Explore Shizuoka in Two Days: Creative Weekend Escape from Tokyo!

Explore the Central and Eastern Regions of Shizuoka, Japan: A Weekend Adventure Awaits

Central and Eastern Shizuoka, located in Japan's Chubu region, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences. A perfect destination for a weekend getaway from Tokyo, Shizuoka offers a diversity of attractions and activities for everyone to enjoy.

Key Attractions in Central Shizuoka

Kunozan Toshogu Shrine: This stunning Shinto shrine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, is accessible via a long stone staircase or the Nihondaira Ropeway, providing breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding area.
Nihondaira Ropeway: The cable car connecting Kunozan Toshogu Shrine to Nihondaira Plateau offers a mesmerizing aerial perspective of the region, especially during cherry blossom season.
Miho no Matsubara Beach (Miho Seacoast): A UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its scenic pine grove and stunning views of Mt. Fuji, Miho no Matsubara is an ideal location for a peaceful walk or photography enthusiasts.
Shizuoka Sengen Shrine: Surrounded by lush grounds and cherry trees, this large Shinto shrine complex in Shizuoka City is worth a visit.
Shimizu Port: A bustling port area with a variety of seafood restaurants and scenic harbor views, Shimizu Port is a great place to unwind and savor fresh, local cuisine.
Okuoikojo Station: Nestled amidst mountains and a lake, this picturesque train station presents a perfect opportunity for photography enthusiasts.
Satta-toge Pass: Famous for its iconic view of Mt. Fuji combined with a coastline and railway lines, Satta-toge Pass offers an unforgettable panoramic vista.
Nihon Daira Yume Terrace: With its panoramic views over the Shizuoka region, this scenic viewpoint and rest area provides a serene escape.

Highlights of Eastern Shizuoka (Izu Area)

Shuzenji Onsen: Known for its hot springs and traditional Japanese inns, Shuzenji Onsen is a popular resort town for relaxation and rejuvenation, surrounded by bamboo forests and mountains.
Beaches and Coastal Scenery: The Izu Peninsula boasts some of Japan's most beautiful beaches and dramatic coastlines, such as Atagawa and Dogashima, offering picturesque vistas and swimming opportunities.
Kinomiya Shrine (Atami): This historic Shinto shrine, located in Atami, is famous for its massive, ancient camphor tree believed to be over 2,000 years old and the annual Kogashi Matsuri festival in July.
Atami City: Known for its hot springs, beautiful summer beaches, and the MOA Museum of Art, which features traditional and contemporary Japanese art, Atami is a popular destination for both visitors and locals.

Additional Noteworthy Experiences

Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre, Shizuoka (Fujinomiya): This center offers interactive exhibits and panoramic views, helping visitors learn about Mount Fuji's cultural and natural significance.
Hot Springs (Onsen): Throughout the region, especially in Izu and Atami, you can enjoy thermal baths with scenic mountain or ocean views.
Nature Hikes and Coastal Walks: Explore the diverse landscapes, from volcanic mountains to pine-lined beaches, for a truly unforgettable experience.

With its captivating attractions and activities, Central and Eastern Shizuoka make for the perfect weekend getaway destination, offering history, culture, nature, and relaxation. Don't miss out on this hidden gem nestled within reach of Tokyo.

After visiting the Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, you can enjoy a hearty meal at the restaurants in Shimizu Port, sampling fresh local seafood.
From Shimizu Port, take the Nihondaira Ropeway to enjoy the stunning views of cherry blossoms from the Nihondaira Plateau.
Spend an afternoon exploring the cherry tree-filled grounds of Shizuoka Sengen Shrine, a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
Embark on a tour of Miho no Matsubara Beach, known for its scenic pine grove and iconic view of Mt. Fuji.
After a day of sightseeing, unwind at Shuzenji Onsen, a traditional Japanese inn in the Izu area, surrounded by bamboo forests and mountains.
Don't forget to take a dip in the hot springs at Atami, the beaches in the Izu Peninsula, or other onsen locations throughout the region.
Catch the annual Kogashi Matsuri festival held at Kinomiya Shrine in Atami, a celebration of Japan's cultural heritage.
Make a stop at the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre in Fujinomiya to learn about the cultural and natural significance of Mt. Fuji through interactive exhibits.
Plan your itinerary to include nature hikes and coastal walks throughout Central and Eastern Shizuoka, taking in the diverse landscapes and breathtaking views.
Keep an eye out for general-news events, festivals, and shopping opportunities during your travel in the Central and Eastern Regions of Shizuoka, Japan – a perfect destination for a weekend adventure.