Things To Do
in Shimizu
Shimizu is a coastal city located in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its picturesque views of Mount Fuji and Suruga Bay. The city is famous for its fishing industry, particularly for its tuna auctions at the local fish market.
Visitors can also enjoy relaxing in hot springs and exploring historical sites such as Sumpu Castle.
- "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 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Sirogane Park for a peaceful walk among cherry blossoms. Grab a light breakfast at a nearby café.
Explore the Shimizu Fish Market and enjoy fresh seafood for lunch. Don't forget to sample local specialties such as sushi and grilled fish.
Relax at Miho no Matsubara beach while watching the beautiful sunset over Mount Fuji. Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at a seaside restaurant.
Embark on a hike at the nearby Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, nestled in the mountains. The stunning views and peaceful surroundings make for a refreshing morning.
Visit the Shimizu Aquarium and learn about various marine life. Enjoy lunch at the aquarium’s café, featuring local seafood dishes.
Head to the Shimizu Bay and take a scenic boat tour. Dine at a local izakaya, trying different Japanese tapas-style dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
- Delicious local seafood and cuisine.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking and water sports.
- Friendly and welcoming community.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
- Risk of natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons.
- Public transport options may be less frequent.
- Higher living costs due to its coastal location.
Best Activities in Shimizu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the bustling Shimizu Fishing Port, where you can enjoy fresh seafood, watch fishermen at work, and even take part in fishing tours.
Visit Miho no Matsubara, a scenic beach famous for its pine trees and views of Mount Fuji. It's a perfect spot for picnicking and leisurely walks.
A vibrant commercial complex with shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Enjoy outdoor spaces with views of Suruga Bay.
A beautiful park featuring wide lawns, cherry blossoms, and walking paths. It's ideal for relaxing and enjoying nature.
Take a hike up to Nihondaira Plateau for breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Fuji, the Izu Peninsula, and the coastline.
Discover the natural beauty of the Shizuoka region through engaging outdoor exhibits and trails surrounding the museum.
Enjoy a day of sun and surf at Yui Beach, which offers swimming, beach volleyball, and stunning sunsets over the ocean.
Visit the historical site which features a beautiful outdoor area and offers a glimpse into the history of the region.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shimizu with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shimizu
Visit one of these nice places.
A vibrant market area that offers stunning views of the ocean and Mount Fuji on clear days. It's a great spot for capturing local life and seafood delicacies.
This historic shrine is situated on a hillside and provides breathtaking views of Shimizu and Suruga Bay, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
The port area offers picturesque views of ships, the coastline, and the distant mountains, ideal for sunset photography.
Famous for its beautiful pine forest and views of Mount Fuji, this beach area is a UNESCO World Heritage site perfect for landscape photography.
A hiking location that provides panoramic views of Shimizu, the Pacific Ocean, and often, a clear sight of Mount Fuji from its summit.
This entertainment complex offers views of the harbor and the surrounding area, with various photo opportunities of the attractions inside.
A walkway along the waterfront that features beautiful views of the sea and is lined with cherry blossoms, perfect for spring photography.
Food in Shimizu
Shimizu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sakura shrimp, a local delicacy, is known for its sweet and delicate flavor. It can be enjoyed in various forms such as tempura, sashimi, or as a topping for rice bowls. Visit the Shimizu Fish Market to savor fresh Sakura shrimp.
Must-Try!
Hamo, or pike conger, is a seasonal delicacy in Shimizu known for its tender flesh and unique flavor. It is often prepared as a grilled dish or in a hot pot. Look for local restaurants specializing in Hamo dishes near the Shimizu Port for an authentic experience.
Sazae, a type of turban shell, is a popular seafood in Shimizu. It is often enjoyed as sashimi or grilled. For the best Sazae dishes, head to the seaside stalls and street food vendors along the Shimizu coast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Shimizu Fish Market is a bustling hub where visitors can sample a wide range of freshly caught seafood, including local specialties like Sakura shrimp and Sazae. It's a great place to savor the flavors of Shimizu and experience the vibrant fish market culture.
Exploring the street food stalls near Shimizu Port offers a fantastic opportunity to indulge in a variety of seafood-based snacks and dishes. From grilled Sazae to fresh sashimi, these stalls offer an authentic and lively food experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Shimizu, as in much of Japan, bowing is a traditional way to greet someone and show respect. Handshakes may not be common, so it’s best to bow slightly when greeting others.
It is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home, temples, and certain traditional accommodations. Always look for designated areas for shoes or slippers provided for guests.
Using polite language is very important in Japanese culture. Always use respectful terms and gestures, such as saying 'arigatou gozaimasu' (thank you) and being humble when receiving compliments.
Safety
Tipping in Shimizu
Ensure a smooth experience
In Shimizu, as well as in the rest of Japan, tipping is generally not a common practice. Service charges are usually included in the final bill, and exceptional service is anticipated as part of the job. However, if a customer feels particularly pleased with the service, they may express gratitude through small tokens of appreciation, but this is rare.
Payment methods in Shimizu include cash and various electronic payment options. Credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants, shops, and hotels, but cash is still preferred in smaller establishments. The Japanese yen is the official currency. It's common to place cash in a small tray provided by the staff rather than handing it directly to them, which is seen as more polite.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is an excellent time to visit Shimizu. The weather is mild and cherry blossoms bloom, creating beautiful landscapes. Expect pleasant temperatures, blossom festivals, and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid in Shimizu. This is also the season for various festivals, including fireworks displays. Expect warmer temperatures, summer events, and a vibrant atmosphere, although be prepared for occasional rain.
Autumn (September to November) is another ideal time to visit, characterized by cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. Expect vibrant colors in the parks and mountains, comfortable weather, and harvest festivals celebrating local produce.
Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, but it's a magical time, especially around New Year when many local traditions take place. Expect fewer crowds, potential snowfall in nearby areas, and beautiful, serene landscapes.
Shimizu at Night
Hiking in Shimizu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and is a great spot for hiking, especially in the spring when the wildflowers bloom.
A vast area with various trails for all skill levels, providing a mix of lush greenery and scenic landscapes.
A popular hiking destination with trails leading to the summit, offering panoramic views of the Suruga Bay and the surrounding region.
Features coastal trails that provide stunning ocean views along with opportunities to see local wildlife and flora.
A historic site that can be reached by hiking trails that wind through picturesque forests and offer cultural insights along the way.
Aiports
How to reach Shimizu by plane.
One of the two primary airports serving the Tokyo area, Haneda is located approximately 170 kilometers from Shimizu and is known for its close proximity to the city center.
Located about 200 kilometers from Shimizu, Narita Airport is the main international airport serving Tokyo and is a major hub for international flights.
Located roughly 300 kilometers from Shimizu, Kansai International Airport serves the Kansai region, including Osaka and Kyoto, and is a significant international gateway.
Situated about 150 kilometers from Shimizu, this airport serves the Nagoya area and is a key international hub within Japan.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, it is located approximately 300 kilometers from Shimizu and primarily serves domestic flights, but it has some international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group, comprising the majority of the city's population.
A significant minority, primarily consisting of Korean residents and descendants living in Shimizu.
Another notable demographic group, with a community that includes both long-term residents and recent migrants.
A growing demographic, largely consisting of workers in various industries within the city.
Includes residents from various countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Shimizu, with a rich history and a strong local following. High school baseball tournaments are a significant event in the area.
Soccer has grown in popularity in Shimizu, with local clubs and schools actively promoting the sport. The region has produced several professional players.
Basketball is widely played in schools and community centers. Shimizu has a vibrant youth basketball culture with various leagues and competitions.
Track and field events are popular in Shimizu, with many schools participating in local and regional competitions.
Volleyball is actively played at schools and community sports events, with both men’s and women’s teams competing at various levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shimizu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is prevalent in Shimizu's cuisine, several restaurants and cafes in the area offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as tempura vegetables, tofu-based dishes, and vegetable sushi rolls. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly, and some establishments may accommodate special requests.
For visitors with gluten intolerance, it's recommended to inquire about gluten-free options at restaurants. Some traditional Japanese dishes, like sashimi and rice-based meals, can be suitable for those avoiding gluten. Additionally, communicating dietary requirements to the staff can help in identifying suitable menu items.