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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Hamamatsu sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled in the heart of Japan lies a city buzzing with vibrant culture and stunning scenery – Hamamatsu.
From the ancient temples gracing its streets to the modern technology filling its museums, Hamamatsu offers an endless array of experiences to captivate the senses.
Join us as we embark on a journey through this city, discovering the hidden gems and exciting adventures that await you at every turn.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Hamamatsu:
1. Hamamatsu Castle
Hamamatsu Castle is a historic castle located in Hamamatsu City, Japan that dates back to the 16th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the reconstructed castle tower which now features a museum with exhibits on the castle’s history. The castle grounds also include a beautiful Japanese garden and traditional tea house.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning views from the top of the castle tower, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding city and countryside.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during cherry blossom season for a stunning display of pink blooms throughout the castle grounds.
2. Hamamatsu Flower Park
Hamamatsu Flower Park is a stunning botanical garden located in Hamamatsu, Japan.
Spanning over 300,000 square meters, it features a vast collection of flowers and plants that is sure to leave nature enthusiasts spellbound.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through various themed gardens, including a rose garden, hydrangea garden, tulip garden, and a Japanese garden. The park also features a petting zoo, craft workshops, and a kids’ playground.
There are also several food stalls and restaurants serving delicious snacks and meals.
Don’t miss: A must-see attraction is the famous Flower Dome, a massive greenhouse that houses a stunning display of seasonal flowers and plants.
A ride on the park’s Ferris wheel offers a panoramic view of the entire garden.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Hamamatsu Flower Park is during the spring and summer months, as this is when the flowers are in full bloom.
It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long queues. Also, be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
3. Nakatajima Sand Dunes
Nakatajima Sand Dunes is a picturesque natural wonder located on the Pacific Coast of Hamamatsu in Shizuoka prefecture.
What to see or do: Take a refreshing hike through the vast and magnificent sand dunes admiring the panoramic views of the ocean and lush greenery in the backdrop.
Enjoy sunbathing or swimming in the crystal clear waters, to escape the summer heat.
Don’t miss: Witness the exquisite and breathtaking sunrise or sunset from the top of the dunes, a view that’s nothing less than a painting come to life!
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes that you won’t mind getting sand in.
4. Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments
The Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments is a museum dedicated to showcasing a collection of instruments from around the world.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore exhibits featuring over 1,300 musical instruments, including traditional Japanese instruments such as the shakuhachi and koto, as well as instruments from various parts of the world such as African drums, Indian sitars, and European pianos.
There are also interactive displays, where visitors can play some of the instruments on display.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the collection of over 300 saxophones, including a rare curved saxophone once owned by jazz legend Charlie Parker.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check the museum’s event schedule before visiting, as they hold regular concerts and workshops that showcase different types of music and instruments.
Headphones are provided at the museum for visitors to listen to audio guides in various languages.
5. Hamamatsu Fruit Park Tokinosumika
Hamamatsu Fruit Park Tokinosumika is a fruit-themed park located in Hamamatsu, Japan.
What to see or do: -Explore the various fruit gardens including the apple, peach, grape, and strawberry gardens.
Don’t miss: -The Fruit Museum, showcasing the history and cultivation of fruits in Japan and around the world.
Insider travel tips: – Visiting during the harvest season (spring and summer) offers the opportunity to pick and taste fresh fruits from the orchards.
6. Hamanako Garden Park
Hamanako Garden Park is a sprawling botanical garden and amusement park located in Hamamatsu, Japan.
What to see or do: The park boasts several themed gardens, featuring a wide array of plants and flowers from all around the world, including a rose garden, a Japanese garden, and a greenhouse filled with tropical plants.
Visitors can also enjoy various attractions, such as a Ferris wheel, a roller coaster, a water park, and mini-golf.
Don’t miss: The animal enclosures, which are home to various birds, monkeys, and other creatures, are a must-see. Another highlight is the sky tower, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit is in spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Be sure to check the park’s website for information on special events and seasonal attractions.
If you plan on visiting several times a year, it may be worth purchasing an annual pass, which provides access to all of the park’s attractions at a discounted rate.
7. Kanzan-ji Temple
Kanzan-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Hamamatsu, Japan.
What to see or do: The temple houses various cultural and religious treasures, including a beautifully crafted wooden statue of the goddess Kannon.
Visitors can participate in traditional tea ceremonies, explore the lush grounds and gardens, and enjoy scenic views of Lake Hamana from the observation deck.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the temple’s famous hydrangea garden, which comes alive with vibrant blooms during the rainy season from late May to early June.
Insider travel tips: For a unique experience, take a boat ride on Lake Hamana to reach the temple. It’s also worth visiting during the autumn season, when the leaves turn brilliant shades of red and orange.
If you can, try to attend one of the temple’s annual events, such as the Hydrangea Festival or the Summer Night Illumination.
8. Hamamatsu Municipal Zoo
Hamamatsu Municipal Zoo is a family-friendly zoo located in Hamamatsu, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can see a variety of animals including pandas, elephants, lions, giraffes, and more. The zoo also offers interactive experiences like feeding and petting some of the animals.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the zoo is the giant panda exhibit, where visitors can see the adorable animals up close and learn about their habitat and behavior.
Be sure to also catch the daily animal shows, featuring trained elephants and sea lions.
Insider travel tips: Plan to spend several hours at the zoo to fully explore all the exhibits and activities. Consider bringing your own food and drinks as the on-site options can be limited and expensive.
Additionally, try to visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and long lines.
9. Hamamatsu City Zoo
Hamamatsu City Zoo is a popular zoo located in Hamamatsu City, Japan.
What to see or do: The zoo is home to a variety of animals from all over the world, including elephants, giraffes, tigers, lions, and many more.
Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the park-like setting and observe the animals’ natural behaviors.
Don’t miss: The African Savannah exhibit with a spacious enclosure for giraffes, zebras, and ostriches is a must-see spot. Visitors can also enjoy watching the energetic and playful red pandas at the zoo.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit for a weekday to avoid weekend crowds.
10. Hamamatsu Municipal Science Museum
The Hamamatsu Municipal Science Museum is a science museum located in Hamamatsu City, Japan.
What to see or do: – The museum has various exhibits that showcase the wonders of science and technology, with a particular emphasis on optical and imaging technology.
Don’t miss: – The museum’s main attraction is the “Enshu Space Eye,” a giant telescope with a 7.6-meter diameter mirror that visitors can observe up close and even control remotely.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
11. Hamamatsu Municipal Planetarium
Hamamatsu Municipal Planetarium is a state-of-the-art planetarium located in Hamamatsu, Japan.
What to see or do: The planetarium features a large dome theater where visitors can watch stunning high-definition shows about the solar system and the cosmos.
The shows are presented in Japanese but English audio guides are available.
Don’t miss: Make sure to catch the planetarium’s signature show, “The Birth of the Universe,” which takes you on a journey through space and time to explore the origins of the universe.
Insider travel tips: – The planetarium is open every day except for Wednesdays and during the New Year’s holiday period.
12. Hamamatsu Castle Park
Hamamatsu Castle Park is a beautiful historical site located in Hamamatsu city, Japan.
The park is built around the remains of the Hamamatsu Castle and offers a picturesque spot for both locals and visitors.
What to see or do: The park offers a lot of things to see and do, including exploring the remains of the Hamamatsu Castle, relaxing by the lake while enjoying the beautiful scenery, and strolling around the garden.
The park is also famous for its Cherry Blossom festival in spring, where the trees are in full bloom and is a perfect spot for Hanami, which is a Japanese tradition of having a picnic under the cherry blossom trees.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the main attraction of the park, which is the remains of the Hamamatsu Castle.
The castle grounds offer a glimpse of the castle’s past, and the park’s diverse flora is sure to delight any nature-lover.
Insider travel tips: The park is beautiful year-round, but it’s best to visit during spring when the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom.
Make sure to bring a picnic basket and some drinks to enjoy Hanami, as the atmosphere is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
If you are interested in the city’s history, consider visiting the Hamamatsu City Museum, which is located near the park, to learn more about the city and its heritage.
13. Hamamatsu Municipal Art Museum
A contemporary art museum located in the heart of Hamamatsu city, Japan.
What to see or do: The Hamamatsu Municipal Art Museum features a wide variety of contemporary art exhibits, both from local and international artists. Visitors can explore the various exhibits, which showcase a diverse range of mediums including painting, sculpture, and photography.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the museum’s permanent collection, which includes works by important Japanese artists such as Yayoi Kusama and Yoko Ono.
Additionally, the museum often hosts special exhibitions featuring works by emerging artists.
Insider travel tips: The museum is conveniently located near Hamamatsu Station, so it’s easy to access using public transportation.
Additionally, there is a charming café on the museum’s ground floor where visitors can relax and grab a drink or bite to eat before or after their visit.
14. Hamamatsu Gakuin University Museum
Hamamatsu Gakuin University Museum is an educational institution and museum located in Hamamatsu, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s two floors filled with exhibits featuring ancient artifacts, artwork, ceramics, and other objects collected over the years.
The exhibits showcase Japanese art, culture, and history, and visitors can learn about the museum’s mission of preserving and sharing knowledge.
Don’t miss: One of the prominent exhibits at the Hamamatsu Gakuin University Museum is the collection of ancient Buddhist statues made of stone, bronze, and wood.
Visitors should also check out the replica of a traditional Japanese house and the exhibition of samurai armor and swords.
Insider travel tips: The museum offers guided tours upon request, which are available in English and Japanese. Visitors can also enjoy a cup of tea at the museum cafe, which overlooks the gardens.
The museum is closed on Mondays, and admission is free.