Things To Do
in Shimada
Shimada is a charming city located in the Shizuoka Prefecture of Japan. It is known for its historical significance as the former castle town of the powerful Tokugawa clan. The city offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions, including beautiful temples and shrines, as well as museums showcasing the region's rich heritage.
Shimada is also famous for its delicious green tea, with tea plantations dotting the landscape.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Shimada City Museum to learn about the local culture and history. Don't forget to check out the artifacts dedicated to the Edo period.
Explore the historic streets of Shimada, taking in the traditional architecture. Stop by local shops for unique souvenirs and snacks.
Dinner at a local izakaya, enjoying fresh seafood dishes. Stroll along the river to unwind and take in the tranquil sounds of water.
Hike in Yuugenshan, a beautiful area filled with lush greenery and scenic views. Capture photos of the stunning landscapes.
Visit the Shimada Green Park for a leisurely afternoon picnic. Enjoy the space while observing local wildlife.
Head back to town for a relaxing dinner at a family-run restaurant. Sample some seasonal cuisine mixed with regional flavors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and traditional festivals.
- Beautiful natural scenery including coastlines and mountains.
- Proximity to other major cities in Japan, enhancing travel opportunities.
- Strong sense of community and local traditions.
- Access to fresh seafood and local cuisine.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors compared to larger cities.
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
- Fewer entertainment and shopping options compared to urban areas.
- Risk of natural disasters, such as earthquakes and typhoons.
- Transportation may be less efficient than in metropolitan areas.
Best Activities in Shimada
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails and beautiful landscapes of the surrounding mountains in Shimada, Japan.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the enchanting Wisteria Tunnel, known for its stunning floral displays.
Experience an exciting adventure by embarking on a river rafting trip along the Oi River, surrounded by picturesque natural scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shimada with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shimada
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic waterfall with beautiful natural surroundings and walking paths, offering stunning photo opportunities.
A park with great views of Mt. Fuji and Shimizu Port, perfect for capturing scenic landscapes.
An iconic bridge with panoramic views of the Oi River and the surrounding mountains, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Food in Shimada
Shimada Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sakura Ebi, or cherry shrimp, is a local specialty renowned for its delicate flavor. It is commonly used in dishes such as Ebi Kakiage (a tempura dish) and mixed into rice. Visitors can try Sakura Ebi at traditional restaurants and izakayas throughout Shimada, particularly in the vicinity of the fishing port.
Must-Try!
Shimada is famous for its high-quality unagi, or freshwater eel. Unadon, a rice bowl dish topped with grilled eel and a sweet soy-based sauce, is a must-try. Indulge in this delicacy at local unagi specialty restaurants, which carefully grill the eel to perfection.
Shimada takes pride in its matcha production, and the town boasts an array of delectable matcha-flavored treats. Visitors can find matcha-infused ice cream, dorayaki, and wagashi (traditional Japanese confectionery) at various dessert shops and cafes across the town.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Shimada better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Shimada Fish Market is a treasure trove for seafood enthusiasts. Visitors can sample freshly caught fish and shellfish or enjoy a casual seafood barbecue at the market's outdoor stalls. It's an ideal spot to experience the local fishing culture and savor the freshest catches of the day.
Venture into the bustling streets of Shimada to discover a delightful array of street food stalls. Here, visitors can relish grilled seafood skewers, takoyaki (octopus balls), and savory crepes, among other tantalizing treats. It's a fantastic way to immerse in the vibrant food scene and mingle with locals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Shimada, it is important to show respect for elders through polite language and gestures like bowing.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home or certain public spaces in Shimada as a sign of respect for cleanliness.
Using chopsticks in Shimada requires knowledge of proper etiquette such as not sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as it resembles a funeral ritual.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Shimada with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Shimada
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Shimada. It is generally not expected or required to tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Shimada, Japan, cash is the most common form of payment. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major establishments, but it's always a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller stores and more traditional businesses.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Shimada.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for the cherry blossoms and pleasant weather. Expect mild temperatures and colorful landscapes.
Warm and humid weather with occasional rainy spells. Ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and festivals.
Beautiful fall foliage and comfortable temperatures. Perfect for exploring the scenic surroundings and enjoying traditional autumn festivals.
Cold weather with occasional snowfall. Great for enjoying winter sports and experiencing unique cultural events.
Shimada at Night
Hiking in Shimada
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque range offering various hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and nearby rivers.
A local park with trails that provide a balance of nature and recreational facilities, ideal for family hikes and leisurely strolls.
A beautiful hiking area leading to a scenic waterfall, perfect for nature lovers looking for a tranquil experience.
This trail offers a challenging hike through lush forests and hills, rewarding hikers with panoramic views at the summit.
A popular hiking destination known for its well-marked trails and breathtaking vistas, suitable for hikers of varying skill levels.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Shimada through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Shimada by plane.
The closest international airport to Shimada, located about 11 km away, serving domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 140 km from Shimada, this airport serves as a major hub for international flights in the Chubu region.
Also known as Komaki Airport, situated about 150 km from Shimada, primarily handling domestic flights but with some international services.
Located around 220 km from Shimada, it serves as a major gateway to Japan, handling a large number of international flights.
Approximately 210 km away, one of the busiest airports in the world, serving numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary ethnic and cultural group in Shimada, comprising the vast majority of the population.
A smaller demographic group in Shimada, consisting of both long-term residents and newer immigrants from South Korea.
Another minority group within Shimada, primarily made up of recent immigrants and their descendants.
Includes various smaller groups from other Asian countries, such as Vietnam and the Philippines.
A small community of Western foreigners, often working in business or teaching.
The Soul of Shimada
Discover the essence of Shimada through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Japan, including Shimada, with a strong local following and youth leagues.
Soccer has seen a rise in popularity, with local teams and youth academies contributing to its growth in Shimada.
While not a sport in the traditional sense, bonsai cultivation and gardening are popular activities in Shimada, often celebrated in local festivals.
Softball is enjoyed by many in Shimada, with both recreational and competitive leagues available.
Tennis is popular among both youth and adults in Shimada, with local clubs and courts available for play.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and kendo, are practiced in Shimada, emphasizing discipline and physical fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shimada.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Shimada's culinary landscape primarily focuses on seafood and meat-based dishes, several restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian-friendly options such as vegetable tempura, tofu-based dishes, and fresh salads. It's advisable for vegetarians to communicate their dietary preferences to ensure a satisfying dining experience.
Vegan visitors can find plant-based choices at select eateries in Shimada, including vegan sushi rolls, rice bowls with mixed vegetables, and fruit-based desserts. Prior communication with the establishment regarding vegan requirements is recommended to facilitate a fulfilling dining outing.
Though gluten-free offerings may be limited in traditional establishments, some modern cafes and restaurants in Shimada are attentive to gluten-free needs, offering rice-based dishes, gluten-free desserts, and customizable menu options. Communicating specific dietary restrictions to the staff can lead to tailored dining solutions.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Shimada with these cultural adventures.
