Key Takeaways:
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Shizuoka blends ocean views, mountain hikes, and rich tea culture into a destination perfect for all seasons.
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From Mt. Fuji’s majestic backdrop to peaceful temples and coastal adventures, the city offers a balance of nature and tradition.
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Whether you’re after outdoor escapes or cultural immersion, Shizuoka offers unique year-round experiences for travelers of all kinds.
Shizuoka, a coastal city in central Japan, is most famous for offering postcard-perfect views of Mount Fuji, lush tea plantations, and easygoing vibes that contrast the bustle of Tokyo. Once an important region in the Tokugawa shogunate, it has long held significance in Japanese culture and politics. Today, Shizuoka draws visitors for its scenic charm, outdoor recreation, and deep-rooted traditions in tea and craftsmanship. Whether you’re hiking volcanic trails, relaxing in hot springs, or exploring samurai history, there’s something peaceful and refreshing about life in Shizuoka—and it’s worth experiencing year-round.
Table of Contents
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Hike the Trails Around Nihondaira Plateau
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Explore Kunozan Toshogu Shrine
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Wander the Miho no Matsubara Pine Grove
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Sample Fresh Sushi at Shimizu Fish Market
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Ride the Oigawa Railway Through Tea Country
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Visit the Sumpu Castle Park
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Attend the Shizuoka Festival in Spring
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Relax at a Traditional Onsen in the Area
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Discover Local Art at the Shizuoka City Tokaido Hiroshige Museum
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Take a Day Trip to Fujinomiya for Fuji Views and Nature
1. Hike the Trails Around Nihondaira Plateau
Nihondaira Plateau offers one of the best panoramic views in Shizuoka, especially of Mount Fuji and Suruga Bay on clear days. The area is famous for its scenic walking trails lined with cherry blossoms in spring and golden foliage in autumn. Hiking routes are beginner-friendly and well-marked, making it accessible for casual explorers and families alike. Benches and observation points along the way invite visitors to pause and take in the sweeping landscapes.
At the top of the plateau sits the Nihondaira Yume Terrace, a modern observation deck with striking views and informational exhibits. You can also take the ropeway from here to the historic Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, combining both nature and heritage in one trip. Whether you hike or ride, Nihondaira is an ideal year-round destination to enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty of Shizuoka.
2. Explore Kunozan Toshogu Shrine
Kunozan Toshogu Shrine is a beautifully preserved resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period. Accessible via a scenic ropeway or a 1,000-step staircase through the forest, this shrine is both a spiritual and physical journey. The complex is decorated in vivid reds and golds, with intricate carvings and a tranquil mountain setting that makes the whole area feel sacred. Walking through the grounds, you’ll get a deep sense of Japan’s spiritual and historical roots.
In addition to the shrine itself, there’s a small museum showcasing armor, calligraphy, and personal belongings of Tokugawa Ieyasu. The site is peaceful year-round and especially breathtaking during the cherry blossom season. It’s a place where history comes alive, not just in the exhibits, but in the feeling that you’ve stepped back into the time of the samurai.
3. Wander the Miho no Matsubara Pine Grove
Miho no Matsubara is a stunning coastal stretch lined with over 30,000 pine trees and black volcanic sand, offering dramatic views of Mount Fuji across Suruga Bay. This picturesque grove is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site tied to Mount Fuji’s cultural and natural significance. Visitors come to walk the quiet paths, snap photos of Fuji’s reflection, and breathe in the ocean air. The area is also steeped in folklore, including the famous legend of the celestial maiden’s robe.
There’s a nearby museum that explains the mythology, along with rest areas and bike rentals if you want to explore at a slower pace. It’s a favorite spot for picnics, seaside strolls, and even nighttime moon-gazing when the weather is clear. No matter the season, Miho no Matsubara is a peaceful place that captures Shizuoka’s natural beauty at its finest.
4. Sample Fresh Sushi at Shimizu Fish Market
Shimizu Port is known for having some of the freshest seafood in Japan, and the Shimizu Fish Market is the perfect place to taste it. The market is lively every morning, filled with local fishermen, vendors, and restaurants offering sushi, grilled seafood, and regional specialties like sakura shrimp. It’s a feast for the senses where you can see fish being sliced to order and sample traditional Japanese dishes at low prices.
The market also includes a sushi museum, local souvenir shops, and harbor cruises for those who want to explore beyond the stalls. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just curious about Japan’s culinary culture, this is a must-do in Shizuoka. Morning visits are best for the freshest catch, but you’ll find something tasty here any day of the week.
5. Ride the Oigawa Railway Through Tea Country
The Oigawa Railway offers a nostalgic journey through scenic countryside, tea fields, and river valleys aboard vintage steam or diesel locomotives. This old-fashioned train ride starts in Kanaya and winds its way through quiet villages, bridges, and tunnels, offering a slow, scenic journey unlike anything else in the region. Along the way, you’ll pass by verdant tea plantations and catch glimpses of Mount Fuji in the distance.
The train itself is a destination, with retro interiors, friendly conductors, and windows that open for photos and fresh air. Stops along the route offer access to hiking paths, hot springs, and local sweets unique to the area. It’s a charming, family-friendly experience that turns transportation into a relaxing adventure, especially during spring blossoms or fall foliage.
6. Visit the Sumpu Castle Park
Sumpu Castle Park is a historical site in the heart of Shizuoka, once home to Tokugawa Ieyasu during his retirement years. Although much of the original castle no longer stands, the reconstructed turrets and beautiful moats offer a fascinating look into Japan’s feudal era. The park grounds are spacious, filled with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. It’s a peaceful place for both history buffs and casual strollers.
The onsite museum and small samurai exhibit provide extra depth to your visit, showing what daily life was like during the Tokugawa era. Children can enjoy dressing up in period costumes or participating in seasonal events. With shaded benches, koi ponds, and wide walking paths, Sumpu Castle Park is a year-round favorite for locals and visitors alike. It blends education, nature, and relaxation in a uniquely Japanese way.
7. Attend the Shizuoka Festival in Spring
Held every April, the Shizuoka Festival is one of the city’s most lively and traditional events, celebrating the cherry blossom season with samurai parades, tea ceremonies, and open-air performances. The highlight of the festival is the historical reenactment of Tokugawa Ieyasu’s procession, complete with costumed warriors and musicians. Streets are lit up at night with lanterns, and food stalls serve local specialties, making it a treat for all senses.
Even if you miss the exact dates, the spirit of the festival lingers with smaller events, performances, and exhibitions throughout spring. Parks like Sumpu Castle and Nihondaira come alive with cherry blossom picnics and cultural showcases. It’s a great opportunity to experience community life in Shizuoka while enjoying traditional dress, arts, and entertainment.
8. Relax at a Traditional Onsen in the Area
No trip to Japan is complete without a soak in an onsen, and Shizuoka has several traditional hot spring resorts to choose from. Nearby areas like Shuzenji and Kawane offer serene ryokan inns with beautiful open-air baths, often overlooking mountains or rivers. The mineral-rich waters are believed to have healing properties, making them popular year-round—especially in cooler months.
After a day of exploring, slipping into a warm onsen is the perfect way to unwind. Many onsen include traditional Japanese meals (kaiseki) and tatami rooms for a full cultural experience. Whether you book a night or just stop for a day-use bath, it adds a deeply relaxing, rejuvenating element to your visit.
9. Discover Local Art at the Shizuoka City Tokaido Hiroshige Museum
This modern museum celebrates the work of Utagawa Hiroshige, one of Japan’s most famous ukiyo-e (woodblock print) artists. Located along the historic Tokaido route in Yui, the museum showcases colorful prints depicting landscapes, travel scenes, and daily life from the Edo period. Visitors gain insight into the artistic heritage that shaped Japanese visual storytelling.
Interactive exhibits and seasonal displays make this museum engaging even for those new to the art form. There are also hands-on workshops where you can try traditional printmaking or calligraphy. It’s a peaceful and educational stop that offers a quiet counterbalance to the more bustling attractions in Shizuoka.
10. Take a Day Trip to Fujinomiya for Fuji Views and Nature
Located just under an hour from central Shizuoka, Fujinomiya offers unmatched views of Mount Fuji and a gateway to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The area is famous for the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, dedicated to the mountain’s spirit, and Shiraito Falls—a wide, misty cascade surrounded by lush forest. The peaceful setting and spiritual connection to Mt. Fuji make it a special place year-round.
Hiking trails, souvenir shops, and open-air food stalls offer something for everyone. The local yakisoba (fried noodles) is a must-try specialty, and the crisp mountain air adds to the refreshing atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking sacred sites or scenic nature walks, a day trip to Fujinomiya complements any Shizuoka itinerary beautifully.
What to do if you have kids?
Shizuoka is an ideal destination for families, offering a mix of outdoor adventures and educational experiences for kids. Spots like Nihondaira and the Oigawa Railway are great for curious minds, while Sumpu Castle Park offers open space to run and play. Onsen towns and museums often include kid-friendly activities, and many restaurants provide child-sized meals and seating. Whether hiking, exploring samurai stories, or tasting fresh seafood, children can engage with Shizuoka’s charm in hands-on, memorable ways.
Where can I find free events in Shizuoka Japan taking place this weekend?
To discover free events in Shizuoka happening this weekend, check out https://planmyweekend.ai. It’s your go-to tool for finding festivals, family-friendly performances, cultural events, and outdoor activities without needing to sift through nightlife listings. Whether you’re looking for a local market, art fair, or tea ceremony, this platform will help you plan a social and exciting weekend—at zero cost.
Final thoughts
Shizuoka is one of Japan’s most underrated gems, offering coastal beauty, sacred mountain views, deep historical roots, and rich cultural traditions. Its blend of nature and heritage makes it perfect for slow travel, whether you’re savoring tea in the countryside or watching cherry blossoms fall in a quiet shrine. Every season brings something new, from festivals and hikes to hot springs and ocean views. If you’re searching for a peaceful and enriching experience in Japan, Shizuoka delivers every time.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
