Shizuoka, Japan-6-day-itinerary

Shizuoka 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Shimizu Port

  • Morning: Arrive at Shimizu Station () via bullet train (Shinkansen) from Tokyo or Osaka. Take a short taxi ride to Shimizu Port (), a charming harbor town with a rich history.
  • Lunch: Try some fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants in the port area, such as Kaisen-dokoro Saito for delicious sushi and sashimi.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Shimizu Port Museum () to learn about the town’s history and maritime culture. Take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the views of Mt. Fuji in the distance.
  • Evening: Stay overnight at Hotel Shimizu or similar, located near the port.

Day 2: Tea Plantations and Scenic Views

  • Morning: Take a local bus (about 30 minutes) to the Shizuoka Tea Plantation (), Japan’s largest tea-producing region. Learn about tea production and enjoy the scenic views of rolling green hills.
  • Lunch: Try some tea-infused cuisine at Tea House Kanbayashi, such as tea-scented chicken or tea-flavored ice cream.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Kunozan Toshogu Shrine (), a beautiful Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirit of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate.
  • Evening: Return to Shimizu Port and enjoy dinner at Yakiniku Jumbo Han no Daidokoro Bettei, a popular yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) restaurant.

Day 3: Mt. Fuji and Subashiri 5th Station

  • Morning: Take a bus (about 1 hour) to the Subashiri 5th Station (), a great spot for hiking and taking in breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch with a view at one of the many observation decks.
  • Afternoon: Hike around the 5th station or take a guided tour (optional).
  • Evening: Return to Shimizu Port and stay overnight.

Day 4: Hamamatsu and the Pacific Coast

  • Morning: Take a train (about 1.5 hours) to Hamamatsu (), a city located on the Pacific coast.
  • Lunch: Try some fresh seafood at Hamamatsu Fish Market, such as grilled squid or seafood rice bowls.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Hamamatsu Castle (), a well-preserved castle with beautiful gardens and a museum.
  • Evening: Stay overnight at Hotel Concorde Hamamatsu or similar, located near the train station.

Day 5: Izu Peninsula and Hot Springs

  • Morning: Take a bus (about 2 hours) to the Izu Peninsula (), known for its hot springs, scenic coastal views, and beautiful beaches.
  • Lunch: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants in the area, such as Izu Ichinoji.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Dogashima Onsen (), a hot spring resort town with stunning coastal views. Soak in an onsen (hot spring) at one of the many ryokans (Japanese inns) or public bathhouses.
  • Evening: Stay overnight at a ryokan, such as Yagyu no Yado, and enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner.

Day 6: Return to Tokyo or Osaka

  • Morning: Take a bus (about 2 hours) back to Shimizu Station and then transfer to the Shinkansen bullet train to return to Tokyo or Osaka.

Things to Know

  • Shizuoka Prefecture is known for its green tea, so be sure to try some while you’re there!
  • The best time to visit Shizuoka is in spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November), when the weather is mild and comfortable.
  • Many attractions have English signage and audio guides, but it’s still a good idea to learn some basic Japanese phrases to show respect and appreciation for the culture.

Transportation

  • The most convenient way to get around Shizuoka is by train or bus. You can use a Japan Rail Pass (if you plan to travel extensively) or purchase individual tickets.
  • Taxis are also available, but may not have English-speaking drivers.

Tips

  • Be sure to try some local specialties, such as wasabi (Japanese horseradish), which is grown in the Shizuoka region.
  • Respect Japanese customs and traditions, especially when visiting shrines or temples.
  • Pack comfortable walking shoes and layers for changing weather conditions.

Other Things of Interest

  • Shizuoka Sengen Park (): A beautiful park with gardens, walking trails, and a shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu.
  • Miho no Matsubara (): A scenic pine forest along the coast, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
  • Gotemba Onsen (): Another hot spring resort town in the Izu Peninsula, known for its natural beauty and relaxation.