Green tea Nihoncha means green tea produced in Japan. Green tea is made by immediately heating the tea leaves and drying them after harvest to prevent them from oxidizing, and there are various types of green tea – gyokuro, matcha, bancha, hojicha, genmai-cha, etc. At green tea factories around the Ohigawa area, each makes unique and original green tea in terms of umami, bitterness, flavor, and color (the color of green tea when steeped). Sakura ebi Touted as the Jewel of Suruga Bay, Sakura ebi or Sakura shrimps are only 4 to 5 cm in size, yet they pack full of umami and flavor. They are translucent while in the water but once on the shore, their light pink pigments become more apparent, making them appear pink in color just like Sakura, or cherry blossoms. For conservation purposes and to protect the ecosystem, only the Shizuoka Prefecture has the permit to harvest them in Japan. tea plantation While serving guests with green tea is an often practiced custom, green tea is deeply rooted in the lives of Japanese people. The plush green and the aroma of green tea not only have a relaxing effect but also enhance the flavor of the dishes you’re having. Known as the largest producer of green tea in Japan, Shizuoka Prefecture has the perfect climate, advanced cultivation skills and methods, resulting in accounting for over 40% of all the tea fields in Japan. Yaizu Southern Bluefin Tuna boat-wrap sushi At Yaizu Port facing Suruga Bay, where the Oi-River flows, you can enjoy various things such as Yaizu Southern Bluefin Tuna, which is called “red diamond” because of its elegant fat and sweetness, bonito flakes which are royal gifts, as well as sashimi and tataki. The bonito fishes used to make these delicious dishes are caught here. 2019 COOL JAPAN AWARD WINNER “OKUOIKOJO STATION” In the middle basin of the Oi-River, the Oi-River Railway, a steam locomotive, runs between the fresh green tea garden and the magnificent Oi-River. At Kawanehon Town there is a tea garden located over 500m above sea level and is called the “tea-producing area in the sky”, here you can see a magical landscape filled with fog. “Cha no Ma” where you can enjoy tea while facing the superb view of the tea garden Tea experience unique to the Oi-River basin With the “Tea room” experience (tea in tea garden space with a superb view), you can enjoy taste testing various teas, a high quality green tea / matcha tea room experience in a Japanese garden, tea farm visit, hand massage experience, tea girl experience, and tea factory tour. ”DREAM SUSPENSION BRIDGE” WITH BEAUTIFUL EMERALD GREEN LAKE SURFACE You must experience the spectacular scenery of Okuoikojo Station, which won the Okuoiko Cool Japan Award, and the Sumata Gorge Yume rope bridge. Kayaking experience where you can fully enjoy the nature at Okuoi This is a kayaking experience for beginners. You can paddle a kayak leisurely on a quiet, wide lake with no current. You can enjoy the magnificent Oi River, and a paragliding experience with a view of Mt Fuji is also recommended. Sake of the Oi-River basin Please enjoy the local sake brewed with brewer’s rice and the underground water from the Oi-River basin originating in the Southern Alps, which is also popular overseas.