Chiba Prefecture
On a sunny day out in Chiba Prefecture a couple of weeks ago, we enjoyed strawberry picking and a visit to Mother Farm.
Chiba Prefecture, located in the Kanto region of Honshu, Japan, is a picturesque area known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and modern attractions.
Directly East of Tokyo, its proximity to the capital makes it an attractive destination for both locals and international tourists. The prefecture is characterised by its coastal beauty, lush landscapes, and bustling urban centres.
While Chiba Prefecture is proud of its historical roots, it also embraces modernity with a wide range of attractions.
Strawberry Picking
Our first stop was at 富津アクアファーム “Futtsu Aqua Farm” for a session of delicious Strawberry Picking!
Visitors pay for a set amount of time within which to pick and eat as many fresh strawberries as you can!
Unfortunately you cannot collect them to take home, but they do encourage you to eat as many as you can!
From the moment we entered the large greenhouse we were hit with the sweet fragrance of strawberry fruits.
Friendly bumblebees were busy flying around pollinating the flowers, and did not seem to be bothered by the visitors.
The shop sells various strawberry products and if you are lucky some baby strawberry plants, we bought two plants to take home for our balcony!
Futtsu Aqua Farm – Getting There
There are a number of options using public transport however they all include numerous rail transfers and/or busses.
If you have a car then it might be worth driving. There is a large carpark at Futtsu Aqua Farm.
Search for Futtsu Aqua Farm on Google Maps and use the directions function to best choose your method.
Mother Farm
Our second stop was at マザー牧場 “Mother Farm”
Nestled in the serene countryside of Chiba Prefecture, Mother Farm is a delightful haven where nature, agriculture, and fun come together in perfect harmony. Established in 1962, this expansive farm offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor experiences, education, and entertainment, making it a popular destination for families, tourists, and nature enthusiasts alike.
One of the highlights of Mother Farm is its diverse collection of animals. From adorable sheep and goats to playful rabbits and exotic alpacas and capybara, the farm offers numerous opportunities for visitors to interact with and learn about these creatures.
Dining at Mother Farm
The farm-to-table dining experience at Mother Farm is a culinary delight. Restaurants on the farm use ingredients sourced directly from the fields and gardens, ensuring freshness and quality. Seasonal menus reflect the farm’s harvest, offering a taste of Chiba’s agricultural heritage.
We enjoyed a feast of Genghis Kahn which is a Japanese dish of iron grilled meats and vegetables where diners grill for themselves right at the table!
Perfect For Friends & Families
Mother Farm in Chiba is more than just a farm, it is a celebration of nature, agriculture, and community. With its diverse attractions, educational programs, and seasonal events, the farm provides a memorable experience for all who visit.
Whether interacting with animals, exploring flower gardens, or enjoying farm-fresh dining, Mother Farm offers a unique and enriching journey into the heart of nature.
Mother Farm – Getting There
Similarly to Aqua Farm, getting to Mother Farm from Tokyo using public transport will likely involve a couple of rail transfers.
However, there is a dedicated bus service to Mother Farm from Kimitsu Eki Minamiguchi, once you arrive in Kimitsu.
Once again, driving is a good option if you can. There is a very large carpark at mother farm and prices are not so bad!
Summary
If you are on a longer visit to Japan, say two weeks or more, or you are a resident then I highly recommend both Aqua Farm and Mother Farm as an enjoyable family and friends day trip out of Tokyo!
I went with my wife, a couple of her work friends one of which brought their delightfully cute son who really enjoyed being able to touch the animals, we had a great time.
Thank you for reading!
