Nitori Kanko Orchard, Yoichi

Nitori Kanko Orchard, formerly known as Yamamoto Tourist Orchard, is a 15-17 hectare fruit farm located in Yoichi-cho, Hokkaido, approximately one hour's drive from Sapporo. Yoichi is one of Japan's top wine-producing regions, situated alongside the Sea of Japan, and the town is also home to the famous Nikka Whisky distillery. The orchard represents Hokkaido's agricultural heritage and has become a popular agritourism destination, particularly during the summer months when 70% of customers are international tourists.

The farm cultivates strawberries, pears, grapes, blueberries, peaches, cherries, apples, and chestnuts, with the fruit-picking season running from mid-June to early November. The orchard grows over 10 different cultivars of cherries, including sato nishiki, benishuho, summit, and nanyo varieties. The farm's commitment to sustainable agriculture is evident in its use of organic compost made from rapeseed grounds, soybeans, and millet, with minimal agricultural chemicals, allowing fruits to be eaten directly from the trees.

Visitors can choose from unlimited all-you-can-eat picking courses priced at 2,000 yen for adults, 1,500 yen for elementary school students, and 700 yen for children aged 3-5. The pricing remains consistent regardless of which fruit is in season, and when multiple varieties are available simultaneously, guests can sample different fruits at no additional charge. The orchard features a rest house where visitors can purchase fresh vegetables, fruit juice, and the signature apple pie for 380 yen. The facility includes free parking for 200 cars and 10 buses.

The orchard is located approximately 5 minutes by car from the Yoichi Interchange. From Yoichi Station, the farm is a 5-7 minute taxi ride costing approximately 1,350-1,400 yen. Visitors can reach Yoichi from Sapporo Station via Otaru Station, with the train journey taking approximately one hour. The orchard operates seven days a week throughout the season.