Ishii Farm Fig Picking Experience Report
I recently enjoyed fig picking at Ishii Farm in the Sanogawa area, one of the 100 most beautiful rural villages in Japan.
Mr. Ishii will kindly teach you what kind of figs to pick!
Date: September 15, 2024
Written by: Kayo Arita
Photos by: Junichiro Morinaga
My Satoyama Fig Picking Adventure and Mr. Ishii
Ishii Farm is nestled in a corner of the beautiful Sanogawa area in Midori Ward, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture. This area has also been selected as one of Japan's 100 most beautiful rural villages. Just an hour and a half by car from the heart of Tokyo, I escaped the hustle and bustle of the city and experienced fig picking at Ishii Farm, surrounded by lush greenery. As someone who grew up in Tokyo, I was impressed by the deliciousness of the figs, and above all, by Mr. Ishii's personality.
What is the access to Ishii Farm?
Ishii Farm is most conveniently accessed by car. Take the Sagamihara exit off the Chuo Expressway, and after crossing the railroad crossing near Fujino Station, go north through the small tunnel. The scenery will instantly transform into a traditional satoyama landscape. Just driving along the relaxed and peaceful forest road feels like a retreat.
It was about a 15-minute drive from the Sagamiko Interchange. When I saw the Ishii Farm sign amidst the lush greenery, I felt a sense of relief. Mr. Ishii greeted me with a warm smile, and the well-maintained fields gently welcomed visitors. As soon as I stepped onto the farm, I was enveloped by a sweet fragrance, and there, white figs were heavily laden on the branches.
Finally! It's time for fig picking!
The fig picking is finally about to begin! After receiving a careful explanation from Mr. Ishii, I take my basket and head to the field. Beneath the fig leaves, which sparkle in the sunlight, colorful fruits are hidden.
Mr. Ishii tells me to focus on picking the large, ripe fruits that feel soft to the touch. I carefully select the fruits and harvest them, then immediately take a bite. The juice spreads throughout my mouth, along with the aroma of the fig. The firm, sweet flesh and the fresh, juicy texture are irresistible. The fig field is located on a slope that is also suitable for tea fields, so the figs, grown while basking in the abundant sunlight, are exceptionally delicious. The taste varies depending on the size and ripeness, making it fun to compare them!
Ishii Farm is not only a fig orchard.
Ishii Farm offers a variety of attractions beyond just fig picking. There are white and black goats, a swing in the sky, ziplines and other playground equipment for children to enjoy. Next to the fig orchard is an open space where you can have a barbecue, or if children gather, they can play soccer, which Mr. Ishii loves. In addition, there are many places of interest around the farm, such as walking trails with beautiful scenery and historic shrines and temples.
It's a place where anyone can enjoy themselves, whether you want to relax in nature, are interested in agricultural experiences, or want to eat delicious food!
It was an unforgettable and enriching experience.
Fig picking at Ishii Farm is more than just a harvesting experience. It's a rich experience where you can feel the land and the seasons with all five senses amidst beautiful nature. I will never forget Mr. Ishii's warm hospitality and the taste of the figs grown with love, and I hope to visit again!
If you're tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, want to retreat, or want to enjoy delicious figs in beautiful nature with your family or friends, why not take a relaxing break?
Please visit Ishii Farm, I highly recommend it!