BEYOND THE SHADOW OF FUJI
SHIZUOKA’S UNTOLD STORIES
When winter fades and cherry blossoms begin, it’s time for Shizuoka to unveil its hidden treasures. This lesser-known region offer an authentic Japanese experience beyond the typicaltourist trail. Picture yourself sipping freshly brewed greentea amid rolling plantations, wandering along riverbankspainted pink with cherry blossoms, admiring Mount Fujifrom perfectly framed viewpoints, and ending each daywith a soothing soak in a traditional ryokan onsen.
EXPERIENCE AUTHENTIC JAPANESE CHARM IN THE SPRING SEASON
Shizuoka – More Than Just Mount Fuji
Located just an hour by Shinkansen from Tokyo or Nagoya, Shizuoka is perfect for both day-trippers and those seeking a longer escape. If you’re exploring without a rental car, the Mt. Fuji-Shizuoka Area Tourist Pass Mini is your best friend. For just 6,500 yen, you’ll enjoy three days of unlimited access to trains, buses, and ferries throughout the prefecture.
While most know Shizuoka as home to Mount Fuji, this prefecture boasts rich historical significance as the birthplace of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of Japan’s prosperous Edo period. The region earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 2013 and produces Japan’s finest green tea. Make a trip between March and April when the weather turns warm, cherry blossoms bloom, and Fuji’s peak remains crowned with snow to create the perfect backdrop for your adventure.
Shizuoka Experiences: What not to Miss
KUNOZAN TOSHOGU SHRINE: This magnificent shrine honors Tokugawa Ieyasu, whose shogunate ruled Japan for over 250 years. Skip the 1,159 steps and take the scenic 5-minute ropeway from Nihondaira instead. You’ll be rewarded with exquisite Edo-style architecture featuring intricate gates and towers showcasing ancient Japanese artistry.
NIHONDAIRA YUME NO TERRACE: This “Dream Terrace” sits 307 meters above sea level with a glass observation deck extending from the mountainside. The panorama captures Mount Fuji, Suruga Bay, and Shizuoka city in one breathtaking sweep. The upstairs café serves authentic Shizuoka green tea with a perfect view of Fuji against the sky.
URUI RIVER: During cherry blossom season, this spot becomes magical, offering the perfect trifecta: pink cherry blossoms, crystal-clear water, and Mount Fuji all in one frame. For the best photos, head to Ryoganbuchi Bridge before 10 a.m. to avoid backlighting.
PERFECT ENDING: ATAMI ONSEN
We concluded our journey at century-old Atami Onsen Taiseikan, a seaside ryokan embodying traditional Japanese hospitality. Soaking in hot springs while gazing at the ocean washes away all tension. The evening kaiseki dinner showcases fresh local seafood, each dish reflecting the season’s bounty. After dinner, stroll through the Japanese garden in your yukata before a final nighttime soak in the onsen – the perfect end to your Shizuoka adventure.
If you’re seeking a journey that rejuvenates both body and spirit, Shizuoka awaits. And if you can’t visit this year, start planning for next spring – this hidden corner of Japan deserves a place on every traveler’s lifetime list
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