Harvest WondersStrawberries, plums and bamboo in Kyoto Prefecture
After passing the middle of February, Kyoto Prefecture slowly begins to make its way towards spring. March is certainly full of the signs of spring. And today, with the advantages of greenhouses, Kyoto’s Prefectural farmers, spring is often much more colorful than usual. The southern areas around Muko City, Joyo City and Seika Town, are especially wellknown for their flowers, strawberries, bamboo and plums. Travel a bit south this month and relax in an agricultural paradise.
Seika Town (Strawberries)
Seika Town has long been a powerful and prosperous agricultural area. Nowadays, in spring, the town explodes with tulips everywhere. The town is also playing an important part in the massive Kansai Science City, known for its 21st century science projects. However, the town’s main harvest is strawberries, grown in green houses. From mid-March to mid-May, visitors can pick strawberries and, of course, eat as many as they like. Kawanishi Sightseeing Strawberry Orchard: a 20-min walk from Kintetsu Komada Stn. or JR Shimo Komada Stn.; 10:00-16:00 ; reservation necessary (0774) 94-5230. Access: Kintetsu line to Shinhosono Stn.
Muko City (Bamboo)
Muko City is known as “a healthy city” because of its rich natural surroundings. Located in the heart of the Otokuni area, the city was the home of the Japanese capital (Nagaokakyo) from 784-794. Today, many historical sights remain in the city. Muko is also a popular destination for bamboo grove walking and bamboo shoot hunting. Muko bamboo shoots are famous for their soft texture and beautiful white color. Access: JR Tokaido kakueki local line to Mukomachi Stn.
Joyo City (Plums)
Joyo City is located halfway along the ancient, important route that linked the ancient capitals of Kyoto and Nara. Because of its mild climate, the city has long prospered from its rich farming and orchard harvests. Plums are one of the city’s most important and valuable agricultural assets. Aodani Bairin (plum orchard) has a several thousand trees, and is open, free of charge, through March, and has been a much loved place to stroll since the Kamakura Period (1185-1333). Some of Japan’s finest umeshu (plum wine) is produced here. Tel (0774) 56-4019. Access: JR Nara line to Yamashiro Aodani Stn (for the plum orchard), and JR Nara line Joyo Stn. (for Joyo City).