Things To Do
in Shimada
Shimada sits along the Ōi River in Shizuoka Prefecture, surrounded by green tea plantations and rolling hills. The city blends traditional tea culture with modern hospitality, riverside trails, and craft-friendly streets. It serves as a relaxed base for exploring nearby countryside, historic neighborhoods, and scenic viewpoints.
Seasonal harvests and local tea traditions give visitors an authentic taste of rural Shizuoka life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Shimada City Museum, where you can learn about the region's rich history and culture. Stroll through the picturesque streets lined with traditional wooden houses and enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café. Don't forget to stop by the nearby tea shops to sample some of the finest Shizuoka green tea.
After lunch, head to the famous Nakamura-ryoma Memorial Museum, dedicated to the life of the influential Japanese figure, Ryoma Sakamoto. Explore the stunning gardens surrounding the museum and take in the beautiful views of the city. As you wander through the area, look out for the unique 'Shimada Yaki' pottery workshops, where you can observe artisans at work.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at a local restaurant, where each dish is a work of art. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, where you can admire the serene scenery and perhaps catch a glimpse of the sunset. End your day with a visit to a local onsen, soaking in the natural hot springs and reflecting on your adventures.
Begin your day by visiting a nearby tea plantation, where you can learn about the tea production process and participate in a tea-picking experience. Enjoy the fresh air as you stroll through the lush green fields, surrounded by the scenic hills of Shizuoka. After picking, relax with a refreshing cup of freshly brewed green tea and enjoy the beautiful landscape.
Post-lunch, dive deeper into the tea culture by visiting a local tea factory, where you can observe the intricate steps of tea processing. Participate in a tea tasting session, learning the nuances of different varieties and their health benefits. This immersive experience will deepen your appreciation for Japan's storied tea traditions.
As the sun sets, head back to the city and enjoy a casual dinner at a local izakaya, sampling various Japanese appetizers and local specialties. Engage with the friendly locals and fellow travelers to share stories and recommendations. Finish the evening with a walk through the bustling streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Shimada at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Lunch for one at a mid-range cafe | $12-20 |
| 🚆One-way transit ticket (local) | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night, 2 people) | $70-140 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, scenic setting with genuine tea culture
- Safe environment and easy to navigate
- Good base for exploring rural Shizuoka and nearby attractions
- Limited nightlife and English signage in smaller venues
- Transportation may be less frequent than big cities
- Smaller-scale dining options compared to larger urban centers
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "いくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "お願いします" - Please / I would like to
Places to Visit in Shimada
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views with tea fields in the distance; golden-hour lighting makes for peaceful, reflective shots.
Elevated vantage points over neatly arranged green tea rows; great for wide landscape photos and seasonal color.
A quiet street with traditional storefronts and wooden façades, perfect for capturing old-town charm.
Food in Shimada
Shimada Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Desserts and confections infused with the local green tea (matcha), often featuring glaze, mousse, or mochi textures.
Must-Try!
Tempura made with sakura-ebi small shrimp from Suruga Bay, offering a delicate seafood flavor and crisp batter.
Rice served with hot tea over the top, accompanied by pickled vegetables and seasonal toppings for a comforting, light meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A riverside market featuring fresh vegetables, teas, and affordable street snacks; great for sampling seasonal bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents value politeness and quiet in public spaces; keep voices down on public transport and in residential areas.
Remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional spaces. Bowing is a common greeting; exchange business cards with both hands when applicable.
Follow local rules for bathing, wash before entering, and keep towels out of the shared bath.
Safety
Tipping in Shimada
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan. Exceptional service is expected to be included in the price; if you wish, a small amount can be given for exceptional service, but it is not required.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller eateries. Many shops and larger establishments accept credit cards, and mobile payments are increasingly common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather, blooming trees, and a calm atmosphere. Bring light layers and enjoy seasonal markets and tea events.
Hot and humid with afternoon showers possible. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and explore early in the day.
Pleasant temperatures and autumn foliage provide ideal scenery for walks and photos; jacket recommended for evenings.
Cool and fresh air with occasional foggy mornings. Layers and a warm jacket will keep you comfortable during outdoor activities.
Shimada at Night
Hiking in Shimada
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy-to-moderate trail along the river with scenic water views and tea field glimpses; suitable for a relaxed hike.
Moderate hike through tea plantations with viewpoints over the valley; best during blossom or harvest seasons.
Airports
How to reach Shimada by plane.
Regional airport serving Shizuoka and western prefectures; convenient access to Shimada by train or bus, with domestic flights and limited international connections.
Major hub near Nagoya offering extensive domestic and international flights; a practical gateway for longer trips before traveling to Shimada by rail.
Large international hub with frequent domestic connections; ideal for travelers continuing to Shimada via Shinkansen or highway bus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents live in family-oriented neighborhoods with local schools and community events.
Aging population is common in regional Japan; services and community centers cater to seniors.
Young adults travel for school or work, contributing to a lively daytime rhythm in the town.
Tourists visiting for tea culture, markets, and nature experiences contribute to a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played at schools and community levels across the region; you may catch a local game during spring or summer.
Popular among youth and in regional clubs; local pitches are common and accessible.
Nearby courses offer scenic treks through gentle hills and tea country scenery.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shimada.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes made with tofu, vegetables, and rice; ask about dashi (fish stock)–free options, and request vegetable-focused meals when possible.