An Introduction to the Naka-Izu Gourmet Journey

Imagine a two-day escape into Japan’s lush countryside, where you’ll taste fresh wasabi, savor fine wines, learn about traditional tea production, and enjoy the comforts of glamping—all for $1,516 per person. Led by friendly guides, this small-group luxury tour offers an intimate look at Japan’s food culture while providing a level of comfort that makes the experience feel special, yet relaxed. The tour visits iconic sites like wasabi terraces and Nakaizu Winery, while also giving you time to shop at Gotemba Premium Outlets and end with a memorable farewell dinner.
What we particularly love about this trip is how it balances culinary discovery with scenic beauty. You’ll get to experience Japan’s unique wasabi culture firsthand—walking through the terraces and visiting the Wasabi Museum—and then enjoy wine tasting at a historic winery surrounded by nature’s tranquility. The glamping overnight experience adds a cozy touch, blending outdoor adventure with comfort. Plus, the tour includes hands-on tea activities, making it truly engaging.
A potential consideration is that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, so it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with some walking and outdoor activities. If you’re a food lover eager to explore Japan’s culinary traditions in a relaxed setting, this journey fits the bill perfectly.
This tour appeals most to travelers who enjoy gourmet experiences, scenic landscapes, and luxury small-group travel. It’s ideal for those looking for an authentic taste of Honshu’s countryside without sacrificing comfort.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points

- Intimate experience with limited group size of 10 ensures personalized attention.
- Authentic hands-on activities like tea leaf picking and hand-rolling enhance cultural understanding.
- Stunning scenery at wasabi terraces, Banjo Falls, and winery grounds enrich the journey.
- Gourmet delights include premium wine, farm-to-table BBQ, and a farewell dinner.
- Luxurious glamping provides a comfortable overnight stay amid nature.
- Convenient transportation on a luxury bus allows relaxed exploration without the hassle.
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Exploring Japan’s Unique Food and Scenic Culture

When we think of Japan, we often imagine bustling cities or iconic landmarks like Mount Fuji. But stepping into Naka-Izu’s countryside offers a different side of the country—one steeped in natural beauty and culinary tradition. This tour is a chance to slow down and savor some of Japan’s distinctive flavors in an authentically beautiful setting.
Day One: Wasabi, Waterfalls, and Winery Charm
Your journey begins with a friendly pickup from Tokyo, setting the tone for a relaxed, intimate experience. Traveling comfortably on a luxury bus, you’ll head toward the wasabi terraces, where you’ll walk among endless rows of vibrant green plants, watching how Japan’s iconic spicy ingredient is cultivated. Visiting the Wasabi Museum provides insight into the plant’s history and the meticulous ways it’s grown—something any food lover will appreciate.
Next, you’ll explore the Banjo Falls, a lesser-known natural beauty that offers a peaceful break from busy tourist spots. The stunning waterfall views are a highlight for those who love landscape photography or simply enjoying Japan’s untouched nature.
The afternoon continues with a visit to Nakaizu Winery, where you’ll learn about the region’s winemaking history. Here, you’ll taste a variety of local wines and juices, pairing them with carefully selected snacks. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated the personalized attention and the beautiful surroundings, which create a perfect backdrop for tasting.
The day culminates with a premium BBQ dinner featuring ingredients sourced from nearby farms. The emphasis on farm-to-table cuisine ensures fresh flavors and a taste of local life. Afterward, you check into your glamping tent—a cozy, yet luxurious, retreat amid the vineyards. The combination of nature and comfort makes this overnight stay a standout feature of the tour.
Day Two: Tea Fields, Shopping, and a Farewell Feast
The next morning begins with a visit to a local tea farm. Here, you get an authentic experience—touring the fields, picking tea leaves during the season, and trying your hand at traditional hand-rolling. These activities deepen your understanding of Japan’s revered tea culture, something often missed on larger, more commercial tours.
Following the tea experience, a visit to Gotemba Premium Outlets offers some leisure shopping, perfect for picking up souvenirs or just enjoying a break in a scenic setting. The outlet mall is well-known for its collection of international and Japanese brands, giving you a chance to snag a deal.
The tour concludes with a special farewell dinner, where guides and travelers share stories and reflections about the journey. Many reviews highlight how this final meal caps off the experience with a warm, communal feeling.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat Makes This Tour Special?

Beyond the exciting stops, what truly sets this experience apart is the balance between culture and comfort. You’ll walk through iconic landscapes and participate in hands-on activities that foster a deeper appreciation of Japan’s food traditions. Meanwhile, the luxury transportation and glamping stay ensure you’re relaxed and well-cared-for without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
The small group size (limited to 10 travelers) enhances the personalized atmosphere and allows guides to tailor some of the experiences. The English-speaking guides make navigation and explanations straightforward, while the local Japanese guides add authenticity.
Duration & Cost Analysis
At 2 days, the tour is a compact but comprehensive introduction to Honshu’s culinary and scenic treasures. The price of $1,516 per person might seem high at first glance, but it includes luxury transport, guided activities, meals, accommodation, and exclusive experiences. For travelers craving a luxury-focused, authentic experience that combines gourmet delights with nature, this represents good value.
Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for foodies eager to learn about Japan’s wasabi, wine, and tea, as well as those wanting to relax in beautiful scenery. It suits travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and are comfortable with some walking and outdoor activities. It’s less suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, given the nature of some activities and terrain.
If you’re someone looking to combine culinary discovery with scenic beauty in a luxurious yet authentic setting, this tour will hit the mark.
Final Thoughts

This 2-day Naka-Izu journey offers a well-rounded glimpse into Japan’s countryside cuisine and landscape. It balances educational activities, delicious food, and comfortable accommodation to create a memorable escape from city life. The stunning views, particularly at the wasabi terraces and winery grounds, are sure to stay with you long after the trip ends.
While the price might seem steep, the quality of experiences—from hands-on tea activities to glamping in vineyard surroundings—justifies it for those seeking a refined, authentic taste of Japan. It’s a fantastic option for culinary travelers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a small-group adventure with ample opportunities to connect and learn.
If you want a luxury, food-focused tour with a scenic twist that emphasizes local culture and natural beauty, this Naka-Izu journey should be high on your list.
Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, you’ll travel comfortably on a luxury bus throughout the trip, which helps you relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about logistics.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, making it intimate and allowing for personalized attention.
Are there any activities I should be prepared for?
You will visit wasabi terraces, participate in tea leaf picking and hand-rolling, and enjoy wine tasting—all mostly outdoors or in farm environments.
Can I participate if I’m not a wine or tea drinker?
While wine and tea tasting are part of the experience, the focus is on cultural understanding. You can simply enjoy the scenery and learn about the process.
What kind of accommodation is provided?
You’ll stay overnight in a glamping tent, which combines a luxurious ambiance with the experience of sleeping amid nature.
Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
The details provided don’t specify dietary accommodations, but the emphasis on local ingredients suggests some flexibility. It’s best to inquire in advance if you have specific needs.
Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suited for active travelers, but specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned. It’s designed for those comfortable with outdoor activities.
What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing for outdoor activities, possibly a camera for scenic spots, and an appetite for new flavors and experiences.
This detailed, authentic journey promises a blend of culinary discovery, beautiful landscapes, and luxurious comfort — perfect for those wanting to explore Japan’s lesser-known treasures in style.
You can check availability for your dates here: