tourist spot in shizuoka japan

• The great view of Mt. Fuji
• Learn about the profound appeal of Mt. Fuji
• Enjoy yourself around Mt. Fuji
• Tracing the journey of water from Mt. Fuji
• Onsen Hot Springs
• Golf Tourism in Gotemba Oyama area
• Golf Tourism in Izu area
• Golf Tourism in Western region
• Tokaido Highway
• Shizuoka National Parks
• Travel like locals
• Meet the locals
• The Izu Region
• The Fuji Region
• The Central Region
• The Western Region
• Enjoy a journey to be healed by the natural scenery while touring around the Izu Peninsula!
• Enjoy a trip around the foothills of Mt. Fuji while taking in the local cuisine and activities!
• A trip to experience the local cuisine and unexplored areas of the western part of the prefecture
• How to walk around the hometown of Mt. Fuji! Enjoy the best local cheap eats and shopping!

Atami Station

Mishima station, shin-fuji station, shizuoka station, kakegawa station, hamamatsu station.

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E Shizuoka Prefecture - Official Tourism Site - off the beaten path Fuji

Exploreshizuoka shizuoka prefecture - official tourism site - off the beaten path fuji, welcome to shizuoka prefecture.

For hundreds of years, the Tokaido highway connecting Tokyo and Kyoto has flourished as an essential transportation route. Today the Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train follows roughly the same route. It takes about one hour to travel from Tokyo to Shizuoka, and one-and-a-half hours from Shizuoka to Kyoto. If you step off the Shinkansen at Shizuoka, you can enjoy the magnificent view of Mt. Fuji and experience a slower pace of Japanese life unlike anything in the major metropolitan regions. Shizuoka Prefecture, which stretches from east to west, can be divided into the Izu region, which is centered on the Izu Peninsula and its majestic nature; the Fuji region spreading out at the foot of Mt. Fuji; the central region, which extends from Shizuoka City to the unexplored areas of Oku-oi; and the western region, which is centered on Hamamatsu City and Lake Hamana. Be sure to check out the features of each region and the main sightseeing attractions for your trip.

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Tokai Shizuoka Healing onsen, spectacular ocean views, and iconic Mt. Fuji

• Destinations

Refresh your spirit in Shizuoka's mountains, temples and shores, depicted in art and poetry. Eat some of the country’s finest seafood and sip premium green tea

Shizuoka Prefecture is a popular urbanite destination situated midway between Tokyo and Nagoya, away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. Shizuoka has two distinct faces. One is mountainous and green, dominated by deep forests, verdant tea plantations, and Mt. Fuji —the country’s most recognizable symbol. The other face is liquid: the sea, beaches and onsen where millions come to relax and play every year.

How to Get There

Tokyo is the usual jump-off point for a journey to Shizuoka. The JR Tokaido Shinkansen can get you to the coastal hot spring resort of Atami or Shizuoka Station in an hour or less; you can use your Japan Rail Pass for this and other slower JR trains. Local trains take about three hours. Highway buses run regularly between Tokyo and Shizuoka, and take around the same time as a regular train. Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Airport, built in 2009, handles both domestic and international flights for several airlines.

• Tea fields on the Nihondaira Plateau , views of Mt. Fuji and the Pacific
• The Izu Peninsula's white-sand beaches, crystal clear waters and rugged coastline
• Two of Japan’s top-class onsen resorts, in Atami and Ito
• World-class art museums and Sunpu Castle, where shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu lived

Recommended for You

Cherry Blossoms

Forecast of first bloom

23 Mar 2024

Forecast of full bloom

02 Apr 2024

Explore Shizuoka by Area

Trending Attractions in Shizuoka

Local Specialties

Suruga Hina Dolls

Suruga hina ningyo are dolls made with rice straw and dressed in formal kimono—a style worn by the imperial court. Considered good-luck charms, they are displayed at annual festivals dedicated to children's wellbeing.

Unagi, or eel as it is called in English, is loved across Japan. In the peak of summer, households across Japan traditionally treat themselves to eel on the Day of the Ox. A dish of charcoal-grilled eel, dipped multiple times in a rich sauce and served over rice, can be enjoyed year-round. If you find yourself at Lake Hamana, in Shizuoka Prefecture, be sure to try some—the area is famous for its eel-farming industry.

Shizuoka Tea

Shizuoka has been growing tea since the mid-12th century, and its climate and water quality have made the region the country's top producer of tea. The healthy brew comes in many varieties, including fully organic.

Wasabi-zuke

Wasabi, an indispensable ingredient in Japanese cuisine, originated in Shizuoka Prefecture. Finely chopped wasabi stems that are pickled in sugar, salt and the leftover sediment from producing sake. Wasabi-zuke's unique blend of sweet and spicy is a great topping for freshly cooked white rice.

A sweet, flaky pastry with eel extract with a delicate and light texture. The savory taste goes great with coffee, tea or ice cream.

Suruga Bamboo Crafts

Suruga bamboo crafts are a sophisticated form of basketry. Young bamboo is cut thinly into strips that are woven to create elegant and delicate designs.

Seasonal Highlights

The season brings cherry blossoms in late March and April, fresh green tea at tea plantations, the Hina Matsuri (Doll Festival), feudal lord processions, and a giant kite festival.

The rainy season produces hydrangeas and irises in June, Mt. Fuji opens to climbers in July, and Izu’s beaches are lively with ocean worshippers.

The mountains and areas around the prefecture come alive with fiery autumn leaves. Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in the pleasant autumn weather. Warm beach weather lingers through September on the Izu Peninsula.

Snow-capped Mt. Fuji looks stunning, Shizuoka’s hot spring resorts warm the body and soul, and outlet malls get busy with bargain-hunters.

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• Shizuoka City

Shizuoka: Top 10 Things to Do

Climb Mount Fuji and more reasons to visit Shizuoka prefecture

Shizuoka Prefecture rests on the eastern side of Japan’s main island. The prefecture is filled with mountainous nature in the west and seaside resorts in the east.

Shizuoka attracts international and domestic travelers yearly with its stunning views and opportunities to climb the world-renowned Mount Fuji. For those looking to relax, the prefecture’s popular Izu Peninsula is home to picturesque beaches with dozens of resorts and onsen. Shizuoka’s resort-forward coast makes it a common getaway for Tokyo urbanites, with the major city only an hour or two away. For tea lovers, the prefecture’s green tea is a must-have, given that Shizuoka is Japan’s largest producer of the astringent drink.

1. Mount Fuji

Almost synonymous with Japan, the world-renowned Mount Fuji is a true natural treasure and icon of the country. The mountain, which is actually an inactive volcano, has the highest peak in Japan at 3,776 meters (12,388 feet) tall. Mount Fuji rises in the north of Shizuoka on the border of nearby Yamanashi Prefecture. Three of the four mountain trails are located in Shizuoka and are open from July 10th through September 10th. During the relatively short two-month period, international and domestic hikers flood the area for the opportunity to climb the world-famous mountain. The experience is physically demanding yet rejuvenating as hikers leave their worries at the mountain’s base and persevere upward with the sole objective of reaching the summit.

Before starting the climb, many hikers visit Fujisan Hongu Sengen Shrine in Fujinomiya, a 17th-century shrine constructed to appease Fuji’s destructive eruptions. It is customary for climbers to purify themselves in the shrine’s Wakutama Pond before beginning their journey. Many hikers aim to reach Mount Fuji’s peak at sunrise. At this mystical hour, the sky is a canvas of oranges, reds, and pinks. The sun takes its place in the sky and illuminates the endless field of clouds that gather below the mountain’s peak. While Mount Fuji itself is truly stunning, visitors should not overlook the abundance of nature at its base. In the Asagiri-kogen Highlands, Lake Tanuki acts as a mirror, reflecting Mt. Fuji, the sky, and surrounding greenery in a truly mesmerizing view. Nearby, the enchanting Shiraito Falls cascade down the cliffside in a wall of water.

Mount Fuji is interwoven in Japanese culture. The sacred landmark has inspired generations with its impressive form and mystical atmosphere. The climb to the summit is not only a physical journey but a spiritual one. Given the mountain’s cultural impact, it is a required destination for those traveling to Shizuoka.

• Kitayama, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka 418-0112
• ¥1000+ (voluntary donation)

2. Izu Peninsula

Resorts, hot springs, beaches, and nature galore! Izu Peninsula, located on the eastern side of Shizuoka, is a vacationer’s paradise. The area’s diverse destinations and mild climate lure travellers yearly with its relaxing, yet adventurous offerings. Izu’s eastern coast is densely populated with resorts and onsen, with the three major cities being Atami , Ito, and Shimoda . Visitors can soak in the area’s renowned hot springs or soak in the sun on its beaches. Juxtaposed with the commercialized east coast is the wilderness of the west. Izu’s western coast is significantly less developed than the eastern side, making it a popular getaway for avid hikers and nature lovers. Travelers can explore the relatively untouched environments of Irozaki Cape and Dogashima, which encapsulate the natural beauty of the peninsula with their rocky coastlines, hidden caves, and endless views of the ocean. The western coast also offers individuals the coveted opportunity to observe Mount Fuji. Of course, due to the nearly island-esque nature of Izu, its seafood offerings are unparalleled. Visitors can also travel inland and explore popular destinations such as the Izu Highlands and Mount Omuro .

Atami is an onsen town on the northeastern side of Izu Peninsula and opens up to Sagami Bay. With its hot springs and close proximity to Tokyo, the area is one of Japan’s top onsen resorts. The town is home to dozens of ryokan, some of which offer guests open-air hot springs, giving them magnificent views of the bay as they submerge themselves in the steaming water. While unwinding, guests can snack on the onsen’s appropriately named treat, onsen manju, which are soft steamed buns filled with sweet bean paste. After visitors heal their minds and bodies in the hot waters, they can explore other popular spots in the area, such as Atami Castle and MOA Museum of Art . Atami Castle was built in 1959 as a tourist attraction and is home to multiple floors of exhibits. The structure’s presence alone is impressive, yet its main lure is its stunning panoramic views of the city and ocean. For those looking to immerse themselves in culture, the MOA museum boasts a large collection of Japanese and East Asian artwork. After visitors peruse the artwork, they can visit the museum’s Japanese-style garden and tea house where they can end their day sipping on the region’s exquisite tea.

Atami is a seaside resort town about 50 minutes away from Tokyo by shinkansen, making it a popular weekend getaway destination. In Japan's boom days, Atami was the weekend vacation of ch..

4. Jogasaki Coast

Photo: T.Kai / Shutterstock.com

The Jogasaki Coast runs along the eastern side of Izu Peninsula and is situated between the cities of Ito and Shimoda. Although the coastline is located on the more developed side of the peninsula, its rugged wilderness feels isolated from the commotion. The coastline offers visitors a nearly ten kilometer hike through the area’s natural beauty. The coast’s unique shape was formed thousands of years ago when lava from Mount Omuro ’s eruption spilled across the land. Jagged rocks, some barren and some interwoven with greenery, meet the Pacific Ocean in a foamy collision before transitioning into clear waters. The omnipresent hum of the tide’s push and pull composes a soothing melody that follows visitors throughout the hike. From the coastline, travelers can observe Oshima Island , which is a volcanic island off the coast of Izu. Other highlights along the trail are the Kadowaki Suspension Bridge, where visitors can walk 48 meters above the ocean; and Kadowaki Lighthouse, which has a free observation deck that provides hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean.

5. Kakegawa Castle

Nestled in the city of Kakegawa is a historic castle whose presence alone speaks of times past. Kakegawa Castle was first constructed in the late 1400s. The structure’s white facade gives it an ethereal presence as it seemingly blends into the sky with the passing clouds. The castle and surrounding grounds have exchanged hands throughout its history, and in 1854 it was severely damaged by an earthquake. Later, in 1994, the castle was rebuilt using traditional Japanese construction methods, the first and only of its kind, with the main building being entirely reconstructed using wood. One of the main features of the castle is Ni-no-Maru Goten, or the daimyo’s palace. This single-story building is where the feudal lord would have lived, carried out administrative duties, and performed ceremonies. The palace’s traditional tatami floors, dark wood detailing, and displays of weapons and armor offer guests a glimpse into the Edo period. The robust atmosphere of Kakegawa Castle is mesmerizing and fills visitors with an idealized longing for a time they will never know.

6. Kunozan Toshogu Shrine

Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, is the true physical resting place of the deity-status leader and a significant influence on the design of Toshogu Shrine in Nikko, Tochigi. Ieyasu lived out his final years in Sumpu Castle and requested to be buried on nearby Mount Kunozan. Shortly after Ieyasu’s passing, the second Shogun honored his request and ordered the shrine to be built.

Originally, guests had to climb over a thousand stone steps to visit the shrine, and today, many still do. While the trek up the mountainside is daunting, it offers beautiful views of Suruga Bay and spiritually connects visitors to the experience as their footsteps mimic those of shadows past. Today, guests can bypass the intimidating staircase and use a ropeway at Nihondaira Plateau to reach the shrine instead.

Upon entering the shrine, visitors will first see Romon Gate, easily one of the shrine’s most impressive structures. This massive gate is painted bright red with blue, green, and yellow accents, and silently commands respect from the shrine’s visitors. Past the gate, stands the main hall. The building’s exterior is colored black, making its already vibrant detailing more saturated. Red gates line the walkways. Mesmerizing golden dragons and intricate patterns of blue, red, and green decorate the roofs. The grandeur of the shrine is truly hypnotizing. Deep in the forest, Ieyasu is enshrined with two famous military commanders by his sides. The leader’s tomb exudes tranquil sacredness. The relatively simplistic stone structure is surrounded by low hanging trees and instead of vibrant coloring, is decorated naturally with moss. For more historical learning, guests can visit a museum, just outside the shrine grounds, that holds artifacts from the Tokugawa family.

7. Miho no Matsubara

Some views must be seen to be believed. Miho no Matsubara is a pine grove along Suruga Bay well known for its surreal views of Mount Fuji. The area was designated as a World Cultural Heritage site in 2013 in conjunction with Mount Fuji’s designation. Twisted pine trees rise in the distance as Suruga Bay laps against the rocky shore. The moving tide creates a path of white foam that points to the recognizable snow-capped form of Mount Fuji. The enchanting scene has captured people’s attention for generations, even inspiring the famous Ukiyo-e master, Utagawa Hiroshige to immortalize the view in his artwork. The otherworldly environment is further represented in Hagoromo no Matsu, a notable pine tree in the grove. The ancient tree is linked to a legend about a celestial maiden who left her robe on one of its tree’s branches while she bathed in the bay. A fisherman stole her garment and forced the maiden to perform a heavenly dance in return for the clothing. The centuries old tree still exists, and is recognized yearly by a nearby Noh theater performance.

• 1338-45 Miho, Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka
• Open 24 hours (Open Now)

8. Nihondaira

Nihondaira , a plateau near Suruga Bay, entices travellers with its magnificent panoramic views, which many consider some of the best in Japan. From the plateau’s summit, visitors are treated to an expansive scene. Vibrant tea plantations blanket the foreground in green and melt into the distant views of Shimizu Port, Miho no Matsubara, and Izu Peninsula. Farthest away, yet towering above the conglomeration of city life, water, and forest, is the unmistakable form of Mount Fuji. A popular spot to observe the panorama is Yume Terrace, which translates to Dream Terrace. The observation deck lives up to its name by giving travellers access to a 360-degree balcony. The Nihondaira Ropeway offers additional perspectives of the landscapes and acts as transportation to the nearby Kunozan Toshogu Shrine. After sightseeing, visitors can refuel with the Shizuoka’s renowned green tea and its similarly flavored taiyaki, which are fish-shaped cakes.

9. Oigawa Railway

Oigawa Railway is a train system reminiscent of the early days of industrialized travel with its operational steam locomotives. Despite being decades old, these trains run daily from Shin-Kanaya Station to Senzu. The vehicles’ slick black exteriors, appropriately loud mechanics, and billowing trails of steam create an immersive experience. Visitors can ride the trains through the picturesque countryside, traveling alongside the Oi River, lush tea fields, and cherry blossom blooms in the springtime. For a more relatable touch of nostalgia for younger generations, the railway offers train rides on Thomas the Tank Engine, an authentic steam locomotive recreated to look like the popular children’s show character. In addition to the Oigawa main line, is the Ikawa line. The Ikawa line, or Southern Alps Abt line, is the only Abt system in Japan, which is a specialized rack-and-pinion railway created for elevated mountain travel. The Ikawa line starts in Senzu and travels to Ikawa. While this line does not include steam locomotives, its bright red trains take travellers through a number of unique spots. The Ikawa line not only includes the steepest railway in Japan, but also Seki no Sawa Bridge, which is the highest railway above a riverbed in the country. Train travellers can also stop by Okuoikojo Station, which is an unstaffed station popular for its photogenic waterside views and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty of the Southern Alps throughout the ride.

10. Shuzenji Temple

Shuzenji Temple, located in the Shuzenji Onsen resort town on Izu Peninsula, was established in the 9th century by Kobo Daishi, a Buddhist monk and founder of Shingon Buddhism. The small temple, nestled among the trees, is the picture of tranquility. Exposed wooden detailing decorates the facade, creating a humble naturalistic feel. The peaceful scenery is extremely deceiving though, as the temple was the site of inter-family power struggles and tragedies. In the 12th century, Minamoto Yoritomo, the first Shogun of the Kamakura Shogunate, imprisoned his brother, Noriyori, on the temple grounds, where Noriyori was either murdered or committed suicide. Later Yoritomo’s son, Yoriie, who was next in line for Shogun, was assassinated in a plot devised by his maternal grandfather, consequently ending the Minamoto family line. Yoriie’s eerie death mask is displayed in a nearby museum. While in the area, visitors should also enjoy the famous hot springs. Tokko-no-Yu, a river that flows near the temple, is Izu’s oldest hot spring and today functions as a free hot spring foot bath. The area is rich in natural scenery and history, making Shuzenji Temple a must-see in Shizuoka.

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40+ epic things to do in Shizuoka, Japan

By: Author Brittany

Posted on Last updated: February 17, 2023

Before visiting Shizuoka Prefecture, I assumed my trip would be all about Japan’s tallest mountain. The chance to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji is a bucket list item, for sure. But it’s not the  only bucket list item! Shizuoka’s Izu Peninsula is a food lover’s dream and an adventurer’s paradise. Don’t believe me? Here are 42 things you need to do in Shizuoka!

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on or purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional charge to you. 

How to get to Shizuoka

Shizuoka is less than an hour’s ride on the Shinkansen from Tokyo. While the distance makes this prefecture a wonderful spot for a day trip from Tokyo, you’ll want way more than a day here!

You can ride a highway bus from Tokyo to Shizuoka. The Fujikyuko or Tokai buses will get you to Shizuoka in about two hours.

However, I recommend riding the Shinkansen. You can get reserved tickets delivered to your hotel – with same day delivery options available for hotels in Tokyo. Book your Shinkansen ticket to or from Shizuoka here and travel at speeds up to 200mph!

Still in your home country? Consider buying a JR Pass for cheaper, easy travel throughout Japan. Book it here .

Take the Shinkansen to Shizuoka

42 epic things to do in Shizuoka

1. zip line with a view of mt. fuji.

At Mishima Skywalk, you’ll get to experience three of the #1s in all of Japan! The suspension bridge is the longest walkable suspension bridge. You may get to see Mount Fuji – the tallest mountain in Japan. And you can see Suruga Bay, the country’s deepest bay, extending to 8,200 below sea level.

As you zip line nearly 1,000 feet, you’ve got time to feel the adrenaline and enjoy nature all at the same time!

Zip line at Mishima Skywalk

Want to continue the adventure? Take to the trees with Mishima Skywalk’s adventure course, auto-belay climbing, or take an off-road Segway excursion!

If you want to experience the suspension bridge with an English-speaking guide, you can book a tour here .

2. Eat ice cream under a hanging sky garden

The fun at Mishima Skywalk doesn’t stop with the zip line! The Sky Garden is an Instagrammer’s paradise. With a ceiling of live flowers hanging in baskets, you can shop and eat under flowers in bloom year round!

I was a big fan of the ice cream (made with milk from cows who live at the base of Mount Fuji) topped with colorful Konpeitō candies. So kawaii ! And don’t miss the daifuku cakes – fresh strawberries wrapped in mochi dough!

Sky Garden ice cream at Mishima Skywalk

3. Leave your mark in Shizuoka

At Mishima Skywalk, you can purchase a wooden charm with a flower seed pasted on top. Make a wish and drop the charm from the bridge. Your flower will grow and beautify the region for many seasons to come!

Planting flowers

4. Taste cherry blossom sweets

Togetsuen is a high class confectionary in the city of Mishima. The pastry chef, Takeshi Ayabe, is the third generation to run this shop. He trained in New York and when the white hat comes off, he’s a reggae DJ who’s played around the world – including Jamaica!

Mr. Takeshi Ayabe

The day we visited, though, the chef’s hat was on and I enjoyed a beautiful afternoon tea treat! The Mishima Sakura is made with a special blend of shiso, grated chestnut and brown sugar covered with a sweet white bean bun. This paired perfectly with a salted petal cherry blossom infusion – a salty balance to the sweet Mishima Sakura.

Mishima Sakura at Togetsuen

Don’t forget to pick up cookies featuring Mishima’s mascots: Mishimarokun and his girlfriend Mishimarukochan. The cookies feature local flavors and pair perfectly with a cup of tea in the afternoon.

Mishimarokun and Mishimarukochan

5. See the cherry blossoms

The climate of Izu Peninsula means that some kind of flower is in bloom all year round! If you’re set on seeing the cherry blossom, though, you’ll find the beautiful, pink blooms in Kawazo Town in early spring. Want to go with the pros? Here’s a tour that will show you all the best spots for cherry blossoms in February and March !

Throughout the rest of the year, you’ll find lavender, hydrangeas, plum blossoms, daffodils, hibiscus and more!

6. Learn to pray at a Shinto shrine

All over Japan, you’ll find shrines. Some are big and some are small. And some are Buddhist while others are Shinto (the indigenous Japanese religion )

If you find yourself at a Shinto shrine, there are a few things you need to know. 1. Never walk directly under the center of a gate – the middle of the road is reserved for the gods. 2. There’s a special way to purify yourself before praying using a ladle of water at the temizuya (fountain). 3. To pray, toss a ¥5 or ¥50 yen coin for luck.  Then bow twice, clap your hands twice, say a prayer, then bow once more.

Purification ritual at a Shinto shrine

Mishima Taisha Shrine dates back to at least the 8th century and is known as a shrine of high status. If the history doesn’t impress you, this shrine was the prayer spot of choice for the first samurai leader, Minamoto no Yoritomo.

Mishima Taisha Shinto Shrine

7. Visit a wind chime artisan

Summertime in Shizuoka is HOT! But relief comes with a soft breeze that is often heard before it’s felt. Residents of the region will tell you that just hearing the tinkle of a furin ( wind chime) gives relief from the heat.

In Mishima City, there’s an artisan who is making the town just a little bit cooler. Visit the Nikko Factory Shop where you can buy a wind bell with local imagery that’s hand painted on blown glass. Or arrange for a class to make your own!

Wind chimes in Mishima

Throughout the year, you may run into the owner of the shop and the artisan behind the beautiful glass carrying his wind chime cart around town and passing out information about Mishima!

Wind chime cart

8. Test your bravery with wasabi ice cream

Fresh wasabi

Did you know that wasabi changes its flavor depending on the grater used? Traditional graters (like the one you probably have in your kitchen) only aerate the wasabi a small amount, leaving flavor left unearthed. The traditional grater in Japan is shark skin. While this aerates the wasabi a little more, there’s still more flavor inside the root. So Yamamoto Foods created their own grater. This metal grater is embossed with the Japanese characters for “wasabi” and provide a smooth, creamy and spicy wasabi paste. Eat it quickly, though! True wasabi loses its flavor after about 15 minutes’ contact with the air.

wasabi ice cream

At the Yamamoto Foods shop, you can try wasabi with ice cream – that spicy + cool combination is a unique one! Or create a savory wasabi rice dish that’s known as “crying rice” in the town of Kawazu.

Crying rice

Whatever you choose, it’s sure to be a winner!

9. Fill your water bottle at a motion activated water pump

At “Megumi-no-ko” in Mishima, a water fountain is manned by the statues of a little girl and boy. When you approach the fountain, they say (in Japanese) “Hello! This is the delicious water of Mishima. Please try it! It is safe to drink. Please try it!”

At “Tsurebe-ko,” just across the street from the wind chime shop, little boy and girl characters pump water from the well. These characters are dressed in costumes made by local volunteers and changed seasonally.

Tsurebe-ko drinking fountain

Mishima’s water began as snow on Mt. Fuji, before melting and flowing under rocks and reemerging as clear water springs. This town’s clean water is very important to them, and this is a great spot to fill your bottle!

10. Get picked up by a muscular chef

At FOODO, the food is fresh and delicious. Sushi is expertly prepared, tempura vegetables are cooked using a healthy method and the karaage (fried chicken) is finger lickin’ good!

Sushi platter at FOODO

The owner also owns a gym, and somehow it came up that he can carry women in his arms. And somehow… it happened to me! This was definitely the most surprising end to a meal I’ve ever experienced!

FOODO owner and Brittany

11. Catch a glimpse of the Double Diamond Fuji

Double Diamond Fuji is the phrase coined to describe the moment that the sun rises over Mt. Fuji and seems to rest atop the volcano. The scene is reflected in Lake Tanuki, causing double the awe-inspiring beauty. Check out this awesome phenomenon from Lake Tanuki on April 20 and August 20 .

12. Be on the lookout for puppies in prams

All across Japan, I noticed an exciting an adorable trend. There are puppies in strollers all over the place. This isn’t an activity you can book… but finding puppies in prams was one of the cutest things to do in Shizuoka!

Puppy in a stroller

13. Drink sake made from Mount Fuji water

They say that the best sake comes from places with the best water… and the water from Mount Fuji certainly is special. When you try sake from the Shizuoka prefecture, you’re getting a taste of pure mountain spring water.

Shizuoka Sake

A sake drinking tip: Never pour your own sake. Fill your neighbor’s glass, and they’ll fill yours. Now you’re ready to drink – Kampai! (That’s how you say cheers in Japan – it literally means “to empty your glass.”)

Click here to book a sake brewery tour.

If whiskey’s more your style, click here to book a tour at a local whiskey distillery.

14. Relax by the Genbe River

Mishima city has plenty to see and do (and eat!), but perhaps you need a little rest? Take a walk over the stepping stones in the Genbe River and cool off in the shade with your feet in the water. Sticking around for dusk in the summertime? Be sure to watch for the flicker of fireflies!

Be on the lookout for pieces of pottery in the river. In the olden days, it was customary to send chipped rice bowls into the river. A shard of pottery makes a great free souvenir!

15. Experience a Japanese Onsen

The Izu Peninsula of Shizuoka is well known for their Onsen (spa) culture. At the stunning Hotel New Akao Royal Wing , enjoy a private bath overlooking the Pacific Ocean or join the other guests in the public bath. Here’s a full guide on how to take a Japanese Onsen bath .

Onsen entrance at Hotel New Akao Royal Wing

Other popular Onsens on the Izu Peninsula include the Horizontal Style Hot Spring, first discovered 1,300 years ago, the Sawada Park Outdoor Bath, where you can watch the sunset from the Onsen, and Atagawa Onsen, which was discovered when a monkey was witnessed bathing here!

Got ink? If you have a tattoo, unfortunately, you’re out of luck. Only non-tattooed guests may enjoy the Onsen experience.

16. Local fruits and veggies

The Izu peninsula is proud of their rich fruit and vegetable culture. At a local grocery store, you can try your luck with a claw crane game to win a variety of Shiitake mushrooms!

Shiitake mushroom claw game

Don’t miss the korokke in Mishima. This deep fried mashed potato cake is both sweet and creamy. I tried it as a side with Mishima Skywalk’s local curry.

Korokke and curry

If you’re a fan of fruit, be sure to stop by the Izu Fruits Park, where you can join in the harvesting process of strawberries, melons and mandarins.

Want to try your hand as a farmer for a day? Here’s a tour where you can pick strawberries . And here’s one where you can pick apples !

17. Get in the Love Live! Sunshine!! spirit

18. Learn to make wagashi

At CHAKI CHAKI , you can learn how to make the kawaii sweet bean paste treats in a seasonal motif, then enjoy the fruits (er… beans) of your labor during a traditional tea ceremony.

Matcha tea ceremony at Chaki Chaki

Ms. Asuka is the owner and confectioner and she’s a kind and patient teacher. I wasn’t confident in my skills, but through her encouragement, I ended up with wagashi that I loved the look and taste of! This was one of my favorite experiences in all of Shizuoka, and the setting in the Amagi Mountain Range lends to a feeling of calm in this beautiful cafe.

Wagashi classes at Chaki Chaki

Prefer to let someone else do the hard work? Chaki Chaki is open Wednesday – Saturday. Be sure to try the wagashi, served with matcha tea from the Shizuoka Region or hand-dripped coffee – all made with water from an old gold mine. Now that’s rich!

Matcha and wagashi at Chaki Chaki

Want to book a foodie’s day out on the Izu Peninsula with wagashi lessons? Contact Nina at Cooking Holidays Izu and she’ll plan the sweetest day for you!

19. Taste fresh sakura shrimp

Suruga Bay in Shizuoka Prefecture is the only place in the world where you can try fresh sakura shrimp , named for their color – comparable to a pink cherry blossom. You’ll see bright pink patches where the shrimp is laid out to dry in spring and fall.

20. Get the royal treatment at a prince’s villa

Rakujuen Park was built in 1890 as the country villa for Prince Komatsu. From his home, you can see lava formations from an eruption by Mount Fuji 10,000 years ago and Kohama Pond, a natural spring fed by Mount Fuji.

Rakujuen Park

The park is bigger than 10 football fields and is home to cute animals like alpacas, capybaras and red pandas at their on-site zoo.

21. Eat ALL the seafood

The proximity to Suruga Bay means that the Izu peninsula is blessed with fresh, clean fish – perfect for sushi!

In Atami City, Kamatsuru offers a multi-course meal with several types of fresh seafood. The menu was in Japanese, but our waitress communicated through Google translate to let us know that one of the fish on our platter “was alive until just minutes ago.” I got out of my comfort zone with both the raw fish and the paste made from its liver.

“I was alive until minutes ago” fish

22. Go to the beach

Izu Peninsula is home to some of the best white sandy beaches and clear blue water in Japan. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, collect shells, go for a walk or just relax, there’s a beachfront for you .

23. Scuba dive with hammerheads

Just 6 miles south of Izu Peninsula, the uninhabited island of Mikomoto Island offers scuba diving with hammerhead sharks. I didn’t get to experience diving with a school of hammerheads this time, but you can be sure I’ll make my way to Minamiizu town at the southern tip of Izu next time to experience this adventure!

24. Watch out for cyclists

If you’re visiting for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Izu is hosting a portion of the cycling races! Outside the Olympics, watch for the athletic men and women who come to this region to train.

Want to have the cycling experience for yourself? Try this cycling and strawberry picking excursion . Or enjoy a full cycling holiday .

25. Have a Pikiniki

I thought sandwich lunches were a very American thing. However, the talented team at Pikiniki, near Joren Falls, are making sandwiches that are the best thing since sliced bread! I loved their spicy pork sandwich and their pancetta sandwich. All meals are served in an adorable basket and the vibe is very Melbourne .

Pikiniki sandwich lunch

26. Cut out the middleman – go to the fish market

Hop off the train at Shimizu station, where you’ll walk past fishermen’s boats on your way into the fish market. The prices you’ll find in this local market are a fraction of the price you’ll see in Tokyo.

Pop in for a look, or stay for a meal, where the fish is as fresh as possible!

Whitebait at Shizuoka fish market

27. Search for Shizuoka gastronomy on manhole covers

Don’t get so caught up in all the gorgeous scenery and interesting shops around you that you forget to look down! Manholes throughout Japan are often intricate and beautiful. Those in Shizuoka Prefecture are no different. Watch for gastronomy themed manholes scattered throughout the prefecture. You may find tea leaves, bonito, strawberries, and clams, just to name a few!

Shizuoka manhole cover

28. Visit a strawberry factory

Strawberries aren’t just for manholes! At Bon Bon Berry in Atami, you’ll step into an Instagrammer’s paradise , complete with a swing set and strawberry wigs! The beautiful presentation of fresh strawberries and strawberry desserts w ere “berry” great, too!

Freeze dried strawberries at Bon Bon Berry

I loved trying the strawberry cheesecake, created to look like a giant strawberry!

Strawberry cheesecake at Bon Bon Berry Atami

29. Take a hike

The Jogasaki Coast offers popular hiking trails with scenic views of the jagged coast line. Take a tour that will bring you to the most beautiful spots along the coast where you can enjoy the volcanic topography. Don’t miss the lighthouse and the Kadowakizaki suspension bridge.

Here’s a tour that will show you all the highlights of the Jogasaki Coast!

30. Try sakuramochi

Sakuramochi is a special sweet pink mochi confection you can find during cherry blossom season. In the center of this treat is red bean paste, which is covered by the sweet rice cake. Then, all of it is wrapped in an edible cherry blossom leaf. I missed out on this seasonal treat, but if you’re in Shizuoka in the spring, be sure to try it!

31. Old world meets new fashion

Wooden GETA shoes are traditionally worn with the kimono. As you might imagine, wooden blocks aren’t the most comfortable. Thanks to craftsman Masashi Mizutori, men, women and children can now choose a cute and comfortable modern GETA to pair with a kimono or everyday clothes.

Masashi Mizutori modern GETA

32. Learn from the master of soba

Mr. Osamu Tagata is the lead artisan and chef at Tagata, a popular soba noodle shop in Shizuoka City. You’ll find buckwheat noodles all around Japan, but you won’t find the strain of buckwheat he’s serving anywhere else on Honshu (the large island of Japan where Tokyo is located). You see, Mr. Tagata uses indigenous buckwheat from Sashima, in the west side of the Nagasaki prefecture. This is the same strain that was brought over from China 6,000 years ago.

Mr. Osamu Tagata – the soba master

Mr. Tagata is also active in preserving the indigenous planted in the Shizuoka region and hopes to serve indigenous Shizuoka soba noodles soon.

Indigenous soba in Shizuoka City

Here, you can try the noodles hot or cold. I actually prefer them cold and dipped into the sauce because you can better appreciate the true buckwheat flavor that makes these noodles so special.

This restaurant is small and popular, so I recommend arriving early to ensure a seat .

33. Celebrate with great food and a beautiful presentation

At Kakuya Bessyo the food is incredible and the presentation knocks it out of the park!

Every course came with a special feature. The raw fish course is served on a bed of ice, with a sculpture of Mount Fuij.

Kakuya Bessyo – Sushi surrounding Mount Fuji

The smoked duck is presented in a bell jar full of smoke.

Kakuya Bessyo smoked duck

And the award winning Izu beef is served on lava stone, where you can cook it as much (or as little) as you’d like. I’m from Texas and I LOVE my steak… this is some of the best I’ve ever eaten!

Kakuya Bessyo – Izu beef served on lava stones

I celebrated my birthday at Kakuya Bessyo, and was surprised with this gorgeous platter of desserts! For a special meal, don’t miss this Shizuoka city restaurant!

Kakuya Bessyo – birthday desserts

34. Take a gondola ride for panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay

Did you know Mount Fuji is most often seen in winter months? The cool, crisp air leads to less cloud cover and better visibility. I assumed that I wouldn’t get to see the famous mountain since I visited in August. But luck was on my side! For a few seconds, the clouds parted and I saw the iconic mountain.

Izu Panoramic Park with views of Mount Fuji

Even on a cloudy day, the sparkling waters of Suruga Bay prove worth the trip! (You can always BYO Fuji!)

Mount Fuji oragami

At the top of the lookout at Panoramic Park , you can enjoy a soothing foot bath at Fujimi no Ashiyu. For ladies wearing stockings, long plastic bags are provided so no one misses out on this experience!

Walk around and visit the Hyakutai Jizouson, a group of 105 Jizo Buddha statues. These statues are said to bring good luck, health, fortune and longevity and have been here for nearly 700 years. One cloth hung around a Buddha statue was a note of thanks for answering a prayer for a baby.

105 Jizo Buddha statues at Hyakutai Jizouson

35. Taste 7 levels of matcha

How matcha can you handle!? At Nanaya in Shizuoka city, it’s all about how much matcha you can eat. Try seven levels of matcha ice cream or chocolate. You know me… it’s all about going big or going home, so I went straight for the strongest matcha-flavored sweets I could get my hands on!

7 levels of matcha ice cream at Nanaya in Shizuoka city

I enjoyed trying the 7 levels of matcha chocolate with a bonus chocolate bar of hojicha (green tea leaves that have been steamed and then roasted). While level seven knocked my socks off with the rich, full, umami flavor of matcha, I found that level three was perfect for me.

7 levels of matcha chocolate at Nanaya in Shizuoka city

36. Try the unagi!

I don’t like it when my food looks at me. Especially when it’s looking at me with a face full of scary teeth. Get over the presentation, and try the eel! While the eel served in Mishima is raised in other parts of Japan, it’s special because it’s kept in Mount Fuji water for several days before becoming dinner.

Unagi – I promise the eel tastes better than it looks!

Believed to be messengers of the water gods, the people of Mishima only recently began eating eel. However, after a soldier caught and ate an eel at the end of the Edo period without consequence, the eel was deemed good to eat!

Mishima unagi

37. Visit the mountains that inspired a popular karaoke song

In 1986, Japanese singer Sayuri Ishikawa released the song “Amagi-goe.” The iconic song is now a karaoke staple all across Japan. Some of the lyrics include: If you had to be stolen away I’d rather kill you myself Sleeping together at a secret retreat The long and winding path to Joren Falls Soaring up and falling down―over your shoulder I can see burning mountains I don’t care what lies ahead Treading through the blazing fire I want to go with you down the Amagi Pass

I hope your trip to the Joren Falls involves less heartbreak and a more enjoyable experience all around. Visit the monument celebrating this song at the foot of the Joren Falls, or try your hand at fishing.

Fishing at Joren Falls

Once you make a catch, bring it to the station on the walkway to the falls, where it’ll be sprinkled with salt and cooked over a flame. Shioyaki is a favorite snack all around Japan!

Shioyaki – fish sprinkled with salt and cooked over a flame

Ever wondered how wasabi is grown? You can see the spicy root all along the walkway. Bonus: Wasabi only grows in cooler temperatures, so this is the perfect escape on a hot summer day!

Wasabi growing near Joren Falls

38. Munch on some happy rice crackers

Saiwai Senbei is the shop whose name means “happy rice crackers.” You’ll know you’ve arrived at the Shizuoka city shop when you see a kawaii sign with six gods and one goddess on a boat. Japanese legend says these gods and goddess are bringing happiness with them. I can’t think of much that brings me more happiness than food, can you?! Try their unique flavored rice crackers like seaweed, shiso or spicy red pepper.

Happy rice crackers

39. Sip tea at a shop founded in 1781

“Tea is not to be seen. It is to be drunk.” That’s the motto of Chikumeido. This means that they’re choosing leaves for flavor, even if the leaves don’t look quite as pretty. And their method is working! They’ve been a staple in Shizuoka for around 240 years, through nine generations.

At Chikumeido, you can choose from many different types of tea, ranging from affordable everyday tea to premium tea for special occasions. Created by accident but loved by many, warakake is a hybrid of gyokuro tea (premium refined green tea) and sencha tea (ordinary tea).

Chikumeido tea shop – founded in 1781

40. It’s green tea… only cooler

Times are changing in Japan, and while older generations would drink 4-5 cups of tea every day, the younger generation is drinking less green tea and more coffee.

Shizuoka is the number one green tea-producing region in Japan, and many people’s livelihoods depend on those little leaves. The innovative people of Shizuoka couldn’t just sit by and watch green tea fall out of fashion, and so they did something about it. A challenge was set forth to businesses all around Shizuoka to create a new way to enjoy green tea. And the businesses responded!

Chagama kakigori – green tea shaved ice

A shaved ice treat called kakigori is the new, cool way to enjoy green tea. At Chagama, we tried their signature two flavored kakigori, with one cup of green tea shaved ice and one cup of hojicha. Mochi and sweet red bean paste adorned both. I preferred the hojicha for it’s sweeter and more mild flavor, but both were really special local treats.

Chagama kakigori – hojicha shaved ice

End your innovative green tea experience with a green tea latte made using an espresso machine. This method of brewing tea ensures full flavor (and promises the caffeine benefits of green tea’s slow burn of energy)!

41. Learn to fly

See Mt. Fuji from a different perspective as you paraglide through the air! At Sky Asagiri , you can enjoy a tandem paraglide… all the views, none of the work!

42. Climb Mt. Fuji

And of course, there’s Fuji-san itself. Its religious significance and the sheer height (nearly 11,500 feet) make this a bucket list item for many. From early July to early September, trekkers and pilgrims from around the world flock to this part of Japan to climb the country’s tallest mountain.  Mt. Fuji is shared between Shizuoka and Yamanashi Prefectures. A climb on the Shizuoka side guarantees a shorter, steeper climb that’s less crowded than the Yamanashi hike. I didn’t get to climb Mt. Fuji this trip, but hope to come back and make it to the top again one day!

Mt. Fuji viewpoint at Izu Panorama Park

Where to stay in Shizuoka

The seaside town of Atami, located on the northeastern base of the Izu Peninsula is less than an hour’s ride on the Shinkansen from Tokyo (book your ticket here ). At the end of the 19th century, the imperial family built a home here, leading other influential families to build their second homes in Atami as well.

Today, it’s well known for its onsens and although only 4,000 people call Atami home, more than it welcomes 6 million visitors annually.

When I visited Atami, I stayed at the Hotel New Akao Royal Wing , a beautiful and modern hotel with ocean views. Despite an impending typhoon during my stay, the moody skies and big waves of Sagami Bay captivated me each morning when I opened the shades. The rooms are equipped with a large soaking bath and yukatas to wear in your room or to explore the hotel.

Hotel New Akao Royal Wing offers a breakfast buffet with western favorites as well as local Japanese specialties. Dinner is also available with French or Japanese delicacies, using fresh seafood and local products.

After a long day spent exploring Atami, relax in the public or private onsens, some with ocean views while you soak.

Book your stay at the Hotel New Akao Royal Wing here .

Shizuoka City

Just steps away from the Shizuoka train station, Hotel Associa Shizuoka beckons business and leisure travelers with its convenient location and modern luxury.

I enjoyed soaking in the deep tub in my room after a day spent walking around Shizuoka City. And despite the hot, humid days, this hotel’s air conditioning was the best I experienced in the whole country!

Breakfast included an omelette station and pancakes with a green tea cream sauce!

Want to stay at Hotel Associa Shizuoka? Book your stay here .

Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate of Japan, chose Sunpu (now called Shizuoka) as his place of retirement. And I can see why – the bountiful harvests, fresh seafood and stunning scenery forms a land that’s befitting of a powerful ruler. Luckily, we don’t have to be a famous or powerful ruler to enjoy a visit to the Izu Peninsula today!

In short, Shizuoka deserves so much more than just a day trip from Tokyo. I stayed for four days and three nights and I know there’s still so much more that this prefecture has to offer. Whether you’re visiting Japan for the first time or the fifth, I hope you’ll add this region to your itinerary!

Note: Shizuoka Prefecture hosted me on my trip to the Izu Peninsula. All opinions are my own and I’ll never recommend anything to you that’s not awesome!

Don’t forget all of these awesome things to do in Shizuoka! Pin this post!

40+ epic things to do in Shizuoka Japan

Alex Howell

Wednesday 11th of September 2019

When I see this kind of post, I get excited, Japan is incredible, I don't wait to see those dogs walking around!

Roslia Santamaria

Thursday 5th of September 2019

Thank you so much for sharing the valuable post.

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Destinations

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Shizuoka Starts Here

Most people who seek a Shizuoka travel guide are actually on their way to Mt. Fuji —and that’s fair. Japan’s most famous mountain looms large over Shizuoka, figuratively but especially literally.

On the other hand, Shizuoka is so much more than Fujisan , even if views of it in the distance reliably alert you to its presence. The prefecture is home to some of mainland Japan’s most beautiful beaches, as well as unique food and drink and cities you probably didn’t know exist.

Even if you can’t devote as much time to Shizuoka on your next Japan trip as you’d like, I hope you’ll take some time to read up on what this underrated prefecture has to offer. It’s so much more than Mt. Fuji!

Where to Base Yourself in Shizuoka

Depending on how long you stay in the prefecture, you may need to book several Shizuoka hotels (or other accommodation). That’s because due to the sprawling size of Shizuoka, there isn’t necessarily one “best” place to base yourself, I mean assuming you want to see everywhere on your trip. Most people focus on a single area.

Obviously, the best (and best-value) hotels are located bigger cities, such as Hamamatsu (where the utilitarian Daiwa Roynet gets the job done) and Hotel Associa in Shizuoka city itself. You can also find places to stay in smaller cities like Atami and in Shimoda, the historical city that makes for the best base for travelers who want to explore the Izu peninsula.

What to Do in Shizuoka

Admire (or climb) mt. fuji.

Climbing Mt. Fuji is a weird experience—it’s not as difficult as you might think it is, and to me doesn’t feel as important as it should, as a result. Also, you can’t see Mt. Fuji when you’re on top of it—obviously—and to me, seeing Mt. Fuji from different vantage points is at least as important as summiting it. 

Visit Japan’s most scenic tea fields

Indeed, seeing Mt. Fuji rising above the Obuchi Sasaba tea fields is one of my favorite things to do in Shizuoka, and is certainly among the most beautiful. If you have a rental car (and you almost certainly will, another awesome place to see Mt. Fuji is the flower fields near Higashi Taga-no-ura station. From here, you can see Shinkansen bullet trains speeding in front of Mt. Fuji!

Taste wasabi at its source

Wasabi is one of my favorite Japanese flavors, although I rarely eat it outside of Japan. Or, if I can, outside of Shizuoka. Here, whether at stands near the wasabi fields of Ikadaba or at various other spots along the road, you can taste fresh, real wasabi—no powder, and no paste. You can even have it with fresh milk ice cream, which is…and experience.

Discover Shimoda’s amazing beaches

The Izu Peninsula is, on the whole, one of my favorite places to visit in Shizuoka for a whole host of reasons. Most of these center on Shimoda , the city at the “point” of the peninsula. In addition to being very historically important (more on why in a few paragraphs), Shimoda’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in Japan outside of Okinawa.

Explore unsung cities

I’ll be frank: Shizuoka doesn’t have many cities that are generally considered to be stand-outs. With this being said, whether you’re in Atami amid its decaying hot springs resorts, or seeing the world’s largest Buddhist heart sutra in Hamamatsu , Shizuoka does have some urban acumen. Even Shizuoka city itself, from Nihondaira Observatory to the beaches of Shimizu , is nothing to sneeze at.

Is Shizuoka Worth Visiting?

Shizuoka is absolutely worth visiting, if only to catch a glimpse of (or to climb) Mt. Fuji. With this being said, the more you can explore this prefecture, the more you’ll fall in love with it. I love seeing Fujisan from many different perspectives: Through tea fields and behind Shinkansen tracks, especially. I also love discovering underrated cities like Atami and Numazu.

Then there’s the Izu peninsula, which is almost like a sub-prefecture. The highlight of this part of Japan is the beaches of Shimoda, although they’re not the only game in town. Shimoda city itself is extremely impressive, and important. It was here where the “black ships” of American Commodore Matthew Perry signaled to Japan that the time to end its Sakoku (isolation) period had come. 

Other FAQ About Visiting Shizuoka

What is shizuoka, japan known for.

For foreign tourists, Shizuoka is primarily known for being one of the two prefectures home to Mt. Fuji (the other is Yamanashi). Japanese travelers, meanwhile, know Shizuoka for the high-quality green tea it produces, as well as destinations like the Izu peninsula and the hot springs city of Atami.

Where in Japan is Shizuoka?

Shizuoka is located in Tokai, the region of Japan along the Pacific coast between Tokyo and Nagoya. It’s at the geographical heart of Japan, which makes it convenient to visit no matter what the rest of your trip looks like, even if you’re spending as little as two weeks in Japan .

Does it snow in Shizuoka?

Although it snows on some of the high mountains in Shizuoka (and namely on top of Fuji), snow along the coast and in cities is quite rare. Winter weather tends to be cool (not cold) with clear skies, which actually makes this a perfect time to visit Shizuoka.

The Bottom Line

I hope my Shizuoka travel guide has answered all the questions you had about travel in this underrated part of Japan. Some of you, understandably, will simply be seeking information about seeing or even scaling Mt. Fuji —and that’s fine. Others will want to explore deeper, however, whether that’s visiting quasi-forgotten coastal cities like Atami and Hamamatsu, hitting the beach in Shimoda or road tripping amid the wasabi farms and tea fields of inland Shizuoka. No matter what shape you think your next Japan visit will end up taking, I do hope you consider hiring me to plan it .

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12月 6, 2017

Top 10 Tourist Attractions & Best Things to Do in Shizuoka, Japan

Shizuoka can be considered as one of the most famous tourist spots in Japan, and many people visit this area to enjoy the tremendous view of Mt. Fuji from up close. The area is also famous for its high quality green tea, amazing Suruga Bay, and strong local soccer team. Shizuoka can be reached easily from Tokyo, and today we’ve listed up 10 different sightseeing spots that are worth to visit!

1. Ryotanji

Founded in 733, Ryotanji is one of the oldest temples in Japan. At Ryotanji, you can find many kinds of assets such as the Ryotanji Garden and a tremendous dragon carvings.

Built more than 1000 years ago, Ryotanji Temple has one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan, which was designed by Kobori Eshu. Ryotanji is also famous as a national treasure for its scenic beauty.

You can find a great dragon carvings at the hallway, which was carved by Hidari Jingoro. At the main hall, you can find the Akasagarbha Bodhisattva, a sacred Buddhist image that imparts wisdom!

2. Kunozan Toshogu Shrine

Kunozan Toshogu is a shrine dedicated to the famous leader Tokugawa Ieyasu, who passed away on April 17, 1616. Tokugawa Ieyasu is one of the most important leaders of Japan, as he brought the civil wars to an end and united Japan.

There are a lot of Toshogu Shrines dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, but the most important Toshogu Shrines are Nikko Toshogu Shrine in Tochigi, and Kunoza Toshogu Shrine in Shizuoka.

Kunozan Toshogu Shrine has a very complicated architecture details; consisting large numbers of red buildings with gold accents and colorful carvings and paintings. You should explore Romon Gate, Haiden, and Honden halls when visiting this shrine, and don’t forget to stop by Tokugawa Ieyasu’s tomb as well.

At the Museum of Kunozan Toshogu (located right beside the shrine), you can find many Tokugawa Ieyasu’s personal belongings, such as swords, armors, clothing, and hanging scrolls!

Try to visit this wonderful shrine by using the rope way!

3. Nirayama Reverberatory Furnace

Registered as the World Heritage Treasures in 2015, Nirayama Reverberatory Furnace is a well preserved iron smelting facility in Japan, located on the Izu Peninsula. It is also one of the most important sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution.

Constructed with local stones and bricks, the furnace represented the most advanced technology of that time. The furnaced produced the irons for cannons, and you can find few cannons displayed around the furnace as well!

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4. Mishima Taisha Shrine

Mishima Taisha is a Shinto shrine located in Mishima City. The shrine worships the god of mountain and the goddess of happiness and fortune. Mishima Taisha is one of the most important shrines in Japan and has a long established history.

The main hall of Mishima Taisha is registered as Important Cultural Property of Japan, and you can find many precious and wonderful architecture details on the grounds of the shrine. You can also find a 1200-year old olive tree in the area of the shrine as well. In Spring, the view of cherry blossom trees at Mishima Taisha is extremely gorgeous!

5. Shiraito Falls

Shiraito Falls is one of the most important waterfalls in Japan, which is located in the Southwestern foothills of Mount Fuji. With 20 meters of heights and 150 meters of width, Shiraito Falls look exactly like a hanging threads of silk; just like its name.

Shiraito Falls has been protected since as a Japanese Natural Monument since 1936. In 1950, Shiraito Falls was chosen as the best waterfalls in Japan, for its gorgeous waterfalls view and great nature.

Shiraito Falls is also one of the most famous power spots in Japan, as many people believe that the waterfalls have a lot of minus ion that will remove all bad lucks and evil power. In addition to the waterfalls, you can also find many souvenir shops and local food stores in the area as well!

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6. Oigawa Railway – Thomas Trains

Not only kids, but adults also love the cute train Thomas & Friends, and in Shizuoka, you can actually get on the Thomas trains as well. These Thomas trains run in between Shin-kanaya Station and Senzu Station of Oigawa Railway from June 17, 2017 to October 9, 2017.

You cannot get on these trains without making a reservation in advance, and most of the time you will see your name on the waiting list as these trains are very famous among both, the locals and the foreigners as well.

You can also make a reservation for the photo sessions as well; you’d be able to take pictures with Thomas & Friends miniatures, which is also very difficult as well.

7. Niji No Sato at Shuzenji

Shuzenji is famous as one of the most prestigious hot springs (onsen) area in Japan, and the city accommodates many great spas and sightseeing spots as well. Established in April 1990, Niji No Sato is a leisure park located inside the Shuzenji Nature Park.

The 50-hectare park is divided into Western and Japanese themed areas: English Village, Canadian Village, Western Flower Garden, Izu Village, Takumi Village, and Japanese Garden.

The park has many great architectural works and beautiful flowers that bloom seasonally as well, so don’t forget to stop by this park when visiting Shizuoka!

8. Kakegawa Castle

Kakegawa Castle is one of the most famous castles in Japan, which was rebuilt in 1994 after the keep was destroyed by the big earthquake in 1854. Ever since then, Kakegawa Castle became the first castle with wooden keep.

Kakegawa Castle was registered as an Important Cultural Property of Japan in 1980, and in 2006, Kakegawa Castle was ranked 42nd among 100 castles of Japan by the Japan Castle Foundation for its historical significance.

You can enjoy the gorgeous view of the Japanese Garden, and by paying an extra fee, you can enjoy drinking Japanese green tea and eating Japanese sweets at the tea house as well.

9. Numazu Deep Sea Aquarium

Numazu Deep Sea Aquarium is the only aquarium in the world that has coelacanth, living fossils that are protected by the Washington Convention. You can see many deep-sea creatures found at Suruga Bay at this aquarium, and you can also see five mounted coelacanths, which two of them are cryogenically preserved.

The coelacanths were found in Comoros, South Africa, and Sulawesi, Indonesia. You can see the documentary filming one of these coelacanths swimming in the ocean in South Africa, and you can also see many other documentaries related to deep-sea creatures.

Some of the deep-sea creatures are ugly and scary, but some of them are pretty cute as well. Don’t forget to stop by the shop to buy the souvenirs and the restaurant to try its superb food!

10. Arai Barrier

Arai Barrier is one of the most famous attractions in Shizuoka, and it is the only surviving Tokugawa Shogunate’s security checkpoint. The security checkpoint is located on the Tokaido highway that connects the capital of Edo with Kyoto in Edo period Japan. The official name of Arai barrier was Imagiri Barrier.

Built in 1600, all travelers were required to submit their travel permits for examinations and to pay taxes when traveling with commercial merchandise. All female travelers and weapons passing this checkpoint were examined very strictly as well, as a small number of weapons had the potential to change the balance of power in that period.

You can explore this site upon reservation; the main office, the guest room, the library, the clerk’s room and the shita-aratame room are fun to explore, so don’t forget to stop by Arai Barrier when visiting Shizuoka!

Let’s Enjoy the Tourist Attractions in Shizuoka!

Shizuoka is not just famous for its great view of Mt. Fuji, but it is also famous for its huge collections of sightseeing spots! Enjoy exploring Shizuoka and don’t forget to visit one of these spots during your visits!

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With over 700,000 residents, Shizuoka (��) is a medium sized city situated halfway between Tokyo and Nagoya . It is the capital of Shizuoka Prefecture . The main city center is located around Shizuoka Station, while Shimizu and its port make up a secondary center, which was only recently merged into the city. Like the prefecture, the city is known for its tea leaves and scenic views of Mount Fuji .

The city has a long history dating back to the Nara Period (710-784), when it was the capital of the Suruga Province. The prosperity of the town greatly improved in the early 1600s when Tokugawa Ieyasu , the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate , made the local Sumpu Castle his retirement home. One of the most famous shrines dedicated to Ieyasu is located on nearby Mount Kunozan .

Top attractions in Shizuoka

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The Home of Mt. Fuji: 7 Scenic Places to Visit in Shizuoka Prefecture

Shizuoka Prefecture is where you’ll find Japan’s pride and joy: Mt. Fuji. While climbing Mt. Fuji is strenuous, most visitors will be more than satisfied gazing upon its majestic figure from afar. Thankfully, there are many Shizuoka tourist spots boasting incredible Mt. Fuji views, complemented by reflective lakes, coastal pine forests, and waterfalls. Plus, Shizuoka is home to a bounty of hot springs, attractions, and plenty more, providing you with a comprehensive Japan itinerary. In this article, we’ll introduce 7 places to visit in Shizuoka that we’re sure you’ll adore!

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1. Tanuki Lake [Kyukamura Fuji Bus Stop]

At Asagiri Kogen, which is located in the northern part of Shizuoka Prefecture, you can clearly see the west side of Mt. Fuji. Tanuki Lake is particularly known for being a spectacular scenic spot. Here, you can see Mt. Fuji, as well as the image of Mt. Fuji reflected in the surface of the lake, known as “Upside Down Fuji”. You can enjoy the view of the changing seasons in the surrounding areas, including cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn leaves in fall. 

When the sun goes down in the evening, you can witness the phenomenon where Mt. Fuji appears to be dyed in red. When there’s snow on Mt. Fuji and it turns red, it is called, "Beni Fuji" (Crimson Fuji). When there’s no snow, it is called "Aka Fuji" (Red Fuji).

2. Shuzenji Onsen [Shuzenji]

Shuzenji is an area overflowing with traditional Japanese atmosphere with a historical hot spring district known as "Izu’s Little Kyoto ". Shuzenji Temple, which was established by the monk Kukai during the 8th to the 9th century, is also located here. 

As one would expect from what is considered to be the oldest hot spring on the Izu Peninsula, there are many hot spring hotels that have been in business since olden times. One of these hot spring inns, "Kikuya Ryokan", was affiliated with the Japanese novelist Natsume Soseki, and has a history of over 360 years. It's an inn that's highly recommended to anyone who is interested in old Japanese architecture. 

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3. Miho no Matsubara [Mihono Matsubara Iriguchi Bus Stop]

"Miho no Matsubara" is a 7km long white sand beach with a pine forest running along its length. Beyond the ocean, the magnificent shape of Mt. Fuji is visible. If the weather, time, and season all allow it, you can see the beautiful ocean and Mt. Fuji all at once. 

Located roughly in the middle of the Miho Peninsula is Miho Shrine. In front of the shrine is a road of pine trees called "Kami no Michi" (the path of the gods) that stretches all the way to the pine forest on the beach. At Miho no Matsubara, you can enjoy the interesting contrast of the many pine trees, the white sand, and the blue ocean.  

4. Numazuko Deepblue Aquarium [Numazuko Bus Stop]

Suruga Bay in Shizuoka Prefecture is known as Japan’s deepest bay. The deepest area is 2,500 meters deep and there are a lot of deep sea creatures that inhabit this area. In Numazu, a city that looks out over the bay, there is the Numazuko Deepblue Aquarium - Japan’s first deep sea themed aquarium. They even have frozen specimens of Coelacanth, the living fossil, on display!

You'll be able to see deep sea creatures gathered from the Suruga Bay and from countries all over the world. There are a lot of creatures here who have slightly frightening appearances typical of many deep sea critters, like the Giant Isopod wrapped in its hard-looking shell, the nautilus, and the Splitfin flashlight fish, which has a bioluminescent organ under its eye that lights up in the dark. Explore and enjoy this unusually extraordinary world!

5. Shiraito Falls & Otodome Falls [Shiraito no Taki Waterfall Bus Stop]

Shiraito Falls is one of the country’s designated natural monuments. The waterfall is famed for its beautiful view that closely resembles drooping white threads. Right next to it is the Otodome Falls, which gives off a thunderous noise from its 25 meter drop! On days where the weather is good, you can see Mt. Fuji from the other side of the falls, making it a truly wonderful scenic spot. 

There is a promenade not far from the waterfall basin, so it’s a place where even small children can have fun. Also, every year around the end of November, the autumn leaves turn red, completely changing the atmosphere.

6. Oku-oi Kojo Station [Oku-oi Kojo]

Oku-oi Kojo Station is an unstaffed train station that is situated on the tip of a peninsula on the left bank of a dam lake. When you look at it from far away, the station, located exactly in the middle of a long bridge, looks like a train station in the sky. The name of the red iron bridge that spans both sides of the station is the Oku-oi Rainbow Bridge. The beautiful emerald green dam lake on the other side of the bridge is one of Shizuoka’s must-see scenic spots. 

When the weather is foggy, you can enjoy the strange sensation of feeling like you're floating above the clouds. Both the view from the train platform and the view from inside the train are quite splendid. 

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7. Kunozan Toshogu Shrine [Kunoyama Shita Bus Stop]

Kunozan Toshogu Shrine is the shrine where Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first-generation commander-in-chief of the Edo Shogunate (1603 - 1867), is enshrined. There is also the Kunozan Toshogu Museum, where the armor, sword, and various equipment that Ieyasu used in the historically famous battle of Sekigahara, are preserved. 

This shrine is characteristic for its stone stairs. There are 1,159 steps and the view from the top is wonderful! If you use the ropeway from Nihondaira, you don’t have to struggle with the long flight of stairs. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the view!

That wraps up this carefully selected list of some of Shizuoka's most recommended sightseeing spots! When you think of Shizuoka, the first thing that comes to mind is definitely Mt. Fuji. Seeing that grand view in person will undoubtedly move you beyond words. Depending on the season, the scenery and the impression you're left with will also change, so have fun discovering which season you like best!

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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10 amazing things to do in Shizuoka, Japan!

Apr 15, 2021

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• 10 Amazing Things

Located in central Honshu, Shizuoka Prefecture is best known for sharing Japan’s largest mountain, Mt. Fuji, with its neighboring prefecture, Yamanashi. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean, Shizuoka is a great destination for a weekend getaway from Tokyo or Osaka, as this prefecture isn’t far from both cities.

Shizuoka is a home to many scenic spots like Izu Peninsula, Shuzenji, and also Mishima Skywalk. This prefecture is also known for its amazing local delicacies like its juicy Beni Hoppe strawberries, mouthwatering unagi, and premium green tea.

Brimming with beautiful nature and interesting tourist destinations, how about visiting Shizuoka to have both, an extraordinary, yet a novel adventure?

How to get there

Recommended sightseeing spots in shizuoka :, izu peninsula, shiraito falls, mishima skywalk, kunozan toshogu shrine, oigawa railway, miho no matsubara, hamamatsu castle.

• Lake Hamana

Shizuoka’ s best local treats:

• Abekawa Mochi

Shizuoka Prefecture is accessible by several different transportation methods, including trains and highway buses. The two major cities in Shizuoka are Shizuoka and Hamamatsu, and the main transportation hub in Shizuoka is Shizuoka Station.

The most convenient way to get to Shizuoka from Tokyo is by taking the JR Tokaido Shinkansen using the Hikari or Kodama trains. The one-way trip costs around 6,000 yen for non-reserved seats, and around 7,000 yen for reserved seats, and it’s fully covered by the JR Pass.

You can also travel from Tokyo to Shizuoka using the highway bus, which takes around 3 hours and costs around 3,000 yen one-way.

Recommended sightseeing spots in Shizuoka

Shizuoka has become one of the most popular destinations of Japan, and many tourists from all over the world visit the prefecture to see the great Mt. Fuji. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean, Shizuoka is home to Izu Peninsula, which is famous for its beautiful seascape, and Shuzenji, which is best known for its beautiful, yet mystical bamboo forest.

Shizuoka is just one prefecture over from Tokyo, making it a perfect destination for a day trip, or as a weekend getaway from Tokyo. This prefecture is also close from Osaka, so you can visit it as a pit stop when traveling to Osaka from Tokyo. In addition to its wonderful sightseeing spots, Shizuoka is also known as a home to many delicious local treats like unagi and strawberries.

Ready to take yourself to Shizuoka? Here are our picks for the best things to do in Shizuoka, Japan!

1. Admire the beautiful seascape of Izu Peninsula!

Izu Peninsula is a resort area in Shizuoka that is best known for its amazing hot springs, scenic coastlines, and beautiful beaches. Many Japanese choose Izu Peninsula as a weekend getaway spot as it’s not so far from Tokyo, and some of the most popular cities in Izu are Atami, Ito, and Shimoda, which all are popular for their amazing beaches and hot springs.

• Website (Japanese)

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2. Find your “Zen” at Shuzenji!

Shuzenji is an old hot spring city in the center of the Izu Peninsula. This area is named after Shuzenji, a historical Zen temple near by the Katsura River, which offers a Zen meditation exercise to the public on Tuesdays. When visiting the temple, you can visit the main hall and the treasure house of the temple.

In addition to the Zen temple, there is a small bamboo forest along the Katsura River, where the tomb of Minamoto no Yoriie, the second shogun of Kamakura Shogunate is located. The bamboo forest of Shuzenji has that mystical and mysterious atmospheres, and it looks extremely beautiful at night during the light-up.

3. Stroll around Jogasaki Coast!

Jogasaki Coast is one of the most scenic spots in Izu where you can enjoy the scenic views of the ocean, mountain, and forest without having to go too far from the city.

Loved by hikers and trekkers, Jogasaki Coast is about 10 kilometers south of central Ito, and it has an attractive hiking trails with beautiful views of the cliffs and the rock formations of the coast.

When you visit Jogasaki Coast, make sure to stop by the Kadowaki Lighthouse and the Kadowaki Suspension Bridge, the two iconic spots of Jogasaki Coast that are loved by everyone!

4. Find your peace at Shiraito Falls!

Shiraito Falls is in the southwestern of Mt. Fuji, and it is ranked as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Japan. This waterfall is a 20 meters in height and 150 meters in width, and it has thin white streams that resemble hanging threads of silk, just like its name. You can get closer to the waterfall by walking through the path near the waterfall while enjoying the sound of the waterfall.

5. Enjoy the view of Mt. Fuji from Mishima Skywalk!

Mishima Skywalk must be included in your must-visit list if you’re a fan of picturesque scenery, as it offers great panorama views of Mt. Fuji, Suruga Bay, and mountains of Izu, which all can be seen together from the skywalk. The great suspension bridge of Mishima Skywalk stretches over a valley on west Hakone, and it has a total length of 400m and a height of 70m.

In addition to the beautiful panorama, there are shopping centers, cafes, and restaurants by the bridge, so you can buy souvenirs and eat some local treats there.

• Business hours : 9:00 – 17:00
• Open throughout the year
• Admissions : 1,100 yen (adults), 500 yen (junior high school students), 200 yen (elementary school students)
• English Pamphlet

6. Send your prayers at Kunozan Toshogu Shrine!

Kunozan Toshogu Shrine is one of the most important shrines in Japan, and it is a shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu (1543-1616), a famous leader who ended the civil wars and united Japan. There are a lot of shrines dedicated to Ieyasu in Japan, but Kunozan Toshogu, which is in Shizuoka, is second to Nikko’s Toshogu in importance.

Kunozan Toshogu is at Mt. Kunozan, where Tokugawa Ieyasu’s mausoleum is located. You can enjoy the view of Suruga Bay and the Izu Peninsula from there, and there is a museum called Kunozan Toshogu Museum near the shrine, where you can see the Tokugawa family’s treasures, including armor and helmets.

• Business hours : 8:30 – 17:00 (April to September), 8:30 – 16:00 (October to March)
• Admissions : 500 yen (age 15 & above), 200 yen (children)

7. Explore Shizuoka using the Oigawa Railway!

How about exploring Shizuoka with traditional steam locomotives?

Oigawa Railway is one of the most famous traditional steam locomotives in Japan that runs regularly for more than 300 days a year. The trains run between Shin-Kanaya Station and Senzu Station from one to three times a day, and all seats are available upon reservation only.

One of the best things you can enjoy from taking the Oigawa Railway is the stunning view of Oi River and its surrounding nature, including the gorgeous Sumata Gorge.

• Visit the website to check the fare and train schedule >> Website

8. See Mt. Fuji from Miho no Matsubara, the “black beach”!

Miho no Matsubara is known as one of the best spots in Shizuoka to see Mt. Fuji, and the beach has been featured in many traditional Japanese ukiyo-e paintings. The beach, which sometime is called as “The Black Beach”, is best known for its black sand and pine trees. The beach was also registered as a part of Mt. Fuji’S World Heritage Site in June 2013.

9. Visit the great Hamamatsu Castle!

Hamamatsu Castle stands at the center of the city of Hamamatsu in Shizuoka, and the castle was the home of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate who ended civil wars and united Japan. The castle was originally built in 1532, but it was later destroyed by an air raid during World War II.

The castle was rebuilt in 1958, the castle has become a popular spot for cherry blossoms viewing for the last decades. There is a Japanese garden, a teahouse, and a large green area where live events are hosted sometimes.

• Business hours : 8:30 – 16:30
• Closed from December 29-31
• Admissions : 200 yen (adults), free for age 14 and under

10. Cruise along the beautiful Lake Hamanako!

Lake Hamanako is a large lake in west Shizuoka, near the Pacific Coast. It was originally a freshwater lake, but it got connected to the ocean after an earthquake hit Japan in 1498, and ever since then Lake Hamanako’s water turned salty. The lake is mainly known for its hot spring resort called Kanzanji Onsen, and you can enjoy the surrounding scenery by cruising along the lake with a boat.

Lake Hamanako

Shizuoka’s best local treats.

Shizuoka Prefecture is in southwest of Tokyo, and it is best known for its amazing nature – enormous mountains, crystal-clear rivers and lakes, amazing hot springs, fertile land, and beautiful ocean. This prefecture also produces some of the most popular regional cuisines of Japan, including the nation-wide famous Beni Hoppe Strawberries and the Savory Unagi from Hamamatsu.

Ready to fill your tummy with Shizuoka’s local treats? Here are our picks for the best foods to eat when visiting the prefecture!

1. Strawberry

Shizuoka is one of the largest strawberry producers in Japan, and the prefecture is best known for its delicious Beni Hoppe strawberries. Comes in a vivid red color, Beni Hoppe strawberry is known for its perfect balance of sweetness and sourness. There are a lot of strawberry farms in Shizuoka offering strawberry picking experiences, and these strawberries are usually in season from December to May.

Hamamatsu is a city in Shizuoka Prefecture, and it is best known for its savory unagi (freshwater eel), which are taken directly from the crystal-clear Lake Hamanako. Lake Hamanako has been the No.1 producer of unagi in Japan for more than 100 years, and Hamamatsu City is home to the best unagi restaurants in Japan.

3. Green tea

Shizuoka is also famous for its amazing quality of green tea, which was introduced to the prefecture for the first time in 1200s by a monk called Shoichi Kokushi. The monk brought back tea seeds from China, and ever since then, Shizuoka became one of the largest green tea producers in Japan. There are many tea tours across the prefecture you can participate.

4. Abekawa Mochi

Abekawa mochi is a traditional Japanese sweet featuring mochi rice cakes dusted in kinako powder (roasted soybean flour). Abekawa was a traditional mining region for gold, and people back then believed that Abekawa mochi was dusted with the gold powder taken from the mines there.

5. Sakura Ebi

Some of the most famous harbors in Shizuoka are Yui Harbor and Oigawa Harbor, and those harbors, which both overlook the Suruga Bay, are best known for producing Sakura Ebi. Sakura Ebi are tiny, dried shrimp which color is like the color of cherry blossoms. Made with a traditional sun-dried process, Sakura Ebi has light and crispy textures.

Now that you have an idea of how many fabulous spots are in Shizuoka, all you must do is plan your itinerary to enjoy unforgettable experiences in Shizuoka!

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Two-Day Itinerary in Shizuoka: Memorable Weekend Getaway from Tokyo!

Shizuoka is a prefecture located in the central part of the Japanese Chubu region . It is home to a wide range of tourist attractions, beautiful natural spots, refreshing hot spring resorts and so much more to explore.  One of Japan’s most beloved destinations, the world-famous Mt. Fuji is even in Shizuoka. Since it is conveniently accessible from Tokyo by Shinkansen , it is often chosen as an ideal weekend escape from hustle and bustle of the busy city. Here is the ultimate 2-day itinerary to a satisfying weekend trip to Shizuoka!       

1. How to get to Shizuoka from Tokyo?

Try local specialties, where to stay on day one, accommodation options, plan 1: mt. fuji & gotemba premium outlets, plan 2: atami hot spring resort, plan 3: shuzenji & shimoda area, other articles you might be interested in.

From Tokyo station , the easiest and fastest way to take the Tokaido Shinkansen to directly to some of the major cities in Shizuoka prefecture. Due to its size, how long it will take from Tokyo will depend on where you are planning to go. If you want to travel to the eastern part of the Prefecture such as Izu or Atami however, the train ride is less than a one-hour journey.

Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shizuoka

1. East Shizuoka (Tokyo to Atami station)

Fare: ¥3,740 (Non-Reserved seat)

Time: 35-45 min 

2. Central  Shizuoka (Tokyo to Shizuoka station)

Fare: ¥6,670 (Non-Reserved seat)

Time: 1-1.5 hours

3. West Shizuoka  (Tokyo to Hamamatsu station)

Fare: ¥8,640 (Non-Reserved seat)

Time: 1.5 – 2 hours

Day 1: Explore Western Shizuoka

If you are interested in Japanese history and castles, western Shizuoka is the perfect destination for you! It boasts two beautiful castles, Hamamatsu castle and Kakegawa castle , both of which attract visitors from all over the world. 

Hamamatsu castle has a long history dating back to the 16 th century. It was later used as an official residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, one of the most powerful and successful warriors in Japanese history who was widely renowned for his achievement in establishing the Tokugawa Shogunate. His Shogunate ruled the entire country for over 260 years from the beginning of the 17 th century through the late 19 th century. Hamamatsu Castle Park is a peaceful oasis perfect for a refreshing stroll while surrounded by lush greenery and seasonal flowers such as cherry blossoms in Spring!

Kakegawa Castle is another beautiful castle in Kakegawa city which is about a thirty-minute train ride from Hamamatsu station on the JR Tokaido Line. Although the large part of the original castle was demolished in 1871, visitors can still enjoy climbing up the restored wooden-castle tower which offers a panoramic view of Kakegawa city and the surrounding area!

Hamamatsu boasts alluring local specialties which bring foodies from all over. Try famous eel dishes such as Una-ju (grilled eel bowl dish with rice) which features locally sourced fresh eel from Lake Hamana . Gyoza (餃子) is another must-try and is often served with ramen noodles at Chinese-style restaurants or casual diners! 

If you want to try these specialties but have no idea where to go, visit MAY ONE which is a shopping and dining complex conveniently connected to JR Hamamatsu station!   

Thanks to its compact size, west Shizuoka is easy to get around in half a day or so. If you want to make the most of your limited time in Shizuoka, it is recommended to book your accommodation in the central or eastern Shizuoka area. This will allow you to leave extra time on the following day to explore the highlights in central and eastern Shizuoka easily!      

Traditional Japanese Ryokan (Izu & Shuzenji area)

• Onsen Yado Mizuguchi
• Tatsuta Ryokan
• Marukyu Ryokan

Hotels (near JR Shizuoka station)

• Hotel Associa Shizuoka
• Smile Hotel Shizuoka

Day 2: Explore Central and Eastern Shizuoka

From world-famous natural attractions, pleasant beautiful beaches to relaxing hot spring resorts, central and eastern Shizuka offers something for everyone. Here are our recommendations that you can choose from according to your budget and interest!

Don’t miss Shizuoka’s most popular tourist attraction, Mt. Fuji which has fascinated people for over centuries as an iconic landmark and spiritual mecca. It boasts great hiking trails and routes for hikers of all levels. (hiking routes are open from early July through the beginning of September) Make sure to check the current climbing status on their official website to enjoy a memorable hike safely.

 If you want to enjoy the spectacular view from a distance, visit Arakurayama Sengen Park which offers a breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji along with a five-story red pagoda! Located at the base of Mt. Fuji is Gotemba Premium Outlets which is a shopping heaven with world-famous brands and tax-free shops! 

Atami is a beautiful seaside city which is widely recognized as one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts. It boasts a great number of luxury traditional Japanese Ryokan which will be a memorable experience for sure. In  the Summer, visit Atami Sun Beach , a scenic sandy beach nestled in the heart of the city. It is about a 20min walk to Kinomiya Shrine , a sacred Shinto shrine which boasts a giant 2,000-year-old camber tree and a quaint atmosphere with a long history of approximately 1,3000 years. MOA Museum is an impressive art museum which not only showcases an exclusive collection of approximately 3,500 works but also features a beautiful building with a stunning view over Atami and the sea!           

Travelling down to the south part of Izu peninsula takes you to Shuzenji and Shimoda area. Shuzenji is one of the oldest hot spring resorts in the Izu area which boasts over 1,200 years of history. One of the main reasons to visit there is for an unforgettable Ryokan stay experience. Take a pleasant stroll through a small bamboo path known as Chikurin-no Komichi which welcomes visitors with beautiful autumn colors in fall. Shuzenji Temple and Hie Shrine are also located within walking distance from Shuzenji Onsen station. 

Shimoda offers epic landscapes, beautiful sandy beaches, stunning coastlines and a range of outdoor activity options. Enjoy swimming at Shirahama Ohama Beach with your family and friends, or head to Tatadohama beach which is the perfect spot for surfing and water sports. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the lovely Perry Road whil allows you to unwind and veer off the path away from the crowds. Try fresh seafood dishes or get on an exciting sightseeing cruise at Shimoda Port! 

Shizuoka boasts fun things to do, a warm climate, beautiful nature and a world full of adventure just waiting for you. If you are thinking about spending a weekend away from Tokyo, but still withing arms-reach, then Shizuoka is just for you!

Don’t forget to check out our exciting tours!

Planning a trip to a foreign country alone is never easy! If you need some help to organize your trip to Japan and want to see Japan like a local, you should definitely check out our tours complete with an English guide! We’re glad to help you make your trip to Japan a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable memory!

1. Tokyo Private Tour [Customized, 7 Hours]

Visit the must-visit highlights in Tokyo with our friendly guide! This tour is flexible and destinations are completely customizable according to your requests.

2. Tokyo Fish Market Tour @Tsukiji – Enjoy Local Food and Drinks

Explore the world-famous fish market in Tsukiji with us and enjoy a wide variety of local food options and drinks!

Follow us on  Instagram ,  Facebook  and  Twitter  for more travel inspiration. Or tag us to get featured!

Happy traveling!

Miho Shimizu is a Japanese freelance writer settled in Shizuoka with her husband and two rabbits. Fascinated with traveling at the age of 18, she has spent most of her long holidays exploring incredible spots around Japan. Also love to listen to music, draw, and read novels over a cup of green tea.

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Shizuoka - 10 Must Visit Spots In This Nature Rich Tokyo Neighbor!

Shizuoka Prefecture is one prefecture over from Tokyo, bordering Kanagawa Prefecture, and is most famously known as the location of Mt. Fuji, arguably the most well recognized mountain in the world, and the symbol of Japan. There's plenty to do here!

Top 10 Attractions and Activities in Shizuoka Prefecture

To many, Shizuoka prefecture is best known as home to Mt. Fuji , the national symbol of Japan and a World Heritage site, an honor it shares with neighboring Yamanashi prefecture .

Picture from Farm Stay In Shizuoka - Enjoy Local Hospitality And Beautiful Sights

Shizuoka is also famous for its green tea production. There are hundreds of tea fields throughout the prefecture and many spots where you can enjoy freshly brewed green tea all year round.

However, there is so much more to see and do in Shizuoka! Here are ten must-visit places in the nature-rich, exciting prefecture of Shizuoka - many of which can easily be visited on a day trip from Tokyo!

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Book the JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)

1. Mt. Fuji Viewing

Picture from Top 24 Best Views Of Mount Fuji - From Tokyo And Its Surroundings

Let's get the simplest option out of the way first. As home to Mt. Fuji , there are numerous different places where you can enjoy incredible views of the internationally loved mountain in Shizuoka.

Playground in Shizuoka City

Shizuoka City itself is a great place to see Mt. Fuji from. For an unforgettable scenery, we recommend a trip to Miho no Matsubara (Miho Beach), a place that offers wonderful views of the seacoast with Mt. Fuji in the background.

2. Flower Tours Near Lake Hamanako

Picture from Shizuoka Prefecture: A Flower Tour Around The Lake Hamanako Area

Located in western Shizuoka Prefecture, Lake Hamanako is renowned in Japan for its incredible seasonal flowers. One particularly popular spot is Hamamatsu Flower Park , where cherry blossoms, azaleas, roses, wisteria, rhododendron, irises, and hydrangea flowers bloom from spring through fall each year.

One bonus about this park is that it can easily be accessed from JR Hamamatsu Station, which is located one and a half hours from both Tokyo and Kyoto via Shinkansen . Utilize the Japan Rail Pass to travel efficiently.

3. For Cherry Blossom And Starry Sky Lovers - Kawazu And Minamiizu Yumigahama

Picture from Cherry Blossoms And The Starry Sky! A February Trip To Shizuoka

If you want to experience something very Japanese during your travels, then you may want to schedule a trip to Kawazu in Shizuoka during the month of February. There, you can take in the sight of thousands of pink cherry blossoms blooming alongside the river.

Or, if you head to Minamiizu Yumigahama , you can see the Winter Diamond constellation, while stargazing up into a crystal clear night sky. Please keep in mind though, that the temperature in spring and autumn can get quite low, so you'll need to dress appropriately for both day and night.

4. Kakegawa Castle - An Authentic Reproduction from 1664

Picture from Kakegawa Castle, Shizuoka: An Authentic Castle Experience Awaits You

While there are plenty of replicas of Japanese castles to see around the country, Kakegawa Castle is not consider a replica, but a reproduction.

The entirety of the castle has been rebuilt based on existing historical documents. There are no wide staircases or elevators inside, but authentic wooden ladder-like stairs, holes in the walls where archers would shoot approaching enemies, and other items that only those well versed in history would recognize. This castle is a must for anyone interested in Japanese history, architecture, or samurai lore.

5. Clematis Hill (Clematis no Oka)

Picture from A Hidden Art Spot in Shizuoka! Come Take A Look!

Located near JR Mishima Station, Clematis no Oka is an art enclave that is home to some very unusual galleries. Here you'll find the Izu Photo Museum, the Yasushi Inoue Literary Museum, the Bernard Buffet Museum, and the Vangi Sculpture Garden Art Gallery, as well as restaurants and shops catering to the arts.

The sculpture garden here is particularly fascinating. The Vangi Sculpture Garden Art Gallery is the world's only individual art gallery, opened by modern concrete sculptor Giuliano Vangi. This unique gallery displays works ranging from those made in the 1960s to newly made sculptures in both indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces.

6. Suruga Bay - Savor Sakura Shrimp Fresh From the Harbor

Picture from Sakura Shrimp Straight From Yui Harbor, Shizuoka - Best In The World!

Sakura shrimp are a small species of shrimp that can almost only be found in Suruga Bay , in Shizuoka Prefecture. As such, this area is where all other sakura shrimp found in Japan are distributed from - which means that if you want to enjoy the absolute freshest sakura shrimp cuisine, you should visit here!

Sakura shrimp are used in tempura , soba and udon dishes, salads, and in many other traditional Japanese dishes, including some that you'll only find in Shizuoka.

7. The Izu Teddy Bear Museum - A Museum For All Ages

Picture from Visit The Dreamlike World Of Izu Teddy Bear Museum, In Shizuoka

When you first visit the Izu Teddy Bear Museum, you may find yourself feeling as though you've traveled out of Japan and into Europe, thanks to the red-brick architecture of the buildings here, but this is a decidedly Japanese concept.

The Izu Teddy Bear Museum is home to some of the world's oldest and most unique teddy bears and is conveniently located in Izukogen , one of Shizuoka's most popular resort areas.

8. Jogasaki Coast - A Stunning Coastline

Picture from Jogasaki Coast In Izu - Amazing Views Along The Pacific Coast

Hiking and trekking fans are sure to love this area. The Jogasaki Coast in the Izu Peninsula is one of those rare places where you can enjoy the stunning ocean, mountain and forest views without having to worry about being too far from civilization.

9. Atami - Luxuriate in One of Japan's Best Known Resorts

Picture from Atami Travel Guide: Rejuvenate In One Of Japan's Favorite Resort Areas

Atami is a hot spring town on the ocean in Shizuoka, and thanks to its onsen, it has become one of the best known and most popular resorts to visit in Japan. While this might make it sound crowded, Atami is also very laidback, and a restful place to visit. It is located just half an hour from Tokyo Station via Shinkansen––we highly recommend utilizing the Japan Rail Pass for your trip.

10. Oigawa Valley - A Fun Ride on a Steam Locomotive Train

Picture from Meet Thomas and Friends at the Oigawa Railway Thomas Fair!

Oigawa River Valley offers some of the most beautiful views in Shizuoka. How about enjoying them from the window of a 1930's era steam locomotive train? The SL running from Shin-Kanaya Station up the river to Senzu Station is one of the main attractions of the area. Once in Senzu, you can sample some of the best tea in Shizuoka, along with tasty local treats.

Picture from Meet Thomas and Friends at the Ōigawa Railway Thomas Fair!

Senzu Station is also home to the museum dedicated to Thomas and Friends, a train-themed facility that is loved by children and adults. Visitors can actually ride the Thomas and Friends trains or take fun pictures of them.

Enjoy Your Time in Shizuoka!

If you are looking for the perfect day trip location outside Tokyo, then any of these ten spots in Shizuoka is sure to meet the mark. The mountainous areas of Shizuoka, including the Oigawa River Valley, are cooler than other areas of Japan, making Shizuoka a great destination for a summer trip.

Kamakura / Shonan

Shibuya / Harajuku / Omotesando

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The MATCHA editorial department. Our articles feature useful travel information for visitors to Japan, from how-to guides to recommended places to visit.

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10 Best Things to Do in Shizuoka

From Mt Fuji to Izu Onsen Resort, Best Things to Do in Shizuoka

Shizuoka prefecture is located in south of Chubu region, along the Pacific coast. Best known as the great tourist destination to see Mt.Fuji all year around and to enjoy beautiful beaches in summer time. It’s also a must-visit place for green tea lovers 🙂 Shizuoka is very accessible from Tokyo and it’s a perfect getaway for a short trip!

With this Chubu Region Bucket List, let’s also check out the surrounding tourist attractions: Best Things to Do in Chubu

The great symbol of the country, Mt.Fuji stands on the border of Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefecture. As well as climbing, there are numbers of locations where amazing views can be seen in Shizuoka prefecture.

2. Fuji Safari Park

Fuji Safari Park (富士サファリパーク) is Japan’s biggest wildlife “safari park” style zoo located in Susono city. Visitors can ride their own cars or safari buses through the safari course, watching freely roaming animals including lions, tigers, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras and many more. The park is located near Mt.Fuji and the view in the park is spectacular,too.

3. Shiraito Falls

Shiraito Fall (白糸の滝) is a beautiful waterfall located near Mt.Fuji and it is indeed fed by the spring water of Mt.Fuji. The beautiful appearance of water fall from 20m high, 200 wide cliff is described as silk threads.

Atami (熱海) is one of the most popular getaways in summer time. There are numbers of resorts located by the beach and visitors enjoy beach activities, hot springs and great seafood in tropical atmosphere. Atami is located in north-east of Izu Peninsula and can be reached approx 1 hour from Tokyo by car or train.

5. Izu Highland (Izu Kogen)

Izu Highland (伊豆高原) is the inner land area of Izu Peninsula. The area is rich in nature, near both mountains and beaches and has lots of tourist attractions such as hot spring, museums, shops and restaurants. Mt. Omuro is one of the most recommended places to visit in the area, the extinct volcano where visitors can walk around the crater with the panoramic view.

The very popular beach destination and probably the best one near Tokyo. Shimoda (下田) is located in southern Izu Peninsula and has numbers of beautiful beaches. Shirahama is the biggest and most crowded beach, with crystal clear water and pure white sand.

7. Dogashima

Dogashima (堂ヶ島) is western area of Izu Peninsula, known for its scenic coastline with stone formation, cliffs and caves formed by lava flow. Visitors can enjoy sightseeing by boat and several beaches around. There are numbers of hotels and resorts, shops and restaurants.

8. Sumatakyo Gorge

Sumatakyo Gorge (寸又峡) and it’s iconic wooden suspension bridge has become a sensational hit on social media including Instagram in past years, and it’s one of most demanded photo spots in Japan currently. The gorge has rich and beautiful nature, and its a popular spot to hike, especially during autumn.

9. Imamiya Tea Plantation

If you ever dream to see the picturesque view of Mt.Fuji and green tea fields, this is the place. Fuji City in Shizuoka is one of the best green tea producers in Japan and it’s a great area to taste green tea products. The tea plantation in Imamiya area is best known for its splendid view with Mt.Fuji behind.

10. Lake Hamanako

Lake Hamanako (浜名湖) is a seaside lake located in Hamamatsu city. It’s popular tourist destination as hot spring resort and visitors can enjoy many activities in and around the lake. The lake is also famous for producing Japanese eels which definitely worth trying.

If you are wondering what to do around Mt.Fuji, check this article below! ▶︎ Things to Do around Mt.Fuji

▽Here are the attractions you should experience across Japan with this Japan Bucket List!▽

▽Check more things to do in Chubu Region!▽

▶︎Best Things to Do in Toyama ▶︎Best Things to Do in Ishikawa ▶︎Best Things to Do in Fukui ▶︎Best Things to Do in Niigata ▶︎Best Things to Do in Yamanashi ▶︎Best Things to Do in Nagano ▶︎Best Things to Do in Gifu ▶︎Best Things to Do in Shizuoka ▶︎Best Things to Do in Aichi

For more ideas about travelling in and around Shizuoka area, here are some more similar articles for you 🙂

▽Related Articles▽

▼Editor’s Picks▼

"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have lived and explored countries around the world. As a resident of Japan and based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling Japan with my readers. I hope my story will help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

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• Things to Do

Discover The Shogun Legacy As You Travel Through Shizuoka

With Hulu’s acclaimed series , “Shogun,” shining a light on Japan’s feudal age, Shizuoka emerges as a destination for history fans . Shizuoka Prefecture, located along the famed “Golden Route” between Tokyo and Kyoto, is ideal for anyone interested in learning about Japan’s Shogun era. Moreover, it will captivate you with its scenery as you learn about this storied past and culture.

In this historical part of Japan, the legacy of the country’s illustrious Shoguns comes to life among the calmness of the landmark sites and nature. Visitors can follow in the footsteps of Minamoto Yoritomo — the courageous leader whose determination lightened Japan’s first Shogunate. They can also uncover the legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the revered Shogun whose reign shaped the course of Japanese history. All in all, Shizuoka plays an integral role in the significance of Shoguns.

Explore Shizuoka’s Attractions

Travelers should make their way to the city of Shizuoka. Here, the last Shogun, Tokugawa Yoshinobu, sought refuge from the chaos of a changing world. For a truly authentic experience, order a Kaiseki meal at his 19th-century retirement mansion, Fugetsuro. The house, just a short walk from the Shizuoka bullet train station, reveals a lot about the last Shogun. And, of course, one can’t talk about Shizuoka without mentioning its green tea, which is considered among the finest in Japan. The region’s hills are covered in colorful tea farms, where the craft of tea cultivation has been refined over decades. 

Visitors can take tea plantation excursions, pick tea, and enjoy the rich aromas of freshly brewed local tea. The Nihondaira area is ideal for expeditions, with views of Mount Fuji, the ocean, and endless tea plantations. Moreover, hot springs, a rocky shoreline, and beautiful waterfalls make the Izu Peninsula wonderful for anyone seeking relaxation and a return to nature. Meanwhile, the Oigawa Railway offers a nostalgic journey back in time, with its steam locomotives chugging through the heart of Shizuoka’s countryside, past mountains, and alongside rivers. 

Adventure and Food

Adventure seekers will find their haven in the Southern Alps, where trails lead through untouched wilderness. Paragliders often grace the sky over this area, and the rivers are perfect for rafting. At the same time, surfers and sunbathers are drawn to the Izu Peninsula’s beaches. And that’s not all. Shizuoka’s culinary scene reflects its natural bounty. The prefecture is renowned for its seafood, with Suruga Bay offering some of the richest catches in Japan. 

From succulent sakura shrimp to the prized Shizuoka wasabi, grown in the crystal-clear waters of the area’s mountain streams, the local cuisine will water your mouth. As the day wanes, there’s no better place to unwind than at one of Shizuoka’s many onsens (hot springs). The town of Atami, known for its hot spring resorts, provides a perfect setting for relaxation. 

Best Things to Do in Tokyo in April 2024: Events, Festivals & More

Spring brings a fresh start in Japan as April marks the beginning of the new academic and fiscal year. Packed with events, including cherry blossom festivals and traditional ceremonies, April culminates in the Golden Week holiday from April 27 to May 6 . Enjoy indoor events celebrating sakura and gourmet fairs, alongside vibrant spring flowers like azaleas and tulips. Use this curated guide to fun events in Tokyo and its surroundings for April.

Events Held at Popular Theme Parks & Tourist Spots

Traditional festivals, seasonal flower events, food & gourmet festivals, hunt for unique goods at japan's largest antique market, donald duck's quacky duck city at tokyo disney resort (maihama).

"Disney Palooza" is a special event series designed around the joy of having a blast with friends, filled with laughter and play. Kicking off with Minnie Mouse, the series passed the baton to Donald Duck for its second installment. The highlight of the event is the "Quacky Celebration: Donald The Legend!" entertainment program. Set in Donald's dream city, Duck City, it features a festival-like celebration where Disney characters gather to honor superstar Donald Duck. The performance, a vibrant spectacle of about 35 minutes, occurs once or twice daily along the parade route and in front of the castle ( Castle Forecourt). Transforming for the occasion, the entrance's flowerbed transitions from Mickey to Donald themes, and a Donald Duck monument takes center stage in the World Bazaar, immersing the park in Duck City decorations. Inspired by the world of Duck City, special merchandise and themed menus are available for purchase.

• Venue: Tokyo Disneyland
• Dates: April 9 - June 30, 2024
• Time: Refer to the official website as they vary depending on the period
• Price: Refer to the official website as they vary depending on the period
• Closed: Open daily during the event period
• Official website: Tokyo Disneyland Special Event "Disney's Palpalooza: Donald's Quacky Duck City

• Address 1-1, Maihama, Urayasu-shi, Chiba, 279-0031 View Map
• Nearest Station Maihama Station （JR Keiyo Line） 4 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 0570-00-8632

Tokyo Skytree Town® Spring Event 2024 (Oshiage)

Tokyo Skytree Town® is hosting various spring events until April 7th, featuring cherry blossom decorations throughout to create a springtime feel. At the Tokyo Skytree Tembo Deck Floor 350, visitors can find a photo spot designed to simulate the experience of viewing cherry blossoms from above. After sunset, the Tokyo Skytree® lights up with a special lighting display named Mai, turning it into the world's tallest cherry blossom through shades of pink and sparkling whites to capture the beauty of swirling cherry petals. Furthermore, artificial cherry blossoms set up at Solamachi Square on the first floor enhance the cherry blossom viewing atmosphere. The event also includes cherry blossom-themed limited menus and sweets , Solamachi Bread Marche 2024 featuring around 30 popular bakeries, and YORIMICHI CAFE STREET, where about 25 popular stores from the surrounding Oshiage area gather.

• Venue: Tokyo Skytree Town®
• Dates: March 1 - April 7, 2024
• Times: Refer to the official website as they vary depending on the event
• Price: Refer to the official website as prices vary depending on the event

• Address Oshiage 1-1-2, Sumida-ku, Tokyo, 131-0045 View Map
• Nearest Station Tokyo Skytree Station （Tobu Isesaki Line (Tobu Sky Tree Line)）
• Phone Number 0570-55-0634

NAKED SAKURA AQUARIUM (Shinagawa)

The Maxell Aquapark Shinagawa is hosting a spring limited event, "NAKED SAKURA AQUARIUM ", created by the creative production known as NAKED, pioneers in projection mapping. The concept invites visitors to enjoy cherry blossom viewing in a sea world alongside marine life, starting right from the entrance adorned in cherry blossoms. Featuring digital art inspired by a spring Japanese garden , "Sakura News" allows visitors to interact with cherry blossom-colored walls where flowers bloom at the touch of a hand. The event includes immersive experiences like "Dancing Sakura Garden " where fish swim among blossoms and "Spilling Sakura", an aquarium exhibit area themed around Japanese landscapes with cherry blossoms, offering engaging content that captivates all who visit. Also, a must-see is the "Dolphin Performance Night ver. Sakura Story", where dolphins perform dynamic jumps against a backdrop of a "Sea of Cherry Blossoms".

• Venue: Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa
• Dates: March 2 - April 19, 2024
• Times: 10 AM - 8 PM (Last admission at 7 PM)
• Price: Adults (High school students and above): 2,500 yen, Children (Elementary and middle school students): 1,300 yen, Toddlers (4 years and above): 800 yen
• Official website: NAKED SAKURA AQUARIUM
• Address Shinagawa Prince Hotel, 4-10-30 Takanawa, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8611

PuroSpringParty (Tama Center)

Sanrio Puroland is launching its first special event themed "Fresh," titled "PuroSpringParty." A highlight to look forward to is the "Ultra FRESH SAKURA PARTY!" where popular characters like Cinnamoroll, Pompompurin, Hello Kitty, and My Melody don vibrant new costumes in fresh pink and green, inviting guests to actively sing, dance, and enjoy in an interactive show . Additionally, there will be a limited-time photo spot where pressing a button plays the characters' voices, and the "PuroSpringParty Special Greeting," allowing guests to take photos with characters in their new costumes (this is a paid experience requiring prior reservation). The event will also feature a spring -themed menu, including cherry blossoms made of fish paste and vibrant orange slices.

• Venue: Sanrio Puroland
• Dates: April 12 - June 4, 2024
• Price: Refer to the official website as they vary depending on the date and time

• Address 1-31, Ochiai, Tama-shi, Tokyo, 206-8588 View Map
• Nearest Station Tama-Center Station （Tama Urban Monorail） 5 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 042-339-1111

Super Sakura! 2024 at ART AQUARIUM (Ginza)

The Art Aquarium Museum in Ginza presents a spring exhibition that showcases beautiful swimming goldfish with the enhancement of sound, light, and scent. The aquarium area is adorned with cherry blossom-colored lights, scents that evoke cherry blossoms, and cherry blossom flowers for a complete thematic experience. A standout feature is the "Lanternium," inspired by traditional Japanese festival lanterns, designed to mimic cherry blossoms falling from above. Special attention is given to spheres that act as magnifying lenses, making the goldfish appear larger. Other exhibits include artworks representing cherry tree-lined paths and "Weeping Cherry × Waterfall," capturing the essence of Japanese spring . The "New Goldfish Evaluation" showcases goldfish with "Sakura" in their names. Additionally, extending business hours until 8 PM on Wednesdays (with some exceptions) makes it a recommended post-dinner destination.

• Venue: Art Aquarium Museum GINZA
• Dates: March 1 - April 24, 2024
• Times: 10 AM - 7 PM (Subject to change); On March 6, 13, 27 and April 3, 10, 17, until 8 PM (Last entry at 7 PM)
• Price: Web ticket: 2,300 yen ( https://ticket.artaquarium.jp/ ), Same-day ticket: 2,500 yen (Available on the 9th floor of Ginza Mitsukoshi's new building)
• Closed: Follows the closing days of Ginza Mitsukoshi

• Address Ginza Mitsukoshi New Building 9th floor entrance, 4-6-16 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-8212 View Map
• Nearest Station Ginza Station （Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line / Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line） 3 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 03-3528-6721

The 66th Kamakura Festival (Kamakura)

Since 1959, events have been held around Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and various locations throughout the city. The opening event is the "Processional Parade" scheduled for April 14, 2024, starting at 10 AM. Participants, including the Kanagawa Prefectural Police Band, four portable shrines from the city, and groups performing traditional Japanese festival music, will march approximately 1 kilometer from Shimomaruko to the precincts of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine . This year, voice actors from the anime "The Elusive Samurai," airing in July 2024, will also participate. A must-see is the "Dance of Tranquility" performed at the shrine 's dance hall (April 14, from 3 PM). It's a dance dating back to the Kamakura period, performed by Shizuka Gozen , a court dancer, in memory of her beloved Minamoto no Yoshitsune, as ordered by Minamoto no Yoritomo. The dance is accompanied by a Japanese explanation. Additionally, on April 21, from 10 AM to 3 PM, outdoor tea ceremony seats, "Nodate seats," will be set up at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and Kamakura 's Great Buddha Hall, Kotoku-in, where visitors can enjoy matcha on chairs prepared for them.

• Venue: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and various locations in the city
• Dates: April 14 and April 21, 2024
• Times: Refer to the official website as it varies by event
• Closed: Open daily during the event
• Inquiries: Kamakura Tourist Association, 0467-23-3050 (Operating hours: 9 AM - 5 PM)
• Details: Kamakura City Tourism Association website

• Address 2-1-31, Yukinoshita, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa, 248-8588 View Map
• Nearest Station Kamakura Station （JR Yokosuka Line / JR Shonan Shinjuku Line / Enoshima Electric Railway Line） 10 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 0467-22-0315

Asakusa Yabusame (Asakusa)

Originally held as a New Year event at Asakusa Shrine during the Edo period, Taito Ward revived it in 1980 as a tourist attraction. Archers on galloping horses aim and shoot arrows at three sequential targets. The tense atmosphere, with the audience watching as the archers shoot targets from horseback, is truly spectacular. The Kamakura -era hunting attire worn by the archers is also worth seeing. Viewing the event requires a paid reservation in advance. Before the Yabusame (horseback archery) event begins, a "Kusajishi" (grass deer) archery, where archers shoot at deer-shaped targets made of grass bundles from about 20 meters away and approximately 110 meters high, is also held (free to view). The "Shiroku-no-gi" ceremony rewards archers who hit all three targets, evoking a trip back to the Edo period. The attire of the Kusajishi archers, featuring traditional eboshi (a type of headgear) and hitatare (a type of clothing), is also a highlight.

• Venue: Kusajishi at Sumida Park, Yamanohori Plaza; and Asakusa Yabusame at Sumida Park - between Sumida River Walk and Genmaku Bridge, both located in Taito Ward.
• Event Date: April 20, 2024
• Time: Kusajishi from 11:45 AM to 12:45 PM and Asakusa Yabusame from 1 PM to 2:30 PM.
• Admission: Kusajishi is free, while Asakusa Yabusame costs 3,000 yen per seat with advance reservation, inclusive of commemorative merchandise
• Details: Asakusa Yabusame (Taito City Website)

• Address Sumida Park, 7-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 111-0032 View Map
• Nearest Station Asakusa Station （Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / Toei Asakusa Line / Tobu Isesaki Line (Tobu Sky Tree Line) / Tsukuba Express） 5 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 03-5246-1111

Kawasaki Kanamara Phallus Festival 2024

The Kanamara Phallus Festival, a celebration of fertility, is one of Japan's most iconic festivals and has been popular in the Kawasaki area for centuries. The main parade is held on April 7 in and around Kanayama Shrine , and the event has gained significant attention in the past decade. During the festivities, a mikoshi (portable shrine ) is hoisted, which is a surreal sight to behold. It's no wonder that the festival draws around 30,000 international visitors each year, who join the local crowd in the festivities and are probably surprised by all the attention!

• Venue: Kanayama Shrine (near Kawasaki Daishi Station)
• Event Schedule: April 6 - 7 and April 13 - 14, 2024.
• April 6: Daikon radish shaving ceremony (2 - 3:30 PM) and Yoimiya Festival (5 - 6 PM).
• April 7: Sacred fire event (10 - 10:15 AM), Main ceremony (10:15 - 10:45 AM), Mikoshi enclosing ceremony (10:45 - 11 AM), Mikoshi parade (11:30 AM - 2:30 PM).
• April 13 - 14: Kanamara Market and mikoshi displays (10 AM - 5 PM).

• Address Wakamiya Hachimangu and Kanayama Shrine, 2-13-16 Daishi Ekimae, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, 210-0802 View Map
• Nearest Station Kawasaki-Daishi Station （Keikyu Daishi Line） 3 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 044-222-3206

The 53rd Bunkyo Azalea Festival (Nezu)

Nezu Shrine in Bunkyo Ward hosts a flower event in its Azalea Garden , which is only open during this season . The garden features early, mid, and late-blooming azaleas, which bloom in succession. No matter when you visit in April—early, mid, or late—you'll find unique charms. Early April showcases the striking contrast between the budding flowers and fresh greenery, with no flowers yet fallen. Mid-April offers the peak viewing period with the most varieties in bloom. By late April, while some flowers have faded, late bloomers can still be enjoyed. On weekends, food trucks and stalls are available. While the garden can be toured in about 20 to 30 minutes, be prepared for potential waits of up to an hour just to purchase entrance tickets, especially during weekends in mid-April. Please plan your visit with time to spare.

• Venue: Nezu Shrine
• Dates: March 30 - April 30, 2024
• Times: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
• Admission: 500 yen
• Azalea Festival Details ( Nezu Shrine website )

• Address 1-28-9, Nezu, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0031 View Map
• Nearest Station Nezu Station （Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line） 5 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 03-3822-0753

Sakura Tulip Festa 2024 (Sakura, Chiba)

Located on the southern shores of Lake Inba, the Sakura Furusato Square, known for its iconic Dutch windmill, hosts an event where approximately 800,000 tulips bloom, transforming the area into a vast field of tulips. About 700,000 tulips of roughly 100 varieties in colors like red, pink, and orange are planted, including early and late bloomers, ensuring visitors experience different charms whenever they visit. The event features unique and rare tulip varieties, including fragrant, color-changing, and variegated types, some of which are making their debut in Japan. During the event, visitors can enjoy tulip bulb digging for sale (13 for 600 yen on weekdays during the event period, otherwise 10 for 600 yen), and on weekends, performances by a small street organ that plays automatically when the handle is turned. Food trucks are available daily, and the shop sells tulip-themed souvenirs along with Sakura local souvenirs.

• Venue: Sakura Furusato Square
• Dates: March 27 - April 21, 2024
• Times: 9 AM - 4 PM
• Admission: Please refer to the official website for event-specific pricing
• Official Sakura tulip festival site
• Address 27147, Usuida, Sakura-shi, Chiba 285-0861

Kameido Tenjin Shrine Fuji (Wisteria) Festival 2024

Wisteria flowers typically begin to bloom in late April. These violet flowers are a source of fascination for many Japanese people due to their abundance when in bloom. The wisteria is also a prominent theme in Ukiyoe, a traditional Japanese style of art. The contrast of colors is very striking, as the Wisteria flowers reflect on the water of the pond below. We also recommend experiencing the illuminations at night for an unforgettable viewing experience.

• Venue: Kameido Tenjin Shrine
• Event Schedule: April 6 - 30, 2024
• Illumination from sunset until 9 PM
• Admission: Free

• Address 3-6-1, Kameido, Koutou-ku, Tokyo, 136-0071 View Map
• Nearest Station Kameido Station （Tobu Kameido Line / JR Sobu Line） 14 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 03-3681-0010

CRAFT SAKE WEEK 2024 at ROPPONGI HILLS (Roppongi)

The CRAFT SAKE WEEK at Roppongi Hills Arena is Japan's largest sake event, featuring 120 carefully selected breweries from over 1,400 nationwide. This selection process involves meticulous tasting by experts, including former professional soccer player Hidetoshi Nakata, sake specialists, and top chefs, allowing visitors to sample exquisite Japanese sake from across the country without the need to travel. In addition, 15 popular restaurants, some of which have earned Michelin stars and are usually difficult to book, will offer specially developed original menus at reasonable prices exclusively for this event. The venue, designed by one of Japan's leading architects, will be enhanced with music selected by popular DJs, creating an exciting atmosphere. Not just the sake and food, but the event also celebrates Japanese culture with uniquely Japanese sake vessels and dishes used for serving, offering an immersive experience into Japanese traditions.

• Venue: Roppongi Hills Arena
• Dates: April 18 - April 29, 2024
• Times: Noon - 9 PM (Last Order: 8:30 PM)
• Admission: Starter Set 3,600 yen (Includes original sake cup and 11 food/drink coins) (*For subsequent visits, entry is possible by purchasing additional coins with the starter kit glass.)
• Official website: CRAFT SAKE WEEK

• Address 6-10-1, Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6108 View Map
• Nearest Station Roppongi Station （Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line / Toei Oedo Line） 0 minute on foot
• Phone Number 03-6406-6000

Craft Gyoza Fest TOKYO 2024 (Komazawa)

At the Gyoza Festival, craft gyoza are on full display, showcasing dumplings meticulously crafted at every stage from the dough and filling to the dipping sauce, with each element carefully selected to create a distinctly Japanese twist on the traditional dish. This year, out of 28 diverse gyoza menu items, 18 are new. The lineup includes not just pan-fried gyoza but also boiled, fried, steamed varieties, and even soup dumplings, bringing together a wide array of gyoza variations. From innovative offerings like "Cheese-topped Burst Juice Round Gyoza " and "Coriander Walnut Gyoza " that challenge traditional gyoza concepts to local ingredient-utilizing varieties like "Little Edo Black Pork Winged Gyoza " and "Tokachi Rich Miso Butter Beef Cutlet Gyoza ", each vendor brings their unique twist and dedication to their creations (all priced at 700 yen per plate). The festival also features festival-exclusive fruit beers such as "Niagara Honey" and "Fuji Sakura Highland Beer Pilsner" among the craft beer selections.

• Venue: Komazawa Olympic Park Central Plaza
• Dates: April 26 - May 6, 2024
• Times: 10 AM - 8 PM (Weekdays: 11 AM - 8 PM)
• Admission: Free entry (*Food and drink purchases available (food tickets, electronic money accepted))
• Official website: Craft Gyoza Fest TOKYO

• Address 1-1, Komazawakouen, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 154-0013 View Map
• Nearest Station Komazawa-Daigaku Station （Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line） 15 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 03-3421-6199

Oedo Antique Market

Held once or twice a month at Yurakucho's Tokyo International Forum, this is Japan's largest outdoor antique market. The event began in September 2003 to commemorate 400 years since the establishment of the Edo shogunate and currently takes place on the first and third Sunday of each month. About 250 stores participate, offering a wide range of items from fine art and antiques to everyday vintage goods.

The selection includes Japanese antiques dating back approximately 300 years as well as recent American vintage items, providing a rich assortment that offers a glimpse into Japanese history and culture. Its location is also a draw, being just a crosswalk away from Yurakucho Station and a five-minute walk from Tokyo Station .

• Venue: Yurakucho / Tokyo International Forum
• Dates: March 24, April 7, April 28, 2024
• Official website: Oedo antique market

• Address 3-5-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-0005 View Map
• Nearest Station Yurakucho Station （JR Keihin-Tohoku Line / JR Yamanote Line / Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line） 1 minute on foot
• Phone Number 03-5221-9000

The array of events in April this year spans from historic festivals held annually to the latest food festivals and open-air antique markets. Under the gentle spring skies, these events offer plenty of opportunities for enjoyment and relaxation. Be sure to check them out! (*Note: The information in this article is as of March 2024. Please check official websites or sources for the latest updates.)

Written by:

Kaori Kimura

Kaori Kimura is a Japanese travel writer with roughly 20 years of experience in editing and publishing travel guides. After graduating from university, she worked at a publishing company for about 10 years, specializing in travel guides. She has undertaken numerous assignments both internationally, including in places like Paris, France, and Taiwan, as well as domestically in areas such as Hokkaido and Kyushu. Following this, she lived in Guangzhou, China for about two years as an expatriate spouse and contributed to local media, writing on economics and travel guides. Upon returning to Japan, she gained experience in editing and writing for web media. A key strength of hers is her involvement in creating travel guide articles for both inbound and outbound tourism. She possesses the highest level (HSK-6) of the standardized Chinese language proficiency test, level 2 in Japan's French language test, and EIKEN Grade Pre-1.

• Area Ryogoku / TOKYO SKYTREE(R)
• Category Spring

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