Discovering Suruga: Japan’s Hidden Gem for Tea, Culture, and Cuisine

When people think about visiting Japan, the big names usually come to mind first, like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. But hidden away in between the busy capital and the famous views of Mount Fuji lies Suruga, a place that feels different from the usual tourist spots. Here, you can enjoy authentic Japanese culture, world-class tea, and the kind of warm hospitality that’s hard to find in crowded cities. Suruga isn’t just another stop along the way; it’s where traditions meet a sense of fresh creativity, which makes it a perfect spot if you want to see a side of Japan that most travelers miss.

A Taste of Suruga: Food Culture at Its Pinnacle

Suruga’s food culture is shaped by both the land and the sea. Thanks to Suruga Bay, the area is famous for its seasonal seafood like sakura shrimp, and you’ll also find a lot of local specialties featuring wasabi.

But what truly defines Suruga is their tea. Here, tea isn’t just something you drink, but it’s woven into daily life. Cafés and restaurants integrate it into their menus with dishes like matcha soba noodles or green tea ice cream. Even traditional meals often carry a subtle green tea influence, which reminds you that this region is the heart of Japanese tea culture.

One of the most unforgettable views in Suruga is the rolling tea terraces, with Mount Fuji often being visible in the background. Travelers can join in on tea-picking with local farmers who’ve been doing this for generations. And of course, being located in the heart of tea in Japan, there are so many amazing options to choose from. Our absolute favourites would have to be the Ichinose and Ochanoma Terraces! Both of these spots don’t just offer you some amazing tea, but also the chance to enjoy it whilst taking in all the breathtaking views that Suruga has to offer! 

This is just the beginning of what can be done within Suruga, though. For something outside the box, why not try Matcha Calligraphy? With this unique take on calligraphy, you will use matcha, not ink, to write the traditional Japanese characters. And if you want to delve into the history of the national drink, you have to visit the Tea Museum! Located on the Makinohara Tea Plantation, this museum isn’t just about educating visitors on the history of tea in Shizuoka, but is also dedicated to making sure that these practices and traditions remain alive for generations to come. If you’re feeling a little “tea’d out,” then why not head over to Shitoro-Yaki Pottery for a hands-on experience with Shimada City’s famous and unique form of pottery, Shitoro-Ware! These are just some of the amazing and fun things to do in the Suruga area. Each and every one of these experiences lets you go beyond sightseeing and truly experience how unique and beautiful Japanese culture is.

If you’d like to see what a full itinerary, including these experiences and beyond, would look like, you should check out our blog about What To Do in Suruga, where we even share our own personal experiences at these locations!

Hospitality the Suruga Way

What really stands out in Suruga is the personal touch. Unlike in crowded tourist spots, in Suruga, the pace is much slower, and the people you meet take pride in sharing their way of life. It could be a tea farmer explaining family traditions, a chef introducing you to seasonal flavors, or an artist guiding you through a workshop. Whatever you end up doing, it feels like you’ve genuinely stepped into the “real Japan,” and not just a tourist attraction.

Why Visit Now: Before the World Finds Out

Suruga is still off the radar for most tourists visiting Japan, which makes now the best time to go. The experiences feel exclusive, not because they’re luxury, but because they’re still small-scale and authentic.

If you’ve already been to Japan’s main areas, such as Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, you’ll notice how different Suruga feels with its calmer, more connected, rich history and culture. Visiting now means you’ll get to see it while it’s still a hidden gem.

Plan Your Visit with Arigato Travel

At Arigato Travel, our Custom & Multi-Day team specializes in Suruga and can help craft a trip that best fits you, whether you’re after food tours, tea workshops, or cultural experiences. If you want to go beyond the usual Japan itinerary, let us show you Suruga. It’s the perfect place for authentic connections, unforgettable experiences, and stories that you’ll want to share with everyone when you get home. Contact us today to start planning your Suruga journey.

So now that you’ve seen exactly what makes Suruga so incredibly special, not just to us but to all of Japan, we know you will want to add Suruga as a must-see destination on your next trip to Japan. From its beautiful history and gorgeous scenery, to its long-standing relationship with the country’s most beloved beverage, tea, there is no end to the amazing things that can be found in this off-the-beaten-path location. We know that with each sip, each step, and each activity, you will be left feeling the true essence of what it means to be in the land of the rising sun, and you will come home with memories that will last you a lifetime. So why not start packing, and we’ll see you there!

Featured Photo Credit: VisitSuruga Instagram

If you need a little help crafting your Suruga Itinerary, don’t forget to contact our Tailored Travel team. We’ll take care of everything for you! You can also find more information and sample trip plans on our Suruga Page!