Hadano might not be as famous as nearby Tokyo or Hakone, but it offers some surprisingly authentic and engaging experiences that go beyond typical tourist spots. Whether you’re into tasting sake in a centuries-old brewery, picking fresh strawberries in the countryside, or exploring exclusive brewery areas, Hadano has a lot to offer seeking a genuine taste of Japan. We’re particularly fond of the Hadano: Kanei Sake Brewery Tour with Tastings, with its combination of history, flavorful sips, and scenic mountain views, making it a well-rounded experience for lovers of tradition and nature alike.
If you’re looking for a quick outdoor activity, the Strawberry Picking Experience Near Tokyo offers a delightful hands-on encounter with Japan’s famous sweet strawberries, with the chance to learn about local farming practices. Meanwhile, for those interested in diving deep into sake craftsmanship, the Kanei Shuzoten Sake Brewery Tour and Tasting offers access to normally restricted brewery areas and a curated tasting session. Below, we’ll explore each experience in detail to help you decide which fits your interests and schedule best.
1. Hadano: Kanei Sake Brewery Tour with Tastings
At number one, the Kanei Sake Brewery Tour combines history, flavor, and scenic beauty. For just $34 per person, this guided tour takes you through the storied halls of Hadano’s famed brewery, which has been producing sake since 1868. The highlight is sampling three different sakes — each with its own distinct character — giving you a real sense of Japan’s brewing artistry.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of culture and natural scenery. After learning about the traditional brewing techniques passed down through generations, you’ll enjoy a scenic bus ride through the Tanzawa Mountains, perfect for appreciating Hadano’s lush landscapes. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate, sharing insights about everything from rice polishing to water quality, which are crucial to sake flavor. This tour is ideal for those interested in Japan’s beverage traditions, and the modest price offers excellent value. Expect to walk away with a deeper understanding and appreciation of sake, plus some memorable mountain vistas.
Bottom line: If you’re a fan of Japanese culture, craft beverages, or scenic drives, this tour offers a comprehensive, authentic experience for a reasonable price.
2. Hadano, Japan: Strawberry Picking Experience Near Tokyo
Second on our list is the Strawberry Picking Experience. This two-hour tour is a perfect light outing for families, couples, or anyone craving a sweet treat. Just about 1.5 hours by train from Tokyo, Hadano’s strawberry farms are renowned for their juicy, flavorful berries. The tour includes a bus ride through the lush countryside, followed by hands-on strawberry picking — an activity that’s both fun and delicious.
What makes this experience special is the chance to meet local farmers and learn about their cultivation techniques, giving you a window into Japan’s agricultural practices. Plus, the farm offers plenty of photo-worthy spots to capture your berry-filled memories. It’s a simple, relaxed experience, with the focus on the joy of picking your own strawberries and sampling their sweetness straight from the plant. The price isn’t listed, but considering the quality and the opportunity to enjoy fresh, local produce, it’s a worthwhile outing for a few hours of rural relaxation.
Bottom line: Ideal for families or anyone who loves fresh fruit, this tour provides a taste of Japan’s farm life with a sweet payoff. It’s an easy, fun way to enjoy the countryside without a big time commitment.
3. Kanagawa: Kanei Shuzoten Sake Brewery Tour and Tasting
Third, the Kanei Shuzoten Sake Brewery Tour offers a more intimate and exclusive look into sake production. Lasting about 1.5 hours, this tour grants access to areas normally closed to the public, making it a rare opportunity for serious fans of Japan’s national drink. The experience is led by staff with deep knowledge of the brewing process, explaining how koji mold, fermentation, and aging work together to create the perfect sake.
What makes this tour stand out is the curated tasting session, where you’ll sample a variety of sake that showcase different brewing styles. The guides also share insights into how balance, purity, and elegance are achieved through craftsmanship. The tour is well-suited for those who want to go beyond the surface and truly understand sake-making techniques, especially if you’re curious about Japanese beverage culture.
Guests have noted the access to normally restricted areas and the quality of the tasting as highlights. If you’re a sake enthusiast or want a more behind-the-scenes look, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to deepen your appreciation of Japan’s national drink.
Bottom line: For lovers of sake or those interested in Japanese craftsmanship, this tour provides an exclusive peek into a working brewery along with tastings that are hard to find elsewhere.
How to Choose Your Best Experience
When deciding between these options, think about what excites you most. Want a culture with sake tasting and scenic mountain views? The first tour Hadano: Kanei Sake Brewery is your best bet. If you prefer a light, family-friendly outdoor activity with lots of fresh fruit, the strawberry picking near Tokyo is perfect. For a more specialized, behind-the-scenes sake experience, the exclusive Kanei Shuzoten Brewery offers a deeper dive.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For example, the sake brewery tours provide different levels of access and insight, so choose based on whether you want a broad cultural experience or an in-depth look at sake craftsmanship. Many tours work well if booked in advance, especially during peak seasons like spring for strawberries or autumn for sake festivals.
Final Thoughts
Hadano’s range of tours shows it’s more than just a quiet mountain town. Whether you’re sampling sake in a historic brewery, picking fresh strawberries, or exploring exclusive brewing areas, there’s an authentic experience waiting for you. For most travelers, the sake tours are particularly compelling — offering insight into Japan’s cherished tradition, with plenty of flavorful moments. Meanwhile, the strawberry picking is a charming way to enjoy Japan’s rural side, especially if traveling with family.
If you’re planning a trip to the area, consider booking early — these experiences are popular and fill up quickly. Each offers a different slice of Japanese life, making Hadano a surprisingly rewarding addition to your itinerary. Whether you seek cultural depth, outdoor fun, or culinary delights, Hadano’s tours won’t disappoint.