Shizuoka Japan 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Shizuoka, Japan

Shizuoka is a beautiful prefecture located on the eastern coast of Honshu, Japan’s main island. Known for its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and delicious local cuisine, Shizuoka is an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

Day 1: Arrival in Shimizu and Exploring the Port City

  • Morning: Arrive at Shimizu Station () and take a short walk to the nearby Shimizu Harbor (). Enjoy the fresh seafood market and try some local specialties like sushi or grilled squid.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Shimizu S-Pulse Dream Plaza (), a multipurpose complex featuring shops, restaurants, and an observation deck with great views of Mt. Fuji.
  • Evening: Check-in at Hotel Route-Inn Shimizu () and enjoy dinner at nearby Kawatoyo Honten (), serving delicious local dishes like tori-ten (chicken tempura).

Day 2: Mt. Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes Region

  • Morning: Take a bus or taxi to Subashiri 5th Station (), the highest point that can be reached by public transportation on Mt. Fuji. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Afternoon: Visit Lake Kawaguchi () and take a stroll along its scenic shores. Don’t miss the stunning views of Mt. Fuji from Oishi Park ().
  • Evening: Stay overnight at Hotel Mifujien (), offering comfortable rooms and a relaxing hot spring bath.

Day 3: Exploring the Izu Peninsula

  • Morning: Take a train to Atami Station () and transfer to the Izu Kyuko Line, which runs along the scenic coastline. Get off at Kawazu Station () and visit the nearby Kawazu Sakura-e () for beautiful cherry blossom views (seasonal).
  • Afternoon: Soak in the hot springs at Yunessun (), a unique hot spring resort featuring wine, coffee, and green tea baths.
  • Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood dinner at Kawatoyo Honten () in Shimizu.

Day 4: Hamamatsu and Lake Hamana

  • Morning: Take a train to Hamamatsu Station () and visit the Hamamatsu Castle (), a well-preserved feudal-era castle.
  • Afternoon: Explore the scenic Lake Hamana () and take a stroll along its shores. Don’t miss the beautiful views of Mt. Fuji from the lake’s southern shore.
  • Evening: Stay overnight at Hotel Kokonoe (), offering comfortable rooms and a relaxing hot spring bath.

Day 5: The Japanese Alps

  • Morning: Take a train to Kofu Station () and transfer to the Minobu Line, which runs through the scenic Japanese Alps. Get off at Minobu Station () and visit the nearby Minobu Shrine ().
  • Afternoon: Hike in the beautiful mountains of the Japanese Alps, offering stunning views of surrounding peaks.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Kofu, serving delicious regional specialties like houtou (hot pot dish).

Day 6: Shizuoka City and Its Cultural Attractions

  • Morning: Take a train to Shizuoka Station () and visit the Shizuoka Sengen Shrine (), a historic shrine dedicated to the sun goddess.
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby Tokaido Hiroshige Museum of Art (), featuring beautiful ukiyo-e woodblock prints by Hiroshige.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya (gastropub) in Shizuoka City, serving delicious regional specialties like wasabi-flavored dishes.

Day 7: Departure from Shizuoka

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring the city.
  • Afternoon: Take a train back to Tokyo Station () or continue your journey to other destinations in Japan.

Things to Know

  • Shizuoka is known for its green tea plantations, so be sure to try some local tea during your trip.
  • The prefecture has a rich cultural heritage, with many festivals and events taking place throughout the year.
  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions, especially when visiting Mt. Fuji or hiking in the Japanese Alps.

Transportation

  • Shizuoka is easily accessible by train from Tokyo Station () using the Tokaido Shinkansen Line.
  • Local trains and buses connect major cities and attractions within the prefecture.
  • Renting a car may be convenient for exploring rural areas, but public transportation is generally reliable and efficient.

Tips

  • Try to avoid traveling during peak seasons (e.g., cherry blossom season) when possible, as popular spots can get very crowded.
  • Learn some basic Japanese phrases to help you navigate the region more smoothly.
  • Don’t forget to try some local specialties like wasabi-flavored ice cream or green tea soft-serve ice cream!

Accommodation

  • Hotel Route-Inn Shimizu (): Conveniently located near Shimizu Station, offering comfortable rooms and a relaxing hot spring bath.
  • Hotel Mifujien (): Situated near Lake Kawaguchi, featuring stunning views of Mt. Fuji and a relaxing hot spring bath.
  • Hotel Kokonoe (): Located in Hamamatsu City, offering comfortable rooms and a relaxing hot spring bath.

Dining

  • Kawatoyo Honten (): Serving delicious local dishes like tori-ten (chicken tempura) and fresh seafood in Shimizu.
  • Yunessun (): Unique hot spring resort featuring wine, coffee, and green tea baths, as well as a restaurant serving healthy cuisine.
  • Local izakaya (gastropubs): Enjoy regional specialties like wasabi-flavored dishes at one of the many local izakayas in Shizuoka City.

Enjoy your trip to Shizuoka, Japan!