A Unique Blend of Nature and Adventure Near Tokyo

If you’re looking for an authentic day trip from Tokyo that combines the sweet taste of fresh strawberries with the thrill of snow at the base of Mt. Fuji, this private tour offers a compelling option. Priced at $1,100 for a group of up to four, it runs about 10 hours, with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off included. You’ll first visit the Yamanashi Fuji Fruits Park to indulge in all-you-can-eat strawberries, carefully cultivated just for visitors, then head to Fujiten Lily Park, a ski resort where you can enjoy snow activities and even try skiing if you wish.

What we love about this experience is its personalized nature—it’s a private tour, meaning you’ll enjoy a relaxed pace and tailored attention from your guide, plus the stunning views of Mt. Fuji are a constant backdrop. The professional photographer guide is an added bonus, ensuring that your memories are beautifully captured. The tour’s flexibility means you can enjoy snow play off the slopes or even just splash around in the snow, perfect for families or anyone wanting a taste of winter without a full ski trip.

One point to consider is that admission tickets are not included for the fruit park and ski resort, so you’ll want to budget accordingly. Also, bad weather can impact snow conditions or views of Mt. Fuji, which is always a possibility when visiting the mountain. This tour suits families with kids, couples, or groups eager to enjoy a relaxed yet diverse day experiencing Japan’s natural beauty and seasonal delights.

Key Points

Personalized private tour with hotel pickup and drop-off makes for a comfortable day.
All-you-can-eat strawberries provide a sweet, memorable experience, especially from December to March.
Snow activities at Fujiten Lily Park offer fun for all ages, with skiing rentals available.
Stunning Mt. Fuji views serve as a scenic backdrop throughout the day.
Flexibility in snow play allows for safe, fun off-slope activities.
Professional photographer guide helps capture your special moments.

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Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

First Stop: Yamanashi Fuji Fruits Park

Your day begins with a visit to the Yamanashi Fuji Fruits Park, where you’ll get to pick strawberries in a controlled, indoor environment. The all-you-can-eat style of the experience is perfect for sampling different varieties of Japanese strawberries, which are carefully cultivated to ensure sweetness and quality. Expect about 30 minutes of tasting, but be prepared to savor as many strawberries as you like within that time.

The careful in-house cultivation means the berries are fresh, juicy, and clean, offering a real taste of local produce. Several reviews highlight how memorable the experience was for children, who loved the chance to pick and eat strawberries right from the plant in a safe, clean setting. Keep in mind that admission to the fruit park isn’t included in the tour price, so you’ll pay separately.

Second Stop: Fujiten Lily Park

Next, the journey takes you to the foot of Mt. Fuji to the Fujiten Lily Park, a ski resort that’s also a fantastic snow playground. Depending on the weather, you might encounter a blanket of snow perfect for snowball fights, building snowmen, or just playing in the snow. For those interested, ski rental and lessons are available, making it accessible even for beginners.

The ski area is suitable for a first snow experience, especially with rental gear and a safe environment. Bring your own gloves, as rental gloves aren’t provided. Kids can enjoy a dedicated playground designed for safe snow play, and many reviews praise the stunning views of Mt. Fuji that frame the snow-covered scenery. Whether you want to try skiing or just enjoy the snowy surroundings, there’s ample opportunity for fun.

Transportation and Weather Considerations

Travel is arranged via rental van with snow tires, ensuring safer driving conditions in winter weather. The tour is designed to be flexible, but weather can influence your experience—poor visibility or lack of snow might limit certain activities. Still, even with less-than-ideal conditions, the scenery and fresh mountain air make the trip worthwhile.

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The Practicalities: What’s Included and What to Budget

This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, which offers a relaxed, personalized experience. Your guide, who is also a professional photographer, will be there to assist and make sure you don’t miss a shot. The round-trip private transfer and transportation with fuel surcharge are included, so you won’t need to worry about navigating or extra costs.

However, admission tickets to the fruit park and ski resort are not included, so budget around ¥1,000-¥2,000 per person depending on your activities and rentals. Lunch isn’t included either, so packing a snack or planning a meal afterward might be wise.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour caters well to families with children, given its combination of fun, safe snow activities, and tasty strawberries. It’s also ideal for couples or groups wanting a memorable day with scenic views of Mt. Fuji and an authentic taste of Japanese produce. Those seeking a relaxed pace with plenty of photo opportunities will find it particularly appealing.

Why Choose This Tour?

We found that the personalized service and the chance to capture beautiful moments with a professional photographer really set this experience apart. The stunning views of Mt. Fuji, combined with the delight of fresh strawberries, make for a multi-sensory adventure. Plus, the ability to try snow play or skiing without the hassle of planning your own trip adds notable value.

That said, it’s not the best choice if you’re after a full ski experience or want included tickets, but for a balanced day trip combining food, fun, and scenery, this hits the mark.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, from 8:00am pickup to drop-off, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are food and drinks included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal afterward.

Can I try skiing?
Yes, skiing is available for those interested, with rental gear provided. You can also just enjoy playing in the snow if you prefer.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. Kids love the snow activities and strawberry picking, making it a family-friendly experience.

What should I bring?
Bring gloves for snow play, comfortable clothes suitable for the winter weather, and possibly a camera to capture the views and moments.

Are tickets for the fruit park and ski resort included?
No, those are separate costs. You’ll need to pay for admission if you wish to participate in specific activities.

What is the weather like?
Weather can vary—snow conditions depend on recent snowfall, and Mt. Fuji views are clearer on sunny days. It’s best to be prepared for cold and possible rain or snow.

Is the tour flexible in case of bad weather?
While the itinerary is fixed, bad weather might limit some activities, but the guide will do their best to adapt and ensure you still have a memorable day.

Final Thoughts

This private Strawberry Picking and Snow Experience at Mt. Fuji offers a well-rounded taste of Japan’s natural delights. It combines the simple joy of fresh strawberries with the exhilaration of snow play, all set against the breathtaking Mt. Fuji backdrop. The personalized nature of the tour, along with the helpful guide and professional photos, makes it particularly appealing for families or couples seeking an easy, fun-filled escape from Tokyo.

The value lies in the convenience of private transport, the opportunity for seasonal fun, and the chance to create lasting memories without the hassle of organizing each step yourself. While it’s not a full ski trip or an all-inclusive experience, it’s a wonderfully authentic and scenic day that combines nature, food, and adventure in a relaxed setting.

If you’re after a family-friendly, scenic, and engaging day trip that balances nature and fun, this tour could be just the ticket. Just remember to check the weather forecast and pack appropriately!