Things To Do
in Shizuoka
Shizuoka is a picturesque coastal city located in central Japan, known for its stunning views of Mt. Fuji and the Suruga Bay. The city is famous for its green tea plantations, producing some of the highest quality tea in Japan. Shizuoka offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions, such as historic temples and shrines alongside modern shopping centers and restaurants.
With its mild climate and beautiful natural scenery, Shizuoka is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.
- "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: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Mount Fuji. Enjoy the stunning views and take plenty of photos at the five lakes surrounding it.
Head to the Shizuoka Sengen Shrine, a beautiful and historic site. Explore the serene gardens and learn about its cultural significance.
Conclude your day with a relaxing dinner at a local izakaya. Savor traditional Japanese dishes while mingling with locals.
Visit the breathtaking Tea Fields in Shizuoka and participate in a tea-picking experience. Discover the different varieties of green tea and enjoy a fresh cup.
Spend time at Nihondaira, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and Mount Fuji. Walk along the trails and immerse yourself in nature's beauty.
Dine at a seaside restaurant and indulge in fresh seafood delicacies. Relish the sunset views over the Pacific Ocean.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and coastline.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and traditional festivals.
- Famous for green tea production and local cuisine, including sushi and seafood.
- Mild climate with a relatively low risk of natural disasters compared to other regions in Japan.
- Well-connected transportation system with easy access to Tokyo and other major cities.
- Heavy rainfall, particularly during the typhoon season.
- High cost of living, especially in urban areas.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities like Tokyo.
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
- Traffic congestion in major urban areas can be a challenge.
Best Activities in Shizuoka
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore scenic trails and enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscapes.
Experience great waves and a beautiful coastline for surfing enthusiasts.
Enjoy cycling through picturesque coastal roads and lush greenery of the Izu Peninsula.
Take a leisurely hike and enjoy the panoramic views of Shizuoka City and Suruga Bay from the plateau.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shizuoka with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shizuoka
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscape
Known for its picturesque pine grove and views of Mount Fuji across Suruga Bay
A beautiful, 20-meter tall waterfall surrounded by nature
Food in Shizuoka
Shizuoka Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These tiny, flavorful shrimp are a local specialty and can be savored in a variety of dishes, including sakura ebi rice bowls and tempura. Head to Suruga Bay to sample the freshest Sakura Ebi dishes at local seafood stalls.
Must-Try!
Made with locally grown green tea leaves, this soba offers a unique earthy flavor. Visit traditional soba restaurants in the foothills of Mt. Fuji for an authentic taste of this regional delight.
Grilled eel over rice, glazed with a sweet soy-based sauce, is a Shizuoka favorite. Savor this delectable dish at renowned unagi restaurants in Hamamatsu.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Shizuoka better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience the bustling atmosphere of this market, where you can find a wide selection of fresh seafood, including sashimi, sushi, and grilled fish. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the freshest catches at the market's various food stalls.
Explore this scenic pedestrian bridge, offering an array of street food stalls featuring local specialties such as takoyaki, yakitori, and matcha-flavored desserts. The stunning views of Mount Fuji add to the experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
One of the most common ways to show respect in Japan is by bowing. In Shizuoka, it's important to bow when greeting someone or showing gratitude.
In many places in Shizuoka, including homes, traditional ryokan inns, and some restaurants, it's customary to remove shoes before entering to show respect for the space.
In public spaces such as trains, buses, and restaurants, it's important to maintain a quiet and polite demeanor to show consideration for others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Shizuoka with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Shizuoka
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Shizuoka. It is generally not expected or accepted, and may even be seen as rude in certain situations. Good service is considered part of the job, and customers express their gratitude through polite words and gestures rather than monetary tips.
In Shizuoka, as in the rest of Japan, cash is the most commonly used form of payment. Credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in larger establishments and tourist areas. Mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Suica are also gaining popularity. It's important to have enough cash on hand when visiting smaller businesses or more traditional establishments, as they may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Shizuoka.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossoms, mild weather, and tea picking season.
Expect hot and humid weather, perfect for beach activities and summer festivals.
Ideal for enjoying fall foliage, mild temperatures, and attending harvest festivals.
Great for hot springs, enjoying winter illuminations, and experiencing traditional New Year celebrations.
Shizuoka at Night
Hiking in Shizuoka
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The iconic symbol of Japan, Mount Fuji offers challenging hikes with breathtaking views from the summit. The best climbing season is from early July to early September.
This national park features a variety of trails through scenic mountains, lush forests, and offers stunning views over the Southern Alps.
A beautiful trail that connects several shrines in Shizuoka, offering a mix of cultural experiences and nature walks.
Also known as the Sea of Trees, this forest lies at the base of Mount Fuji and features well-marked trails through a unique lava landscape.
Famous for its hot springs and views of Mount Fuji, Hakone also provides a variety of hiking trails suitable for different skill levels.
The Izu Peninsula features coastal trails with stunning ocean views, hot springs, and lush green hills, making it a popular hiking destination.
One of the primary routes to the summit of Mount Fuji, offering panoramic views and varying levels of hiking terrain.
This trail offers a scenic route through the hills of Izu, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Shizuoka through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Shizuoka by plane.
Located in Narita, Chiba Prefecture, approximately 400 km from Shizuoka, Narita International Airport is one of Japan's main international airports, serving as a major gateway into the country.
Located in Tokyo, Haneda Airport is about 170 km away from Shizuoka. It is one of the two primary airports serving the Greater Tokyo Area and offers a significant number of international flights.
Situated on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, Kansai International Airport is approximately 210 km from Shizuoka. It serves as a major international airport for the Kansai region, including Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe.
Located on an artificial island in Ise Bay, near Nagoya, Chubu Centrair International Airport is approximately 150 km from Shizuoka and serves as a vital hub for international flights in the Chubu region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Shizuoka, comprising the majority of the population.
A significant minority group, with historical ties dating back to the early 20th century.
Another minority group in Shizuoka, including recent immigrants and long-term residents.
Mostly of Japanese descent, this group comprises many residents who have returned to Japan.
A growing community in Shizuoka, comprising migrant workers and families.
Includes various smaller groups from countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, and Nepal.
Includes individuals from the United States, Canada, and European countries living in Shizuoka.
The Soul of Shizuoka
Discover the essence of Shizuoka through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Shizuoka, known for its passionate fans and successful local teams, with many schools and universities participating in leagues.
Soccer enjoys a strong following in Shizuoka, particularly with the presence of professional teams and local youth clubs fostering talent.
Tennis is a widely played sport in Shizuoka, with numerous courts and clubs available for both recreational and competitive play.
Basketball is popular at schools and community levels, with many local leagues and events encouraging participation.
Cycling is a favored activity with scenic routes, and Shizuoka hosts various cycling events and competitions due to its favorable terrain.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and kendo, are widely practiced in Shizuoka, supported by many dojos and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shizuoka.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood, several restaurants in Shizuoka offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for establishments that highlight tofu, seasonal vegetables, and rice-based meals.
Though it may be a bit challenging, some restaurants in Shizuoka can accommodate gluten-free dietary needs. Focus on dishes like sashimi, grilled meats, and rice-based dishes, and communicate your dietary requirements clearly to the staff.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Shizuoka with these cultural adventures.
