Shizuoka, the capital of Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, is a tea town located between Tokyo and Nagoya, with a clear and beautiful view of Mount Fuji. It is nicknamed the tea city because of the vast tea plantations that are spread throughout the city, as well as the people who maintain a traditional tea culture.
In addition to the soothing aroma of tea, Shizuoka also offers interesting attractions, such as the Nihondaira Plateau, where a panoramic view of Mount Fuji can be seen. The city's historical sights are evident in places like Sunpu Castle. You can also enjoy the sunrise that appears behind Mount Fuji from the coast.
Another great place to visit in Shizuoka City is the Miho no Matsubara, a coastal area near the city with 3,000 pine trees and the stunning view of of Mount Fuji across Suruga Bay. Here, you can take leisurely strolls along the sandy beach, marvel at the “Three Pine Trees of Miho”, or explore the Miho Pine Grove.
Shizuoka City also offers a fun culinary experience for foodies. The city has fresh seafood markets and local specialties like Shizuoka oden and unagi pie pastries.
The JR Railways system in Shizuoka is a well-connected network linking major attractions. Efficient and punctual, JR trains provide a convenient mode of transport for tourists. Operating hours typically span from early morning to late evening, ensuring accessibility throughout the day. Key JR stations like Shizuoka Station serve as gateways to the city's cultural and natural wonders, including the iconic Nihondaira Plateau and historic landmarks.
Located at the foot of Mount Fuji, Shizuoka City has many interesting natural attractions. However, the charm of history, culture, and art is also worth a visit.
One of them is Kunozan Toshugu which is a Shinto shrine located on Mount Kunozan. From here you can see a beautiful view of the city from a height. Not far from there, by taking the ropeway for 700 JPY, you can visit the Nihondaira Yume Terrace, a hilltop observation deck with views of Suruga Bay & Mount Fuji, as well as exhibitions. If you have kids with you and want to see animals up close, you can visit Nihondaira Zoo.
Miho no Matsuabara, a beautiful pine forest along the coast, can be a place to enjoy a quiet vacation in nature. Shizuoka Sengen Shrine is another cultural attraction, inviting visitors to explore the shrine and witness traditional ceremonies.
Shizuoka is well known for its significant role in tea production, with extensive plantations that play an important role in Japanese tea culture. In addition, the city's fame also extends to its stunning views of Mount Fuji, an iconic symbol of Japan. From various viewpoints within the city, you can see this majestic mountain, which is adorned with a glittering crown of snow.
Located on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, Shizuoka offers a unique opportunity to admire both sunrises - the sunrise from the shore that casts its golden glow into the waters, and the sunrise from behind Mount Fuji, creating a captivating blend of light and shadow. This combination of tea heritage and scenic beauty makes Shizuoka a diverse destination that entices visitors with its rich culture and natural beauty.
Absolutely! Shizuoka City offers stunning views of Mount Fuji, especially from higher altitudes such as the Nihondaira Plateau, which provides a beautiful backdrop for the cityscape. You can also see Mount Fuji from Miho Beach, offering a natural view between the heights and the vast blue sea.
To enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Shizuoka, consider planning your visit during the cool spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is quite mild, creating ideal conditions for exploration and outdoor activities. In particular, spring brings a burst of vibrant colors as cherry blossoms bloom across the city, adding an extra layer of beauty to the landscape.
Furthermore, if you are interested in the process of tea farming, spring is also the tea harvest season in Shizuoka, offering a unique opportunity to witness and participate in the centuries-old tradition of tea picking amidst beautiful tea plantations.
On the other hand, autumn drapes Shizuoka in warm colors, making it a pleasant time to enjoy yourself with a warm cup of tea. Whether you are admiring Mount Fuji from the Nihondaira Plateau or exploring historical sites, these seasons provide an interesting backdrop for a memorable visit and enrich your experience in Shizuoka.
Shizuoka is accessible from Tokyo by train, with the Shinkansen offering a fast and comfortable journey. It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours with the JR Tokaido Shinkansen and costs about JPY 6,000. You can also take the regular train and it takes about 3 hours and costs JPY 3,410. For tourists, you can use the JR Rail Pass for a budget vacation! If you want to use a bus to enjoy the scenery on the way, you can use the highway bus for JPY 3,000 with a journey time of 3 hours.
Get to Know Shizuoka-shi
Travel Tips for Shizuoka-shi
Explore Shizuoka-shi