currently, fourth-generation owner Yoshihiro Kikuchi and his brother Fumio Kikuchi maintain production focused on natural cultivation without pesticides, passing down traditional Japanese farming methods to the next generation.
What is Wasabi?
Wasabi is a plant of the Brassicaceae family native to Japan, with its rhizome used as a condiment. It's an essential seasoning in Washoku (Japanese cuisine), particularly for sushi and sashimi. Its unique spiciness and aroma have become symbolic of Japanese cuisine worldwide.
Genuine wasabi cultivation requires three strict conditions: clean water, abundant water supply, and consistent water temperature. It can only be grown in limited regions worldwide.
In fact, most "wasabi" commonly available is a substitute made from horseradish, making genuine "hon-wasabi" extremely precious. Due to its rarity, real wasabi is also called the "King of Wasabi" or "Green Jewel."
The Kikuchi Wasabi Garden has gained attention both domestically and internationally as a producer of this precious genuine wasabi.
5 Reasons Why the Author Recommends Kikuchi Wasabi Garden and Its Unique Appeal
Premium Wasabi with Refreshing Heat and Rich Aroma Without Bitterness
The wasabi at Kikuchi Wasabi Garden, cultivated for approximately two years using Mount Fuji spring water, offers not just stimulating heat but also a refreshing flavor and elegant aroma. One of its attractions is the organic cultivation that maximizes wasabi's natural taste. This distinctive heat and aroma pairs exceptionally well with sashimi, soba, and even meat dishes.
The garden cultivates several varieties including "Mazuma," "Daruma," and "Masamidori." Each variety has its unique flavor profile and taste, demonstrating wasabi's complexity in its ability to be matched with different dishes and purposes.
Wasabi is considered most aromatic and delicious from late November through December. During this period, wasabi offers not only exceptional taste but also adds a special seasonal visual appeal.
The wasabi from Kikuchi Wasabi Garden is truly a masterpiece born from nature's bounty and artisanal expertise.
Experience Hands-on Harvesting in Terraced Wasabi Fields
Kikuchi Wasabi Garden's distinctive landscape is constructed using the same techniques as ancient Japanese castle architecture. By skillfully combining stones of various sizes, they create waterways (Tanada/terraced fields) that function as natural filters.
This technique, which creates the optimal environment for wasabi cultivation, is now rare. During the harvest experience, visitors can enter these historic terraced fields wearing boots and dig out wasabi using a special tool called "Tonga."
When I stepped into the wasabi field, I was immediately enveloped by the pleasant sensation of cool water and refreshing air, experiencing a sense of rejuvenation.
It's a precious opportunity to experience traditional farming methods while listening to the murmur of clear streams. Through this experience, visitors can truly appreciate the beauty of Japanese traditional culture, where nature's gifts merge with ancestral wisdom.
Take Home Fresh Wasabi and Wasabi Preserves as Souvenirs
Visitors can take home both freshly harvested wasabi and specially made preservative-free "wasabi-zuke" (pickled wasabi) as souvenirs.
This wasabi-zuke is made by blending wasabi (aged with Mongolian rock salt) with carefully selected sake lees. The fresh sake lees' aroma and the deep umami of aged sake lees create a perfect harmony, complementing the texture of generously cut wasabi pieces, offering an authentic wasabi flavor experience.
When I tasted the preservative-free wasabi-zuke, instead of the expected heat, I experienced a refreshing aroma and elegant spiciness that filled my mouth.
Highly praised by local chefs, its taste continues to be loved by many people.
Experience Passionate Explanations from the Fourth-Generation Representative of the Wasabi Garden
Mr. Yoshihiro Kikuchi, the fourth-generation owner of Kikuchi Wasabi Garden, is a passionate farmer who once pursued a different career path before being captivated by the potential of his family business. Drawing from his corporate experience in sales and accounting, he challenges new initiatives while preserving tradition.
During tours, visitors can hear detailed explanations based on extensive knowledge, covering everything from wasabi cultivation methods to Mt. Fuji's spring water system and their commitment to pesticide-free farming. The garden serves as a place to deepen understanding of Japan's traditional agriculture and food culture. He values dialogue with visitors and carefully conveys the appeal of wasabi cultivation.
I felt the inherited love for cultivation when Mr. Kikuchi said, "Wasabi becomes more delicious when grown with a smile."
Experience Harvesting While Enjoying the Original "Atsu! Atsu! Exercise" at Kikuchi Wasabi Garden
The "Atsu! Atsu! Exercise" performed before harvesting is one of the warm hospitality features unique to Kikuchi Wasabi Garden.
The exercise incorporates fun movements inspired by wasabi's spiciness and daily motions of wasabi farmers. It also serves as a stretch preparation for working in boots, allowing participants to start the experience in a pleasant atmosphere.
When I participated, there were international visitors too. Though everyone felt shy at first, as we exercised together, natural smiles emerged, creating wonderful memories.
Let's enjoy the "Atsu! Atsu! Exercise" together, transcending language barriers!
How to Book a Harvesting Experience at Kikuchi Wasabi Garden
Harvesting experiences are available daily except Wednesdays, and reservations can be made by phone. The fee is 3,500 yen per person, including freshly harvested wasabi and one pack of additive-free wasabi pickles as souvenirs. Groups of 10 or more require advance consultation.
The experience takes about one hour. Wear comfortable clothes suitable for movement. Warm clothing is especially recommended from November to March due to low temperatures.
In case of bad weather, you'll be notified by the morning of the previous day, and no cancellation fee will be charged. After the experience, you'll receive detailed explanations about delicious ways to eat wasabi and recipes.
Experience the "Mt. Fuji Nature meets Culture Tour with a Private Hire Car" by Magical Trip, featuring the kikuchi wasabi garden and other fascinating spots with a local guide
This 10-hour private tour, departing from Shinjuku or your hotel, includes an exclusive English-speaking guide and driver. While traveling, you can enjoy conversations about Japanese culture while fully experiencing the charm of the Mt. Fuji area. The tour allows you to deeply understand the historical and cultural background of tourist attractions from a local guide's unique perspective.
At the century-old wasabi garden, you can experience actual wasabi harvesting while listening to detailed explanations in English from your guide. You'll be able to experience the authentic taste and aroma of wasabi, an essential element of Japanese food culture, with all five senses.
Additionally, you'll visit sacred waterfalls that have been objects of worship since ancient times, and shrines with over 1,300 years of history. These popular photography spots on social media will help you capture memorable moments.
The tour's appeal lies in its ability to provide unique Mt. Fuji area experiences regardless of season or weather, as the optimal route is selected based on conditions. Discover Japan's hidden charms with your local guide by visiting special places not found in tourist guidebooks.
Meeting point: Meet in Shinjuku or hotel pickup
Tour area: Mt. Fuji area
Start time: From 8:00
Access to kikuchi wasabi garden
Address: 1803 Natsukari, Tsuru City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Phone: 090-9677-4933
Business hours: 8:00-17:00 (Closed on Wednesdays)
Access: About 30 minutes by car from Mt. Fuji Station
Official Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/kikuchi_wasabi/?hl=ja
Recommended spots to enjoy around kikuchi wasabi garden
Various tourist attractions are scattered at the foot of Mt. Fuji. Combining these with the Kikuchi Wasabi Garden will allow you to experience Japanese culture and charm more deeply.
Oshino Hakkai
The eight ponds where Mt. Fuji's snowmelt water emerges through underground waterways after many years and is known as "Oshino Hakkai." These ponds are remnants of an ancient lake formed by Mt. Fuji's volcanic activity. Each pond has historically been treasured as a pilgrimage site for those worshipping Mt. Fuji.
At "Kagami Ike (Mirror Pond)," you can see the "Sakasa Fuji" (inverted Mt. Fuji) reflected on the water surface on clear days. The area around "Wakuike (Welling Pond)" has become a lively street, lined with shops selling wasabi products made from Mt. Fuji's spring water (similar to those found in the famous Kikuchi wasabi garden) and local specialty snacks. It's also popular as a street food spot where you can casually enjoy traditional Japanese food culture.
The highly transparent spring water, selected as one of the "100 Best Water Sources in Japan" by the Ministry of Environment, Government of Japan, is registered as a World Cultural Heritage site as a valuable spot to experience Japan's water culture.
Address: Oshino, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture
Hours: 24 hours
Closed: Never
Phone: 0555-84-4222
Official Website: https://yamanakako.info/8lakes_top.php
Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine
Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine is drawing attention as a spectacular viewpoint where the vermillion five-storied pagoda and Mt. Fuji in the background show perfect harmony.
From its pleasant elevated location, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Mt. Fuji and the townscape of Yamanashi Prefecture. You can enjoy a 360-degree panorama where traditional Japanese architectural beauty harmonizes magnificently with the majestic nature.
Especially in spring, about 300 cherry trees color the shrine grounds, creating a landscape that weaves together three elements: the traditional five-storied pagoda, World Heritage Mt. Fuji, and cherry blossoms - Japan's representative flower. It truly symbolizes the essence of Japan.
The shrine approach is lined with shops selling local souvenirs and light meals, allowing visitors to experience Japanese popular culture along with shrine worship.
Address: 2-4-1 Asama, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Hours: 9:00-16:00
Closed: Never
Phone: 0555-23-2697
Official Website: https://www.arakurafujisengen.com/
Fuji-Q Highland
Source:Official website
Fuji-Q Highland, spreading before the World Heritage Mt. Fuji, is Japan's premier extreme park featuring world-class thrilling attractions.
Particularly notable are the various roller coasters with different characteristics, including "FUJIYAMA," "Eejanaika," "Takabisha," and "ZOKKON."
My recommendation is definitely "FUJIYAMA." From its 79-meter peak, you can see a panoramic view of Mt. Fuji. The high-speed descent that follows offers an indescribable thrill. It's a roller coaster that creates the best memories with both scenery and speed.
Fuji-Q Highland is a unique entertainment park where you can simultaneously experience extreme thrills and Japan's majestic nature, with spectacular views of Mt. Fuji visible from the rest areas.
Address: 5-6-1 Shin-Nishihara, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Hours: Varies by day, please check
Closed: Irregular
Official Website: https://www.fujiq.jp/ja