Makinohara Plateau: Japan Largest Tea Region

Makinohara Plateau in central-western Shizuoka is known as one of Japan largest tea-producing areas. Vast tea fields stretch to the horizon in a scene that could be called a sea of tea, with neatly trimmed green rows spreading in every direction.

History of Tea Cultivation

Full-scale tea cultivation on the plateau began in the early Meiji era. Former Tokugawa retainers who moved to Shizuoka started clearing the vast, undeveloped highland around 1869. Later, porters who had lost their jobs when the Oi River crossing service was abolished joined the reclamation work. Guided by figures such as Chujo Kageaki, and helped by the well-draining soil and mild climate, the area grew into one of Japan foremost tea gardens.

Tea Fields and Views of Mt. Fuji

The greatest appeal of Makinohara Plateau is the sheer scale of the tea fields reaching to the horizon. Layered rows of arched, neatly trimmed green plants make an overwhelming sight, and on clear days Mt. Fuji can be seen in the distance. Nearby facilities let visitors learn about tea history, try tea picking, and taste freshly brewed tea.

Access and Basic Information

Kanaya Station and Shimada Station on the JR Tokaido Main Line serve as bases. Traveling by car is convenient for reaching the viewpoints and tea gardens on the plateau, which is also accessible from Shin-Tomei and Tomei Expressway interchanges. Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Airport sits on the plateau, and access buses run from Shimada and Kanaya stations to the airport (routes and frequency should be confirmed). Hours, fees, and reservation requirements for facilities may change, so check the official information of each site or the local tourism association.

Practical Travel Notes

The plateau is vast and its highlights are spread out, so planning around car travel makes for an efficient visit. From the viewpoints you can watch planes take off and land beyond the tea fields, a sight unique to this area. Nearby Shin-Kanaya Station on the Oigawa Railway makes it popular to combine a steam-locomotive ride with tea-field sightseeing. There is little shade, so on sunny days a hat and drinks are advisable.

Practical Travel Notes Extra

If you want to photograph Mt. Fuji beyond the tea fields, clear mornings in autumn and winter are ideal. For the vivid green of the new-tea season, late April to May is best, though the fields look very different depending on the weather. Tea-picking experiences often require reservations, so contact facilities in advance. (TabiTabi JAPAN Editorial Team)

📚 Sources

This article is based on information published by local municipalities and tourism associations such as Makinohara City and Shimada City, guidance from facilities and tearooms where you can learn about the history and culture of tea, and access information for Mount Fuji Shizuoka Airport. Business hours, fees, and reservation requirements for observation and hands-on facilities may change, so please check each facility's or tourism association's official sources before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: About half a day for views and tearooms, or a full day including a hands-on experience
• Transport: A car is essential, as the plateau is vast and sights are scattered
• How to get around: From viewpoints you can watch aircraft take off and land beyond the tea fields
• Seasonal notes: The vivid green of new tea is best from late April to May
• What to bring: A hat and water, as there is little shade
• Also enjoy: Combine the Oigawa Railway steam train with tea-field sightseeing