The 16 things to do in Shizuoka

Want nature and softness at only one hour from Tokyo? Visit the quiet hill and discover the 16 things to do in Shizuoka.

Located on the Japanese island of Honshu, halfway between Tokyo and Kyoto, the city of Shizuoka is mainly known for its beautiful view of Mount Fuji and its green tea production, appreciated worldwide. With its seven hundred and sixteen thousand inhabitants, Shizuoka is also one of Japan's major economic centres.

The city that saw Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the shogunal system, is now one of the must-sees of the rising sun Empire. Every year, the Shizuoka attracts many visitors, who come to enjoy its mountains, the peaceful ocean, a rich cultural heritage and a legendary serenity.

Luxuriant nature, waterfalls famous all over the world, sumptuous temples and beautiful beaches, you will not miss places to discover in the city of Shizuoka.

Need help organizing your stay? Here is the list of the 16 things to do in Shizuoka.

1. The temple and sanctuary of Kunōzan Tōshō-gū

Start your visit to the city by one of the must-see visits to Shizuoka: the discovery of the luxurious temple and sanctuary Kunōzan Tōshō-gū . Located in the Suruga-ku district, it is one of the oldest shinto shrines in the country. In the cemetery is the tomb of Tokugawa Ieyasu, which was his first place of burial before being moved to the shrine of Nikko.

It should be noted that the shrine of Kunōzan Tōshō-gū is today classified as "Important Cultural Good" in Japan. There is also a small museum that houses more than two thousand weapons and ancient documents from Tokugawa Generals. To get there, take the cable car and admire the spectacular Byobudani cliffs.

2. Local strawberries

From the Kunōzan Tōshō-gū sanctuary you can see strawberry greenhouses, located along the coastal road ( Route 150, also known as the Ichigo-kaigan-dôri road). For an hour you can cook and enjoy one of Shizuoka’s specialties on site. If you want to take it away, take a tour in the small shop of the plantation.

3. The Castle and Sunpu Park

Come and discover the remains of the Sunpu castle , built by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1585, with its doves and tower. In the park there are many cherry trees that, at the beginning of spring, color the landscape in pale pink. A wonder for the eyes and the assurance of making beautiful pictures.

4. Shimizu Fish Market

To taste absolutely delicious sushi, take the direction of Shimuzu market , former port attached to the town of Shizuoka since 2003.

Although less known than Tsukiji’s in Tokyo, the Shimuzu market has nothing to envy it. Don’t hesitate to taste the specialties offered by the wineries, and to treat you with freshly peached tunas, soles or oysters.

5. Shiraito and Otodome Falls

During your stay in Shizuoka, take the time to admire the legendary falls of Shiraito and Otodome an indispensable to see in Shizuoka. High, twenty-five metres respectively, they are fed by the pure waters of Mount Fuji.

In the summer, you can refresh yourself in translucent waters and enjoy the surroundings, which are full of preserved places.

6. Green tea fields

If you are a tea lover, or if you just want to know more about this drink with multiple virtues, come to discover tea plantations in the Shizuoka region. On the hillside, these produce more than forty percent of Japanese tea. Visit a plantation, enjoy some cups of this delicious drink in a tea house, and go with some tea boxes in your luggage. A gift that will undoubtedly please your loved ones!

7. Mount Fuji

Who never heard of Mount Fuji? From the small hills of Nihondaira, three hundred meters high, you will enjoy an ideal view of this emblem of Japan, in a beautiful environment, classified as Natural National Park.

8. The beach of Miho

Are you wondering what to do to Shizuoka with your family? Why not take the direction of the sumptuous beach of Miho, located in Suruga Bay, to picnic and relax. With pine trees, it stretches over six kilometers and offers an incredible view of Mount Fuji.

Classified at Unesco World Heritage, Miho Beach and Sacred Mountain inspired many Japanese artists, including the famous master Katsushika Hokusai .

9. Suruga Bay

During the crossing of one of the most beautiful bays in the world, you will enjoy a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji and the beach of Miho. Your boat will be on the port of Shimizu and you will land, seventy minutes later, in that of Nishi-Izu Toi.

10. The archaeological site of Toro

For art and history lovers, the Toro archaeological park is one of the must-see visits to Shizuoka. Located in the district of Suruga-ku, the site, discovered in 1943, the date of the end of the Yayoi era, in the 1st century after Jesus Christ. You will also be able to visit a pretty museum, where traditional paints are displayed in the jar, made by the famous Keisuke Serizawa.

11. The Modern Art Museum of Shizuoka

Located in the highest tower of the city, the Aoi Tower, the Museum of Modern Art was inaugurated in 2015 and offers a futuristic and relaxing architecture. From the art dating from the Edo period to a Star Wars exhibition, to a retrospective Modigliani, the collections and exhibitions offered are extremely varied and will delight all audiences.

12. The Ecopa Stadium of Shizuoka

Are you a sports fan? Take direction Ecopa stage and its retractable roof, located in the center of the Ogasayam sports park, on a hill of Shizuoka.

13. The station district

Around the station, there are a large number of restaurants, bars, cafés and shops. Sengen Dori Street and its tori , is to be covered absolutely. It is the ideal neighborhood to eat on the thumb, taste some local specialties, and fill its souvenir suitcases.

14. Shizuhatayama Park

It's beautiful and you want to walk with family or friends? Take direction Shizuhatayama Park , built on a hill of Shizuoka. The view of the city is magnificent and in the spring you will enjoy the many cherry trees and shinto shrines, including the Shizuoka Sengen.

15. Mariko

If you still have a bit of time, take the bus to Shizuoka Station, to get to Mariko village, just twenty-five minutes’ drive. This village has preserved the peaceful atmosphere of the Edo era, and you can enjoy one of the specialties of the region, the Tororo-jiru, a delicious yam soup. Don’t miss the visit of the Togeppo-Saiokuji temple, with its beautiful traditional garden and its bamboo jars, to go back to the time of Edo.

16. The waves

Many onsens are in Shizuoka and its region. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the hot waters of the thermal springs. Some even offer sumptuous views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding forest. One of the most important things to do in Shizuoka!

How to go to Shizuoka?

The simplest way to go to Shizuoka will be at first time take the plane to Tokyo .

To reach Tokyo, several companies offer direct flights from Paris. You will reach the Japanese capital in about 12 hours. A return ticket in the economic class will return to more than 1000€. To get the best rates and avoid overbooking, think to book your tickets in advance and compare prices on a standard flight comparison Ulysses .

Once in Tokyo, borrow it Shinkansen Tokaido Head to Shizuoka. This high-speed train, with futuristic design, has the reputation of being extremely punctual.

Where to stay in Shizuoka?

Like all over Japan, rates to stay in Shizuoka are rather high. The train station district can be a convenient option, close to the city's busy neighbourhoods and transportation. Shimizu also offers a lot of opportunities along Segura Bay and the second city centre of Shizuoka. You will undoubtedly find the accommodation that suits you, at the best price, on this Compare hotels .

How do you like Shizuoka? Share your impressions and good plans in comment !