As the humid summer air fades and the maple leaves start to turn red and gold, Japan’s autumn fruit picking season offers a time to savour the natural sweetness of locally grown delicacies. From juicy persimmons to citrusy mikan, this is one of the most delicious ways to experience Japan’s countryside.
Our Autumn Fruit Picking in Japan Recommendations
If you’re looking for a weekend escape from Tokyo this November, here are some of the best places in the Kanto region to enjoy autumn fruit picking, and even a few mushroom or vegetable harvest experiences to round out your day.
1. Nakagomi Orchard (Nagano): Persimmons and Apples in the Mountains
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Although technically just beyond Kanto’s border, Nakagomi Orchard (中込農園) in Minami Alps, Nagano, is one of the most popular fruit-picking destinations for Tokyoites, and for good reason.
Throughout early to mid-November, you can still pick persimmons (kaki) and apples, both of which are in peak season. The orchard offers an “all-you-can-eat” experience where you can sample fruit straight from the tree while surrounded by crisp mountain air and views of Mount Fuji on clear days.
Nakagomi Orchard also grows over ten varieties of apples, so depending on timing, you might get to taste Fuji, Shinano Gold, or Jonagold. The farm staff are used to international visitors and provide information in English.
Access: Around 2 hours from Tokyo by train (JR Chuo Line to Nirasaki Station, then taxi).
Website: Find the English website here
2. Tsukuihama Kanko Nōen (Kanagawa): Mikan and Sweet Potatoes by the Sea
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If you prefer something closer to Tokyo, Tsukuihama Kanko Nōen (津久井浜観光農園) in Yokosuka, Kanagawa, offers an easy-going, family-friendly picking experience with a seaside view.
During November, the highlight here is mikan (satsuma mandarin) picking. Visitors are given scissors and a basket and can enjoy as many of the sweet citrus fruits as they can eat. The farm also runs sweet potato digging (imo-hori) around the same period — perfect if you want to balance fruit with something hearty.
It’s a great day trip spot for anyone who wants a taste of the Japanese countryside without travelling far. You can even combine it with a visit to nearby Miura Beach or a local onsen.
Access: About 1 hour 20 minutes from central Tokyo (Keikyu Line to Tsukuihama Station, 5-minute walk).
Website: Find the Japanese website here and download the English PDF
3. Komatsuzawa Leisure Farm (Saitama): Shiitake Mushroom Picking in the Forest
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Tucked away in the scenic Chichibu Mountains of Saitama, Komatsuzawa Leisure Farm (小松沢レジャー農園) is a charming countryside spot perfect for a cool-weather outing.
From November through winter, visitors can enjoy shiitake mushroom picking, one of Japan’s most popular autumn harvest activities. Inside the farm’s greenhouse, rows of logs are dotted with plump shiitake ready to be picked. The friendly staff will show you how to twist them off gently from the stem, and you can grill your fresh mushrooms on-site for the ultimate farm-to-table experience.
Besides mushroom picking, Komatsuzawa offers seasonal vegetable harvesting, barbecue areas, and a small café serving local dishes made with Chichibu ingredients. It’s a peaceful and family-friendly spot that showcases Japan’s rural charm just a short trip from Tokyo.
Access: Around 2 hours from Ikebukuro by train and bus (Seibu Chichibu Line → bus to Yokoze).
Website: Find the Japanese website here
4. Miharashien (Yamanashi): Double the Fun with Apple and Grape Picking
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A favourite among fruit-picking enthusiasts, Miharashien (みはらし園) in Yamanashi offers an “Autumn W-Picking” experience, combining apple and grape picking in one visit.
Their apple season runs through November, with several late-harvest varieties available. The grape houses also stay open into early November, meaning you can enjoy two of Japan’s best-loved autumn fruits on the same day.
The farm is family-run and known for its friendly hospitality and they’ll even help you select the ripest fruit to take home. Don’t miss the farm shop selling handmade jams and juices made from the same fruits you pick.
Access: About 1 hour 30 minutes from Shinjuku by limited express train to Isawa-Onsen Station, then a short taxi ride.
Website: Find the Japanese website here
More Ways to Celebrate Japan’s Autumn Harvest
If the weather turns rainy or you’re looking for something different, many farms also offer vegetable digging experiences like daikon, carrot, or sweet potato harvesting (芋掘り). Local roadside markets and “michi-no-eki” (road stations) are also filled with seasonal produce, so even if you can’t visit a farm, you can still bring the taste of autumn home.
Make the Most of Your Autumn Fruit Picking Day
Before setting off, remember to check each farm’s website or social media as schedules can change depending on weather and crop conditions. Most farms provide tools and bags, but bringing your own gloves and reusable containers is always a good idea.
Whether you’re wandering through a persimmon orchard or picking citrus under the November sun, autumn fruit picking in Kanto offers a refreshing escape from the city, and a chance to connect with Japan’s agricultural traditions in the most delicious way possible.
Related articles:
- Living Seasonally: Delicious Autumn Vegetables in Japan
- A Guide to Delicious Autumn Bento Recipes: Celebrate Autumn with Japanese Seasonal Flavors
- Strawberry Picking in Japan
- Seasonal Japanese Fruits – Winter
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