Hiruzen Jersey Land, Dairy ranch in Maniwa, Japan
Hiruzen Jersey Land is a dairy ranch in Maniwa, Japan, built around a herd of Jersey cows raised on open pastures at roughly 2,300 feet (about 700 meters) above sea level. The farm produces fresh milk on-site and processes it into dairy goods sold in its own shop and restaurant.
The Hiruzen plateau has long been used for cattle grazing because of its cool highland climate and grassy terrain. Over time, Jersey cows were introduced to the area for their high-fat milk, and the farm grew into a destination that combines dairy production with visitor access.
The taste of Jersey milk is what surprises many visitors most: it is noticeably thicker and creamier than regular cow milk. The farm shop sells yogurt and ice cream made from it, and these are the items most people take home.
The ranch is easiest to reach by car, as public transport connections to the area are limited. Visitors coming from farther away may want to pair the stop with other nearby sights in the Hiruzen area to make the most of the trip.
In August, the farm grounds fill with sunflower fields, and in October the same areas turn into cosmos flower fields, making the place look very different depending on when you visit. The restaurant also serves beef from cattle raised on the same farm, so milk and meat come from the same animals visitors can see grazing outside.
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