Explore Shizuoka
The Gateway to Mount Fuji, Scenic Coasts, and Green Tea

Shizuoka Prefecture, located along Japan’s Pacific coastline, is renowned for its stunning views of Mount Fuji, world-famous green tea, and breathtaking natural scenery. Whether you're exploring historic temples, indulging in fresh seafood, or relaxing in onsen resorts, Shizuoka offers an unforgettable travel experience for visitors seeking both adventure and relaxation.

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Best Food in Shizuoka: Must-Try Local Dishes

Shizuoka is a haven for food lovers, offering some of Japan’s freshest seafood and regional delicacies.

  • Shizuoka Green Tea: Renowned worldwide for its high quality and deep umami flavor.
  • Sakura Shrimp: A rare and flavorful shrimp harvested only in Shizuoka’s Suruga Bay.
  • Unagi (Grilled Eel): A specialty of Hamamatsu, featuring perfectly grilled eel with a sweet-savory sauce.
  • Shizuoka Oden: A local take on Japan’s famous stew, known for its rich, soy-based broth and black hanpen fish cake.
  • Wasabi Dishes: Freshly grated wasabi, grown in the pristine waters of Shizuoka, is a must-try for spice lovers.

Shizuoka Festivals & Events: Seasonal Highlights

Shizuoka hosts lively festivals that celebrate its history, nature, and cultural heritage.

  • Shizuoka Matsuri (April): A spring festival featuring traditional parades and cherry blossom celebrations.
  • Hamamatsu Kite Festival (May): An exciting event where giant kites battle in the sky over Nakatajima Sand Dunes.
  • Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival (February-March): One of the earliest cherry blossom festivals in Japan, drawing visitors for its vibrant pink blooms.
  • Shimizu Minato Festival (August): A dynamic summer festival featuring fireworks and traditional dance performances.
  • Mt. Fuji Climbing Season (July-September): An iconic adventure for those looking to summit Japan’s most famous mountain.

Outdoor Activities in Shizuoka: Things to Do Year-Round

Shizuoka’s diverse landscapes offer endless outdoor adventures for nature enthusiasts.

  • Hiking Mount Fuji: The most iconic trek in Japan, offering breathtaking views from the summit.
  • Exploring the Izu Peninsula: A coastal paradise with scenic cliffs, beaches, and hot springs.
  • Cycling Along the Suruga Bay Coast: Ride through stunning oceanfront routes with Fuji in the background.
  • Diving in Atami & Izu: Discover vibrant marine life in some of Japan’s top diving spots.
  • Relaxing in Shuzenji Onsen: A peaceful hot spring town surrounded by lush nature.

Must-Visit Places in Shizuoka: Top Attractions

Shizuoka is home to stunning cultural sites, scenic landscapes, and hidden gems.

  • Miho no Matsubara: A UNESCO-listed scenic spot offering spectacular views of Mount Fuji.
  • Kunozan Toshogu Shrine: A beautifully crafted shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, located atop a scenic hill.
  • Shiraito Falls: A breathtaking waterfall cascading like silk threads, located near Mount Fuji.
  • Hamamatsu Castle: A historic samurai fortress known as the stronghold of Tokugawa Ieyasu.
  • Numazu Deep Sea Aquarium: A unique aquarium showcasing rare deep-sea creatures from Suruga Bay.

Getting Around Shizuoka: Public Transportation Guide

Shizuoka’s well-developed transportation network makes it easy to explore the region.

  • Tokaido Shinkansen: Connects Shizuoka to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka in under two hours.
  • Shizuoka Railway (Shizutetsu): A convenient local rail system linking major city attractions.
  • Izu Hakone Railway: Provides access to scenic destinations on the Izu Peninsula.
  • Ferries to Izu Islands: A great way to explore nearby island retreats.
  • Rental Cars & Buses: Ideal for accessing remote onsen towns and mountain areas.

Best Hotels in Shizuoka: Where to Stay

Shizuoka offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to cozy ryokan inns.

  • Luxury Hotels: Stay at Atami Korakuen Hotel, featuring ocean views and onsen baths.
  • Traditional Ryokan: Experience authentic Japanese hospitality at Shuzenji Onsen’s Arai Ryokan.
  • Hot Spring Resorts: Relax in Izu’s Asaba Ryokan, one of Japan’s most famous onsen retreats.
  • Budget-Friendly Hotels: Comfortable stays like Hotel Century Shizuoka offer great city access.
  • Seaside Resorts: Enjoy stunning coastal views at Shimoda Tokyu Hotel.

Shizuoka’s Cultural Heritage: Experience Unique Traditions

Shizuoka preserves its rich history through traditional crafts, historic sites, and cultural experiences.

  • Tea Plantation Tours in Makinohara: Learn about the tea-making process and sample freshly brewed green tea.
  • Samurai History at Sunpu Castle Park: Walk through the ruins of Tokugawa Ieyasu’s former castle.
  • Atami Geisha Performances: Witness elegant geisha performances in the famous Atami hot spring town.
  • Japanese Sword-Making in Seki: Experience the art of crafting traditional katana swords.
  • Wasabi Farm Visits in Izu: Discover how wasabi is grown in pure mountain streams.

Best Souvenirs from Shizuoka: What to Buy

Take home a piece of Shizuoka with these unique local souvenirs.

  • Shizuoka Green Tea: Premium quality tea, perfect for gifts and personal enjoyment.
  • Wasabi Products: Fresh wasabi, wasabi-flavored snacks, and condiments.
  • Handmade Lacquerware from Izu: Beautiful handcrafted bowls, trays, and chopsticks.
  • Atami Onsen Bath Salts: Bring home the relaxing benefits of Shizuoka’s famous hot springs.
  • Sakura Shrimp Crackers: A delicious seafood snack unique to Suruga Bay.

Plan Your Shizuoka Adventure Today!

From breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and pristine coastlines to world-class tea plantations and rich samurai history, Shizuoka offers an unparalleled travel experience. Whether you're seeking relaxation in onsen resorts, thrilling outdoor adventures, or exquisite local cuisine, Shizuoka is a must-visit destination in Japan.

For more travel inspiration, check out our Japan travel guides and start planning your trip to Shizuoka today!