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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Shizuoka.
Enter the land of tea plantations and towering mountains, where the ocean breezes collide with the crisp air of the peaks.
Shizuoka offers a plethora of breathtaking sights and exhilarating experiences, from traversing the legendary Hakone Skyline to discovering the secrets of traditional Japanese tea-making.
Step into a world of natural wonders and cultural gems that will leave you spellbound, enchanted, and endlessly yearning for more.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Shizuoka:
1. Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is an iconic stratovolcano located on Honshu Island in Japan, standing at 3,776 meters tall.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb to the summit of Mount Fuji during the climbing season from July to September.
Alternatively, admire the beautiful views of the mountain from a distance, with many spots available, such as the Fuji Five Lakes or the Chureito Pagoda.
Don’t miss: The stunning sunrise from the summit is a highlight of any climb. Additionally, make sure to visit during the annual Fujisan Hongu Sengentaisha festival, where you can witness traditional ceremonies and performances.
Insider travel tips: Climbing during the week rather than the weekend will be less crowded. Pack warm clothes for the summit, and plan accordingly for the altitude change.
For the best views, climb at night and reach the summit just before sunrise.
2. Izu Peninsula
A scenic peninsula on the east coast of Japan’s main island, Honshu.
What to see or do: Enjoy hot springs, visit a traditional fishing village, hike in national parks, and take in ocean views.
Don’t miss: Shirahama Beach, Shimoda Park, and the Jogasaki Coast.
Insider travel tips: Rent a car or take a bus to easily access all the attractions. Try the local seafood, especially the famous Izu shrimp.
Visit in the spring to see cherry blossoms or in the fall to see vibrant foliage.
3. Hakone
Hakone is a scenic town located in the Shizuoka prefecture of Japan that is known for its hot springs, natural beauty, and cultural landmarks.
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
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4. Lake Ashinoko
Lake Ashinoko is a picturesque lake located in the Hakone National Park in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: You can enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the calm waters of Lake Ashinoko while taking in the stunning views of Mt.
Fuji, the surrounding hills and the charming Hakone Shrine. You can also hike along the trails surrounding the lake for a serene escape into nature.
Don’t miss: The Hakone Ropeway, a scenic cable car ride that takes you over the mountains from Lake Ashinoko to Owakudani Valley.
Also, don’t miss the opportunity to admire the charming red torii gate of the Hakone Shrine, located on the shore of the lake.
Insider travel tips: Visit Lake Ashinoko during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy the scenic beauty in peace.
Also, make sure to try the local specialty, kuro-tamago, black eggs boiled in hot sulfuric springs, which is said to add seven years to your life!
5. Miho Museum
The Miho Museum is a museum located in a secluded area in the Shiga Prefecture, Japan, featuring a collection of ancient art and artifacts from around the world.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s collection, which includes impressive displays of art and artifacts from diverse cultural and historical periods. You can also take a walk around the museum’s beautiful premises and enjoy the surrounding nature.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the museum’s signature exhibit, which displays a striking collection of ancient Egyptian antiquities. Also, make sure to check out the custom architecture of the museum building, which was designed by renowned architect I.
M. Pei.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in a remote area in the mountains, so it’s best to plan your transportation beforehand.
6. Numazu Deep Sea Aquarium
Numazu Deep Sea Aquarium is an aquarium located in Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, that showcases the marine life of the Suruga Bay.
What to see or do: Visitors can see a wide range of sea creatures, ranging from tiny seahorses to massive tuna fish. The aquarium’s main attraction is its Kuroshio Tank, one of Japan’s largest indoor aquariums, featuring rare and exotic deep-sea creatures.
Visitors can also witness dolphin and sea lion shows, watch penguin feedings, and take a ride in a glass-bottomed boat.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the Kuroshio Tank, where visitors can view the mysterious and mesmerizing deep-sea creatures like the giant spider crab, jellyfish, and sunfish.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early to avoid crowds and have more opportunities to take photos of the unique creatures.
7. Shimizu Port
Shimizu Port is a bustling port located in the city of Shizuoka in Japan. It is one of the busiest ports in the country and serves as an important hub for trade and tourism.
What to see or do: – Take a stroll along the harbor and enjoy the views of the sea and mountains.
Don’t miss: – The panoramic views of Mt. Fuji from the observation deck.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in the morning to see the fish market at its busiest and freshest.
8. Shizuoka Sengen Taisha Shrine
Shizuoka Sengen Taisha Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Shizuoka, Japan.
What to see or do: The shrine is dedicated to three goddesses and has a rich cultural and architectural history.
Visitors can admire the impressive torii gates that mark the entrance to the shrine, explore the tranquil gardens and ponds, and see the impressive collection of artifacts that reflect the shrine’s long history.
Don’t miss: The main hall of the shrine, which dates back to 1604 and features intricate wood carvings and paintings.
Also, be sure to check out the various festivals and events held throughout the year, including the spectacular procession of the 47 ronin samurai.
Insider travel tips: If you want to avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays.
Additionally, if you are interested in Japanese history and culture, consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience and learn more about the shrine’s significance.
9. Tokaido Hiroshige Museum
The Tokaido Hiroshige Museum in Shizuoka is a museum dedicated to the ukiyo-e artist Ando Hiroshige, who is famous for his series of prints depicting the Tokaido road, a major highway in Japan during the Edo period.
What to see or do: The museum houses a large collection of Hiroshige’s prints, including the complete set of Tokaido prints. Visitors can learn about Hiroshige’s life and his art through various exhibits and displays.
There is also a workshop where visitors can try their hand at making their own prints.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the viewing room, where visitors can see high-quality digital reproductions of all 53 prints in Hiroshige’s Tokaido series, giving a sense of what it was like to travel along the ancient highway during the Edo period.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is a short walk from Yui Station on the Tokaido Line.
10. Nihondaira Ropeway
A scenic ropeway ride that takes you to the top of Nihondaira hill in Shizuoka, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy panoramic views of Suruga Bay, Mount Fuji, and Shizuoka city from the cable car.
Once you reach the top, explore Nihondaira plateau and its many attractions, such as the Nihondaira Zoo, the Tokaido Hiroshige Museum of Art, and the Nihondaira Yume Terrace shopping mall.
During cherry blossom season, the plateau is covered in beautiful pink flowers, creating a stunning sight.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking views of Mount Fuji on a clear day.
You can also try traditional Japanese tea and sweets at one of the many tea houses located on the Nihondaira plateau.
Insider travel tips: To avoid long lines, it’s best to visit during weekdays and arrive early in the morning. If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, consider hiking up to the plateau instead of taking the cable car.
There are several trails of varying difficulties to choose from, and the views along the way are spectacular.
11. Sunpu Castle Park
A historical park featuring the ruins of the Sunpu Castle built in the 16th century.
What to see or do: Walk around the park and admire the reconstructed castle tower, the moats, and gates. Visit the nearby museum to learn about the history of the castle and the region.
Don’t miss: The stunning view of Mount Fuji from the top of the castle tower and the beautiful cherry blossoms during spring.
Insider travel tips: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and take comfortable shoes for walking around the park. Travel to the park by using the Shinkansen from Tokyo, which takes only 90 minutes.
Try local snacks like castella cake and shirasu-don (rice bowl topped with baby sardines) at the nearby market.
12. Kawazu Seven Waterfalls
A series of waterfalls located in the town of Kawazu, Shizuoka prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Experience the beauty of nature by hiking along the trail that leads to each of the seven waterfalls. The trail is relatively easy, taking around two hours to complete.
Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and swimming in the natural pools.
Don’t miss: The most impressive waterfall, Nanadaru Waterfall, which drops over 30 meters into a deep pool. Also, make sure to explore the nearby Kawazu Sakura (cherry blossom) Festival if visiting during the springtime.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring extra clothes and towels if planning to swim. It is recommended to visit during the weekdays to avoid crowds, and to bring insect repellent during the summer months.
13. Atami Castle
Atami Castle is a replica of a traditional Japanese castle located in Atami, Shizuoka Prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s five floors and enjoy stunning views of Atami Bay from the observation deck at the top of the castle.
Don’t miss: The castle’s interior features museum exhibits showcasing samurai armor and weaponry, as well as traditional Japanese art.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, visit during spring or fall when the surrounding foliage is at its most vibrant. Be prepared to climb steep stairs to reach the top, but the views are worth the effort.
14. Kawaguchi Lake
Kawaguchi Lake is a picturesque lake located in the town of Fujikawaguchiko, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. It is also one of the five lakes that surround Mount Fuji.
What to see or do: There are plenty of activities to do around Kawaguchi Lake, including boating, fishing, and camping.
You can visit the Lake Kawaguchi Museum to learn more about the history of the lake and the surrounding area, or take a stroll along the lake’s promenade to take in the stunning views of Mount Fuji.
Additionally, the lake is surrounded by beautiful cherry blossom trees, which offer a breathtaking sight during the spring months.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take a boat ride on the lake to get a different perspective of Mount Fuji.
The Kachi Kachi Ropeway, which takes you to the top of a nearby mountain, offers panoramic views of both the lake and the mountain.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your trip during the weekdays, as weekends and holidays can get very crowded with tourists.
15. Oigawa Railway
A historic railway in Shizuoka, Japan, which has been operating since 1888.
What to see or do: Take a scenic ride on a steam locomotive through the beautiful Oi River Valley and enjoy the stunning views of mountains and rice paddies.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to visit the railway museum, which has a collection of vintage steam locomotives and the chance to try your hand at driving a miniature steam train.
Insider travel tips: Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season, and try to get a seat on the right-hand side of the train for the best views.
Don’t forget to try the bento box lunch you can buy on the train, which is made with local ingredients and is delicious!