Sweet Surprise at Tsugaike Ski Resort

After an epic day skiing at Tsugaike Kogen, I wandered into a little local convini —Yamazaki Shop (12840-1 Chikuniotsu, Otari)—just down the road from the resort. I wasn’t expecting much, maybe a warm drink or a snack. But what I found was next-level. Strawberries. Giant ones. Literally as big as my palm. I had to do a double take. Perfectly red, glossy, and fragrant, they were irresistibly sweet with just the right touch of tartness. I later found out they were likely Benihoppe—a premium variety often grown in Nagano and Shizuoka. It made total sense, because they tasted like they’d been picked at the exact perfect moment. Eating those strawberries outside the shop, snow still clinging to my boots, with the mountains glowing in the late afternoon light—pure magic. One of those unexpected, unforgettable travel moments.