Tokyo: Gunma Scenic Day Trip with Fruit Picking, Crab Lunch

Planning a day trip from Tokyo that combines nature, culture, and delicious food? The Gunma Scenic Day Trip with Fruit Picking and Crab Lunch offers an inviting escape into Japan’s countryside, with stops that promise memorable experiences without straying too far from the city. This tour, organized by LION TRAVEL JAPAN Co. Ltd., blends outdoor adventures with cultural insights, making it ideal for travelers craving a mix of scenic beauty and authentic local flavor.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances various highlights — from fruit picking at a beloved farm, to witnessing the roaring power of Fukiware Falls, to wandering through the streets of Little Edo in Kawagoe. Plus, the chance to enjoy a crab lunch makes it a satisfying culinary highlight. That said, since the itinerary involves travel and walking, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy day and moderate physical activity.

One thing to consider? The tour is quite full, with different stops in quick succession, so if you’re after a more relaxed pace, you might find this trip a little brisk. However, for anyone eager to pack in diverse experiences in one day, the value here is undeniable. This trip is perfect for curious travelers who want a well-rounded taste of Japan’s scenic and cultural treasures without the hassle of planning it themselves.

Key Points

• Diverse highlights: From fruit picking to waterfalls and historic streets, the trip offers a well-balanced mix.
• Seasonal beauty: Expect different scenes depending on the time of year, like lavender in summer or fiery autumn foliage.
• Authentic experiences: Food workshops, local specialties, and historic shrines add cultural depth.
• Value for money: At $125 per person, the tour covers transportation, guided insights, and entry tickets, making it a cost-effective way to explore.
• Family-friendly: With activities like fruit picking and play areas, it suits families with kids.
• Limited flexibility: The packed schedule may feel rushed for some; it’s best for those who enjoy a structured day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at the Shinjuku West Exit, right in front of the iconic LOVE statue on the Shinjuku Island Tower. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable vehicle that whisks you away from the city’s hustle. Traveling by car offers an efficient way to cover the distance, allowing more time to enjoy each stop rather than dealing with crowded trains or buses.

Fruit Picking at Harada Farm

The first major stop is Harada Farm, a well-loved orchard that changes with the seasons. Whether you’re grabbing ripe strawberries in winter or juicy grapes in autumn, the ability to pick your own fruits makes this a highlight. Reviewers mention that the farm’s friendly staff guide visitors through the picking process, and the fun food-making workshops (like creating jam or ice cream) enhance the experience. One guest fondly recalls, “Picking fresh fruit straight from the trees was a treat — you really get a sense of local life.”

The farm also has family-friendly play areas and a shop selling handmade treats and local specialties, so even non-pickers can enjoy browsing or tasting. The chance to sample farm-fresh produce adds a genuine touch of authenticity.

Tambara Lavender Park and Seasonal Surprises

Next up is Tambara Lavender Park, the largest lavender field in the Kanto region. When in bloom (July to August), over 50,000 lavender plants create a stunning purple landscape. Visitors ride a scenic chairlift, snap photos, and enjoy lavender-themed treats like ice cream or lavender-infused drinks. Reviewers highlight how peaceful and photogenic this spot is, with one saying, “The sea of purple is truly mesmerizing, especially with the mountain backdrop.”

Come September, the scenery shifts to fiery-red kochias (summer cypress bushes), transforming the hills into a vibrant tapestry. This seasonal change is a bonus for repeat visitors or those traveling in autumn, making the journey visually rewarding year-round.

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Fukiware Falls — Nature’s Power Unleashed

A highlight for many is Fukiware Falls, often called the “Niagara of the East.” With a 7-meter drop and a 30-meter width, the waterfalls produce a thunderous roar and spray mist, creating an exhilarating atmosphere. If weather permits, you’ll get a chance to walk along hiking trails, cross suspension bridges, and snap photos of the cascading water against lush greenery.

The falls are a favorite for nature lovers and photographers, especially since each season offers a unique perspective — lush in spring, lively in summer, fiery in autumn, and serene in winter. Reviewers note that the power of the water and the surrounding scenery make it a memorable stop, though some mention that walking around can involve some uneven surfaces.

Kawagoe — Little Edo

The final stop takes you to Kawagoe, a charming town that preserves its Edo-period architecture and ambiance, earning its nickname Little Edo. You’ll have time to stroll along streets lined with traditional warehouses, visit historic temples, and even rent a kimono for a full-on Edo look.

A visit to Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine offers a glimpse into local spirituality and tradition. Known for being a love and luck shrine, it features iconic torii gates, ema (wooden prayer plaques), and a charming tunnel of colorful ema. The summer wind chime festival, when hundreds of chimes sway in the breeze, is particularly picturesque.

The town offers local treats like sweet potato desserts and grilled eel, both of which enhance the cultural flavor of the day. Several reviews mention that Kawagoe’s authentic atmosphere and well-preserved streets make it a standout experience. One traveler shared, “Wandering through the quaint streets felt like stepping back in time, and the food was simply delicious.”

Crab Lunch and Additional Inclusions

A popular feature of this trip is the crab lunch, offering a satisfying end to a busy day. While details on the exact dining venue are limited, the inclusion of a seafood meal reflects Japan’s culinary pride and adds value to the overall experience.

The tour also offers tickets to Tambara Ski Park, which, although not detailed in the review, suggests additional recreational options if time allows or if weather permits.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $125 per person, this tour provides a well-rounded day packed with diverse activities. The cost covers transportation, a guided experience in multiple scenic spots, fruit picking, and entry to Tambara Ski Park, making it a budget-friendly way to see and taste the best of Gunma and Kawagoe.

Compared to planning each stop independently, this organized tour saves travelers time and effort, and the guided insights elevate the experience with local knowledge. The inclusion of seasonal attractions like lavender or autumn foliage adds extra value, ensuring your photos will be stunning no matter the time of year.

The tour’s structured schedule, while somewhat brisk, maximizes what you can see and do in one day. It’s an especially good choice for travelers who prefer a curated experience, with less worry about logistics and more focus on enjoying each moment.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This day trip is ideal for travelers who want a taste of Japan’s scenic countryside and historic towns without the hassle of planning. Families will appreciate the mix of outdoor activities and cultural sights, while couples looking for picturesque settings will enjoy the charming streets and waterfalls.

If you’re a foodie, the fruit picking, local snacks, and crab lunch provide delicious highlights. Those who enjoy nature photography will find plenty of opportunities at Fukiware Falls, lavender fields, and Kawagoe’s nostalgic streets.

However, if you prefer a slower pace or have mobility issues, the full schedule might feel a little rushed. It’s also best suited for those comfortable with some walking and outdoor environments.

Final Thoughts — Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a rich combination of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and tasty food, making it a memorable day out from Tokyo. The variety of stops ensures there’s something for all — whether it’s the thrill of fruit picking, the awe of waterfalls, or the nostalgia of historic streets. For those seeking a balanced mix of nature and tradition, this experience provides excellent value and authentic insights into Japan’s countryside.

The inclusion of seasonal highlights guarantees a different experience each time you visit, and the guided nature of the trip means you’ll have local tips and stories to enrich your visit. While it is a relatively full day, the effort is rewarded with a collection of beautiful scenes and authentic moments that will stick with you long after the trip ends.

If your travel style includes exploring beyond the city, enjoying good food, and taking plenty of photos, this day trip is a fantastic choice. It’s particularly perfect for curious travelers who want to see real Japan, away from tourist-heavy spots, but without the stress of independent planning.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation by car is included, making it convenient and efficient to cover all the stops.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for walking and outdoor activities.

Can I participate in the food-making workshops?
Yes, at Harada Farm, there are fun food-making workshops like jam or ice cream, included as part of the experience.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, with activities like fruit picking and play areas, it’s family-friendly.

What is the seasonality of the attractions?
Lavender blooms in summer (July-August), autumn foliage in September, and the waterfalls are stunning year-round but especially so in spring and autumn.

How long is the total tour?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, it’s a full-day experience, starting in the morning and returning in the evening.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
The provided info doesn’t specify dietary accommodations; it’s best to inquire directly if you have specific needs.

Is there a choice of stops, or is it fixed?
The itinerary appears fixed, focusing on the listed highlights, but the seasonal changes keep it fresh.

What makes Fukiware Falls special?
It’s called the “Niagara of the East” due to its powerful cascade and dramatic scenery, great for photography.

Can I book this tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with a full refund available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

To sum it up, the Tokyo: Gunma Scenic Day Trip offers a rewarding mix of outdoor adventures, cultural insights, and culinary delights. It caters well to those eager to see a different side of Japan—one filled with natural beauty and historic charm—without the stress of planning each detail. Whether you’re visiting Tokyo for a short time or seeking a day away from city life, this tour provides a memorable, value-packed experience perfect for curious explorers.

You can check availability for your dates here: