Tranquil times at Wakayama bamboo forest
©WAKAYAMA FARM
HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Bamboo Forest Stroll in Utsunomiya
Take a stroll in a family-owned bamboo grove and create your own bamboo lantern
Tochigi Prefecture
The Wakayama bamboo farm is located in the northern part of Utsunomiya, a city only 50 minutes away from Tokyo by Shinkansen bullet train. An easy stop en route to or from Nikko, guests are greeted by seemingly endless rows of bamboo. For over a century, the Wakayama family have lovingly cared for their grove to harvest bamboo shoots, a spring delicacy.
The Wakayama family’s 60-acre bamboo forest is much less crowded than those in Kyoto, making it an ideal for photographers and nature lovers looking for a peaceful spot.
Wander among the tall moso bamboo stalks at your leisure, listening to the rustling sound of the leaves, or book a guided tour to learn more about the wonders of the bamboo plant and its sustainability.
While you can enjoy the green bamboo forest all year round, there are special events on weekends and national holidays, such as drinking matcha tea served in a freshly cut bamboo cup, which can be taken home as a gift. In addition, you can stay after sunset to see the forest lit up with bamboo lights, or learn how to make your own bamboo lantern.
How to get there
From Tokyo Station to JR Utsunomiya Station, take the Shinkansen bullet train (approximately 50 minutes). From Utsunomiya Station‘s West Exit, take the Kanto Bus (about 30 minutes) and get off at Nozawateramae. The farm is about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop.
2018 Takaragihon-cho, Utsunomiya-shi, Tochigi-ken
