Seven kilometers northwest of central Utsunomiya, the Wakayama Bamboo Farm (若竹の杜若山農場, Wakatake no Mori Wakayama Nōjō) is a large area of cultivated forest, where many species of bamboo as well as chestnuts and blueberries are organically farmed. Although the main purpose of the farm remains agricultural, visitors can freely explore a large area of forest, take part in a number of seasonal activities and view a small exhibition of handcrafted bamboo items. There is also a cafe and giftshop.
The history of the farm can be traced back some 350 years, when the owner's ancestors first settled and began to cultivate the land. After many years of experimenting with various different kinds of crops, the family chose to focus on bamboo and chestnut about 100 years ago, when the then head of the family completed his studies in modern agriculture.
The farm is not only the largest of its kind in Japan but also very well maintained with spacious walking paths and is free of unsightly signs and fences. Adding to the atmosphere are a number of bamboo sculptures dotted around the grounds, ranging from decorative archways to a large and functioning rope swing.
With its natural, uncluttered appearance and featuring many different species of bamboo, the farm is highly reminiscent of the kind of pre-modern Japanese landscape now lost to industrialization - for this reason, it has become a popular location both for TV and film.
In addition to strolling around the grounds, visitors can take part in a number of activities, including bamboo shoot picking (available from mid April to early May), blueberry picking (available from July to August), drinking matcha from a bamboo cup at a tea house inside the forest, or crafting one of several bamboo items. All cost a few hundred yen in addition to the regular admission fee and may not be be available every day.
On weekends and national holidays, the forest has extended opening hours and is being illuminated after sunset, offering a magical atmosphere.
Getting there and around
From JR Utsunomiya Station (West Exit), take bus number 52, 56 or 58 to Osugiya bus stop (大杉屋, 25 minutes, 560 yen one way, every 20 minutes), from where it is a 10 minute walk to the Wakayama Bamboo Farm. Alternatively, a taxi takes about 20 minutes and costs around 4,500 yen one way from central Utsunomiya.
How to get to and around Utsunomiya
Hours and Fees
Hours
9:00 to 20:00 (weekends and national holidays from September to May)
9:00 to 21:00 (weekends and national holidays from June to August)
Admission ends 30 minutes before closing.
Closed
Admission
Cafe
Hours
Last order 30 minutes before closing.
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