Things To Do
in Hamamatsu

Hamamatsu, Japan, is a vibrant city located in Shizuoka Prefecture, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. It is renowned as the birthplace of several musical instruments, including the piano and the harmonica, and hosts the annual Hamamatsu Festival, showcasing traditional Japanese culture. The city's strategic location between the Pacific Ocean and the Southern Alps offers breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor activities.

Hamamatsu also serves as an industrial hub, contributing significantly to Japan's economy.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cultural Heritage
morning
:

Start your day at the Hamamatsu Castle, where you can explore the historical grounds and enjoy views from the top of the castle tower.

afternoon
:

Visit the Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments to discover the history of music in Japan and see a variety of instruments from around the world.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at a local izakaya, savoring regional specialties.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Head to the Nakatajima Sand Dunes for a scenic walk and enjoy the unique coastal landscape.

afternoon
:

Visit the Hamamatsu Flower Park, where you can explore beautifully landscaped gardens and seasonal flowers.

evening
:

Relax at a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind after a day of exploration.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
Coffee$4
🚌Bus Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Delicious local cuisine and fresh seafood
  • Limited English-speaking services
  • Public transport may be less frequent in rural areas
  • Summer heat and humidity can be uncomfortable
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "助けてください" - Please help me
  • "はい" - Yes

Places to Visit in Hamamatsu

Visit one of these nice places.

Hamamatsu Castle

An iconic historical site surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.

Nakatajima Sand Dunes

Stunning coastal dunes with picturesque views of the ocean, particularly at sunset.

Hamamatsu Flower Park

A colorful park featuring seasonal flowers and beautiful landscapes, perfect for capturing vibrant photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hamamatsu

Hamamatsu is a culinary delight, offering a range of unique local dishes that reflect its coastal geography and agricultural heritage.

Hamamatsu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hamamatsu Gyoza

Pan-fried dumplings filled with a mix of vegetables and meat, known for their crispy texture.

Must-Try!

Unagi (Grilled Eel)

Freshly caught eel grilled over charcoal and served with a sweet soy-based sauce.

Sakura Shrimp

Tiny, flavorful shrimp that are often used in various dishes such as tempura and rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hamamatsu Yatai Street

A vibrant street lined with food stalls offering various local street foods and snacks.

Hamamatsu Central Market

A bustling market featuring fresh seafood, produce, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hamamatsu experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters (December to February) are mild, averaging around 5°C (41°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are characterized by pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Silence

Maintain a quiet demeanor in public spaces such as trains and restaurants.

Politeness and Bowing

Bowing is a common greeting; always show respect to locals and service staff.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hamamatsu is considered a safe city for both locals and tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies.

Tipping in Hamamatsu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be seen as rude; excellent service is expected as part of the experience.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used in Japan, but credit cards are accepted in many establishments; ATMs that accept foreign cards are available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming cherry blossoms, making it ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Summers can be hot and humid, perfect for enjoying coastal activities and festivals.

Autumn

Fall brings cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage, great for hiking and nature walks.

Winter

Winters are mild but can be rainy; it's a good time to enjoy indoor attractions and hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Hamamatsu at Night

Hamamatsu offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of izakayas, bars, and karaoke establishments. The city center is lively, with many venues catering to both locals and tourists. You can enjoy traditional Japanese drinks such as sake and shochu, along with local craft beers. Karaoke rooms are popular, providing a fun way to enjoy the evening with friends. The atmosphere is generally welcoming and safe for visitors.

Hiking in Hamamatsu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Fujisan Trail

A challenging hike that leads to the iconic Mount Fuji, offering stunning panoramic views.

Tenryu River Hiking Trail

A scenic trail following the Tenryu River, suitable for all levels and providing beautiful river views.

Airports

How to reach Hamamatsu by plane.

Shizuoka Airport

Located about 30 km from Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hamamatsu is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are concentrated. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are common. However, some areas may require public transport or a short drive to reach, especially for attractions outside the central district.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Hamamatsu has a significant student population due to its various universities and colleges.

Senior Citizens

The city is home to a growing number of senior citizens, contributing to community activities and local culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a popular sport in Hamamatsu, with local teams competing in regional leagues and a strong fanbase.

Motorcycle Racing

The city is known for its motorcycle culture, hosting events and races that attract enthusiasts from all over Japan.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hamamatsu can be busy during peak hours, but overall it is manageable. Public transportation includes trains, buses, and taxis, making it easy to navigate the city. The Tokaido Shinkansen (bullet train) also connects Hamamatsu to major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, providing fast travel options.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hamamatsu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While many dishes contain meat or seafood, vegetarian options are available in certain restaurants, particularly in the form of vegetable tempura and soba noodles.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but rice-based dishes and certain vegetable preparations are suitable.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Hamamatsu is good, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and visitors. Emergency medical services are reliable, and most medical staff speak basic English. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while visiting.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide