Things To Do
in Shimizu

Shimizu, located in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, is a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning views of Mount Fuji and rich maritime heritage. The area boasts a blend of modern amenities and traditional Japanese culture, making it a perfect destination for travelers. Shimizu is also famous for its fresh seafood and lush green surroundings.

Visitors can explore historical sites, scenic parks, and enjoy the vibrant local food scene.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Shimizu
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Shimizu Fish Market to experience the local seafood culture and enjoy a fresh sushi breakfast.

afternoon
:

Visit the Miho no Matsubara, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to take in the beautiful views of pine trees against the backdrop of Mount Fuji.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya, where you can try a variety of Japanese dishes and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Explore the Shimizu S-Pulse Dream Plaza, which features shops, restaurants, and an aquarium, providing a fun and educational experience.

afternoon
:

Take a relaxing stroll at the Shimizu Port where you can see fishing boats and enjoy the seaside parks.

evening
:

End your day by sampling local sake at a nearby sake brewery, learning about the brewing process and tasting different varieties.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$20
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
Coffee$4
🍺Local Beer$6
🚆Train Ticket$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning views of Mount Fuji
  • Rich cultural experiences with local cuisine
  • Friendly and welcoming community
  • Limited English-speaking locals
  • Public transport can be crowded
  • Fewer entertainment options compared to larger cities
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Shimizu

Visit one of these nice places.

Miho no Matsubara

This scenic area offers stunning views of Mount Fuji framed by beautiful pine trees, perfect for landscape photography.

Shimizu Port

Capture vibrant sunsets and the bustling activity of the fishing boats in this picturesque port.

Shimizu Fish Market

A lively market scene filled with colorful displays of fresh seafood, ideal for capturing the essence of local culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Shimizu

Shimizu is a seafood lover's paradise, offering a diverse range of local dishes that celebrate the region's maritime bounty. From fresh sushi to unique street food, there is no shortage of culinary delights.

Shimizu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sakura Shrimp

A local specialty, these tiny pink shrimp are usually served raw or lightly grilled and can be found in various dishes.

Must-Try!

Shimizu Fish

Freshly caught fish from the local waters, often served as sashimi or in a rice bowl.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Shimizu Fish Market

A bustling market where you can sample a variety of fresh seafood, including sushi, sashimi, and grilled fish.

Climate Guide

Weather

Shimizu experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are mild, with average temperatures around 8°C (46°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, making these seasons ideal for travel.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always greet with a bow and use polite language, especially when entering shops or restaurants.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove shoes when entering homes, traditional inns, and some restaurants.

Quiet in Public Transport

Keep conversations quiet and refrain from talking on your phone while using public transportation.

Safety Guide

Safety

Shimizu is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, it is always wise to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies. Natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons can occur, so familiarize yourself with local safety protocols.

Tipping in Shimizu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not common in Japan and can even be considered rude. Exceptional service is expected without extra reward.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but cash is preferred at smaller establishments. ATMs that accept foreign cards are available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy cherry blossoms in full bloom, particularly around parks and waterfront areas. The weather is mild and pleasant.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather, perfect for beach activities. Be prepared for occasional typhoons.

Autumn

Witness beautiful fall foliage, especially in parks and gardens. The weather becomes cooler and more comfortable.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snowfall in the surrounding mountains, ideal for those who enjoy winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Shimizu at Night

Shimizu features a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous izakayas, bars, and karaoke joints. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a perfect place to socialize and unwind after a day of exploring. Many establishments offer local sake and shochu, providing a taste of Japanese spirits. Live music and entertainment can often be found in the larger bars and clubs.

Hiking in Shimizu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kuno Mountain

A popular hiking spot offering trails of varying difficulties and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Yoshida Trail

This trail leads up Mount Fuji, providing stunning panoramic views for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Shimizu by plane.

Shizuoka Airport

Located about 30 kilometers from Shimizu, Shizuoka Airport offers both domestic and limited international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Shimizu is a walkable city, especially around the downtown area and tourist attractions. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many popular sites are within walking distance of each other. However, public transport is available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population primarily consists of Japanese individuals, with a rich blend of traditional and modern lifestyles.

Tourists

Shimizu attracts both domestic and international tourists looking to explore its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is extremely popular in Japan, and local teams often have enthusiastic support.

Soccer

Soccer is also widely enjoyed, with local clubs competing at various levels.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Shimizu can be moderate to heavy during peak hours, particularly near shopping areas and schools. Public transportation, including trains and buses, is efficient and affordable, making it easy to navigate the city without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Shimizu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is a staple in Shimizu, many restaurants offer vegetarian options, including vegetable tempura and soba noodles.

Gluten-Free

Finding gluten-free options can be challenging, but many rice-based dishes are available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Shimizu is of high quality, with hospitals and clinics equipped to handle both emergency and routine medical care. Most healthcare providers speak some English, and travelers are recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are widely available for purchasing over-the-counter medications.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide