(Photo by Camryn Rosa/Stripes Japan)
Editor’s Note: Camryn Rosa is a junior at Zama Middle High School in Camp Zama. If you or someone you know would like to contribute your story to Stripes Japan, let us know at japan@stripes.com!
It feels only fitting that in the heart of spring, I share my most recent Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) trip. With the countryside beginning to bloom, the strawberry terraces of Izu Prefecture were the perfect place to visit. Not only was it a memorable experience, but it offered more than just fresh fruit. It was a service, making Japan more accessible through programs designed for military members and their families.
While living in Japan I have become aware of its deep connection to the seasons, and one of the most immersive ways to truly understand that is through fruit picking. Across the country, farms open their fields year-round, offering everything from winter strawberries to summer peaches and autumn grapes.
Our day began early, boarding a bus at 6 a.m. on Camp Zama bound for Izu. Along the way we learned about the region’s history, including its renowned green tea fields, which have been cultivated for generations and remain a staple of local culture. Through MWR, these opportunities become learning experiences, easy to enjoy by everyone.
I still look back fondly on the first time I went strawberry picking, but truthfully, I enjoyed this one better. Instead of going to a larger commercial operation, we went to a small, family-run strawberry farm tucked in the countryside, making the overall experience feel even more personal. It was so endearing having elderly Japanese women greet us, their dedication and hard work was evident in every thriving row of deliciousness.
The layout was unlike anything I had seen before. There were greenhouse tunnels that were aligned in rows, almost resembling a technique like terrace farming and inside the greenhouse tunnels of ripe red strawberries stretched endlessly. Everyone was given 60 minutes to pick and eat as much as they liked. (Every fruit picking place in Japan seems to have that in common). In reality, most of us did not need that long as we rapidly picked and ate every juicy strawberry in sight. Let’s just say, it did not take long to realize arriving hungry was essential.
To top it off, a small shop was located across the street, filled with strawberry-themed souvenirs like dried fruit, homemade jam, strawberry popcorn and embroidered hand towels.
Trips like these highlight what MWR does best. For many stationed in Japan, it can be easy to stay within the familiarity of base life (what I call “mini America”). MWR programs create a bridge, offering structured, affordable ways to explore local culture without the stress of navigating challenges, like language barriers, that can be intimidating while living in a foreign country. Every MWR trip I have been on has had a knowledgeable Japanese tour guide, who makes every excursion stress-free.
Even if you miss out on strawberry picking do not fret! According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, no matter what season, people can travel to countless places for different fruits. For example, Yamanashi Prefecture itself features many options throughout the year. In summer, enjoy peaches in Fuefuki and Kofu city, as well as cherries. In the same area, grape picking can be a fun way to make Japan’s chilly weather in the fall and winter more tolerable. Additionally, Nagano Prefecture contains a popular city named Matsumoto known for apple picking. Undoubtedly, each location offers a one-of-a-kind experience, helping build a deeper connection to Japan’s many traditions.
To sum it up, ultimately MWR’s trip served as a reminder to take advantage of the resources on base to explore off base. Check out your local MWR or ITT office to see what upcoming trips you and your family will enjoy. I have been on several myself and each one is unlike the last. Who knew Japan is full of adventures waiting just beyond the base gates? And sometimes, all it takes is signing up for a bus ride and bringing an appetite. いただきます (Bon appetite)!
(Photo by Camryn Rosa/Stripes Japan)
(Photo by Camryn Rosa/Stripes Japan)
Camp Zama MWR/ Outdoor Rec: https://zama.armymwr.com/programs/outdoor-recreation
More on fruit picking: https://www.japan.travel/en/au/experience/adventures/fruit-picking/
AloJapan.com