Overview
The city of Shizuoka, located between Tokyo and Nagoya, is easily accessible by bullet train, the Shinkansen, with a travel time of just 60 minutes. Its mild climate allows visitors to enjoy its historical sites and wonderful scenic spots, perfect for taking pictures of Mt. Fuji throughout the year.
Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo feudal government, spent a significant portion of his life here. He was raised and educated in Shizuoka from the age of 2 to 19 and later returned to live out his retirement, from age 65 to 75. It is said he chose this place not just for its strategic location between Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto, but also because he loved the mild climate, abundant nature, and the kind-hearted people of Shizuoka.
Ieyasu’s castle remains in the city center today, while his mausoleum was established on Mt. Kuno, a scenic location 10.5 km (6.5 miles) away. From this final resting place, he is believed to be watching over the city, wishing for its prosperity.
Must-see spots
Nihondaira Plateau Yume Terrace
The wooden observation tower, named “Yume Terrace,” stands on the summit of the Nihondaira Plateau. It commands a panoramic view of Mt. Fuji along with the cities of Shizuoka and Shimizu Port. On a clear day, you can enjoy a perfect view of Mt. Fuji, the Izu Peninsula, the Southern Japanese Alps, and Suruga Bay.
On the south side of the bay, you can also see a long peninsula, named Miho, with a stunning line of 3,000 pine trees along the beach. Nihondaira is rightfully chosen as one of “the finest views of Japan.” The night view from the plateau is equally wonderful. There is even a tea plantation area near the tower where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of tea gardens with Mt. Fuji in the background.
Miho beach with 3,000 pine trees
Miho Pine Tree glove is known as one of the fine views to take pictures of Mt. Fuji. The cruise ship travelers often visit here with Nihondaira, which I described above. The glove was originally planted to prevent the strong sea breeze from the beach, but now a lot of people, including the nearby school kids who visit there for an outing with a lunch box, visit the beach. The black volcanic sand is precise and the beach is usually mild because of its location in the Sugura Bay. There is a visitor’s center named “Miho-Shigube” near the parking lot where you can watch two short movies about the Pine Tree glove and its relation with Mt. Fuji.
Sunpu Castle Park
Sumpu Castle Park is a place known to all residents of Shizuoka. The main highlight of the park is its cherry blossom festival in April.
This park holds a special significance as it was the place where Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo feudal government, spent both his youth and his retirement. He is said to have enjoyed viewing the cherry blossoms here with his followers.
During the Spring Festival, a large procession is held featuring actors and TV celebrities dressed as Ieyasu and his retainers. Under the hundreds of cherry trees, people gather to enjoy food and drinks while appreciating the blossoms. Many food stalls and shops also open during the festival, adding to the festive atmosphere.
We recommend that you ask a local tour guide to guide you around the area. If you are looking for a guide, please click the Application Form button in the header menu, fill it in, and send it to contact us. For details, please refer to Searchguides.com below.
More Information (Links to other sites)
Access
- One hour from Tokyo or Nagoya by SHINKANSEN Hikari Super Express
