Shizuoka City, Shimizu, Yaizu

Travel Recommendations for Shizuoka City, Shimizu, and Yaizu, Japan

Shizuoka City:

Sightseeing:

1. Sumpu Castle: Explore the ruins of Sumpu Castle, once the residence of the famous shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, and visit the adjacent Sumpu Park.
2. Shizuoka Sengen Shrine: Visit Shizuoka Sengen Shrine, a historic shrine with beautiful architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
3. Nihondaira: Take a cable car ride to Nihondaira, a scenic plateau offering panoramic views of Mount Fuji, Suruga Bay, and the city skyline.
4. Shizuoka City Tokaido Hiroshige Museum of Art: Discover the works of Hiroshige Utagawa, a renowned ukiyo-e artist, and learn about the history of the Tokaido Road.

Dining:

1. Shizuoka Oden: Try Shizuoka-style oden, a hot pot dish featuring various ingredients like tofu, vegetables, and fish cakes simmered in a flavorful broth.
2. Shizuoka Oyster: Indulge in fresh oysters from Suruga Bay, renowned for their taste and quality.

Lodging:

Find a range of accommodations in Shizuoka City, including hotels, ryokans (traditional inns), and guesthouses, catering to different budgets and preferences.

Shimizu:

Sightseeing:

1. Miho no Matsubara: Visit Miho no Matsubara, a picturesque pine tree grove and sandy beach known for its association with Japanese mythology and stunning views of Mount Fuji.
2. Shimizu Port: Explore Shimizu Port, a vibrant fishing port where you can observe the daily activities of fishermen and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.

Dining:

1. Shimizu Sushi: Taste delicious sushi made with fresh seafood caught from Suruga Bay at local sushi restaurants in Shimizu.

Lodging:

Consider staying at one of the accommodations available in Shimizu, such as hotels or guesthouses offering convenient access to the port and attractions.

Yaizu:

Sightseeing:

1. Yaizu Fisherman's Wharf: Visit Yaizu Fisherman's Wharf, a lively waterfront area with a seafood market, restaurants, and shops selling local products.
2. Kogawa Water Park: Enjoy the beautiful scenery and walking trails at Kogawa Water Park, known for its waterfalls and natural surroundings.

Dining:

1. Yaizu Unagi: Try Yaizu-style grilled eel, known for its tender texture and flavorful sauce, at local restaurants in Yaizu.

Lodging:

Look for accommodations in Yaizu, including hotels and guesthouses, providing a comfortable stay during your visit.

Hot Springs:

While Shizuoka City, Shimizu, and Yaizu don't have hot springs within their immediate vicinity, you can find hot spring resorts in nearby areas like Atami or Izu Peninsula.

Souvenirs:

1. Shizuoka Tea Products: Purchase high-quality Shizuoka green teas and tea-related products as souvenirs.
2. Local Seafood Products: Look for dried fish, canned seafood, or other local seafood specialties as edible souvenirs from Shimizu and Yaizu.

Please check specific opening hours and availability of attractions, as well as any travel restrictions or guidelines in place during your visit. Enjoy your trip to Shizuoka City, Shimizu, and Yaizu!

Specialties, Local Foods, Restaurants, and Souvenirs in Shizuoka City, Shimizu, and Yaizu

Shizuoka City:

Specialties and Local Foods:

1. Shizuoka Oden: Shizuoka City is known for its delicious oden, a simmered dish consisting of various ingredients like daikon radish, tofu, and fish cakes. You can find oden stalls and restaurants throughout the city.
2. Sakura Shrimp Donburi: Shizuoka City is famous for its sakura shrimp, which is often served in a bowl of rice as a donburi dish. Enjoy the delicate flavor of these tiny shrimp.
3. Shizuoka Mandarin Oranges: Shizuoka is also known for its citrus fruits, particularly mandarin oranges. Try the locally grown oranges or look for products like marmalades and desserts made with them.

Highly Rated Restaurants:

1. Toraji Shizuoka: This restaurant specializes in yakiniku (Japanese barbecue) and offers high-quality beef and other grilled items. Enjoy a flavorful and interactive dining experience.
2. Sushi Nomura: Sushi Nomura is a popular sushi restaurant in Shizuoka City. They serve fresh and well-crafted sushi made with local seafood.

Shimizu:

Specialties and Local Foods:

1. Shimizu Tuna: Shimizu is famous for its tuna. Try different preparations of tuna, such as sashimi, sushi, and grilled tuna collar.
2. Unagi (Eel): Shimizu is also known for its delicious unagi (freshwater eel). Enjoy grilled eel served over rice or as part of a set meal.

Highly Rated Restaurants:

1. Sushi Yama: Sushi Yama is a highly regarded sushi restaurant in Shimizu. They offer a wide selection of fresh sushi and sashimi.
2. Hamatomo Suisan: This seafood restaurant in Shimizu is known for its excellent seafood dishes, including grilled fish and sashimi.

Yaizu:

Specialties and Local Foods:

1. Yaizu Maguro (Tuna): Yaizu is renowned for its tuna fishing industry. Try the fresh and flavorful Yaizu maguro in various forms like sashimi, sushi, or maguro donburi.
2. Anago Meshi: Anago meshi is a local specialty of Yaizu, featuring grilled conger eel served over rice.

Highly Rated Restaurants:

1. Yamakatsu Sushi: Yamakatsu Sushi is a popular sushi restaurant in Yaizu. They serve a wide variety of sushi made with fresh seafood, including Yaizu maguro.
2. Ikiya: Ikiya is a local restaurant that specializes in anago meshi (grilled conger eel). Enjoy their delicious rendition of this Yaizu specialty.

Souvenirs:

1. Shizuoka Tea: Look for high-quality Shizuoka green tea, including loose leaf tea or tea bags, as a flavorful souvenir.
2. Tuna Products: Consider buying canned or vacuum-sealed tuna products, such as tuna flakes or preserved tuna, as a unique food souvenir.
3. Local Crafts: Yaizu is known for its production of traditional Japanese crafts like ceramics and lacquerware. Look for locally made pottery or lacquerware items as souvenirs.

As you explore Shizuoka City, Shimizu, and Yaizu, be sure to visit attractions like Sunpu Castle, Miho no Matsubara, and Shimizu Port to experience the local culture and scenic beauty. Enjoy the local specialties, dine at highly rated restaurants, and bring back souvenirs to remember your trip to this vibrant region.

Festivals and Events in Shizuoka City, Shimizu, and Yaizu

Spring:

1. Shizuoka Festival (Shizuoka City): Held in April, this festival showcases the local culture and traditions through parades, performances, and exhibitions. One of the highlights is the Daidogei World Cup, a street performance competition that attracts artists from around the globe.
2. Shimizu Port Festival (Shimizu): Taking place in May, this festival celebrates the maritime heritage of Shimizu. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, fireworks displays, boat races, and a variety of seafood delicacies.
3. Yaizu Hatsu Uma Festival (Yaizu): Held in late March or early April, this horse racing festival features exciting races at Yaizu Racecourse. Visitors can experience the thrill of betting on horses and enjoy local food stalls and entertainment.

Summer:

1. Daidogei World Cup in Shizuoka (Shizuoka City): Known as one of the world's largest street performance festivals, this event brings together talented performers from various countries to entertain the crowds with acrobatics, juggling, music, and more. It usually takes place in early June.
2. Shimizu Minato Matsuri (Shimizu Port Festival): This annual festival in August celebrates Shimizu's port and fishing industry. Enjoy traditional dances, taiko drum performances, fireworks displays, and a lively parade.
3. Yaizu Bonito Festival (Yaizu): Held in late July, this festival pays tribute to Yaizu's renowned bonito fish. Experience bonito cutting demonstrations, taste local dishes, and join in the lively dancing and music performances.

Fall:

1. Shizuoka Matsuri (Shizuoka City): Celebrated in October, this grand festival showcases the city's rich cultural heritage with traditional parades, floats, music, and dance performances. Local delicacies and arts and crafts are also featured.
2. Miho no Matsubara Moon Viewing Festival (Shimizu): Taking place in September or October, this festival offers a magical experience of watching the full moon over the scenic Miho no Matsubara beach. Enjoy tea ceremonies, traditional music, and dance performances.

Winter:

1. Shizuoka Winter Illuminations (Shizuoka City): From late November to December, the city lights up with stunning winter illuminations at various locations. Take a stroll through the illuminated parks and streets, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
2. Yaizu Kuroshio Winter Festival (Yaizu): Held in December, this festival celebrates Yaizu's Kuroshio Current, which brings rich marine resources. Enjoy fresh seafood, traditional performances, and a fireworks display by the sea.

Special Features:

• Shizuoka City: Known for its proximity to Mount Fuji, Japan's iconic volcano. The city offers several viewpoints and tours to enjoy the majestic beauty of Mount Fuji.
• Shimizu: Famous for its picturesque port area, where visitors can witness the bustling maritime activities and enjoy fresh seafood from local markets and restaurants.
• Yaizu: Renowned for its high-quality seafood, particularly bonito. The city is home to the Bonito Museum, where visitors can learn about the fishing industry and enjoy bonito-related exhibits and activities.

When planning your visit to Shizuoka City, Shimizu, and Yaizu, make sure to check the specific dates and details of the festivals and events as they may vary each year. Enjoy your sightseeing experience in this vibrant region of Japan!

Climate and Temperature in Shizuoka City, Shimizu, and Yaizu

Shizuoka City:

• Spring (March to May): Spring in Shizuoka City is mild and pleasant. March sees temperatures ranging from around 6°C (43°F) to 14°C (57°F). By May, temperatures increase further, with average highs reaching around 22°C (72°F) and lows around 13°C (55°F). Cherry blossoms bloom during this season, providing a picturesque atmosphere for sightseeing.
• Rainy Season (June to July): Shizuoka City experiences the rainy season from June to early July. The weather becomes more humid, and rainfall is frequent. Temperatures range from 23°C (73°F) to 28°C (82°F). It's recommended to carry an umbrella and rain gear during this period.
• Summer (July to September): Summers in Shizuoka City are hot and humid. Average highs range from 30°C (86°F) to 34°C (93°F) in July and August, with nighttime temperatures around 22°C (72°F). It's important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the heat. You can enjoy the nearby beaches and coastal areas during this season.
• Fall (October to November): Fall in Shizuoka City brings comfortable weather and vibrant autumn foliage. Temperatures start to cool down, ranging from 19°C (66°F) in October to 12°C (54°F) in November. It's a great time to explore parks, gardens, and nearby natural attractions to witness the stunning colors of the season.
• Winter (December to February): Winters in Shizuoka City are relatively mild. Average temperatures range from 6°C (43°F) to 11°C (52°F). While not as cold as northern regions of Japan, it's still advisable to pack warm clothing. You can explore indoor attractions like museums and enjoy hot springs in the area.

Shimizu:

The climate and temperatures in Shimizu are similar to those in Shizuoka City since Shimizu is a ward within Shizuoka City. Therefore, the seasonal patterns and temperature ranges remain consistent.

Yaizu:

• Spring, Rainy Season, Summer, and Winter: The climate and temperatures in Yaizu are also similar to those in Shizuoka City and Shimizu, as all three areas are located in close proximity.

Special Features:

• Mount Fuji: Shizuoka City offers excellent views of Mount Fuji, one of Japan's most iconic symbols. You can find various viewpoints and scenic spots to admire the majestic mountain.
• Miho Peninsula: Located in Shimizu, the Miho Peninsula is known for its stunning coastal landscapes, including Miho no Matsubara, a pine tree grove designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It offers panoramic views of Mount Fuji and the Suruga Bay.
• Yaizu Port: Yaizu is famous for its fishing industry, and Yaizu Port is one of Japan's major fishing ports. You can visit the port to witness the bustling activity, explore seafood markets, and try fresh seafood dishes.
• Shizuoka Sengen Shrine: Located in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Sengen Shrine is a historic and culturally significant shrine. It features beautiful architecture and tranquil surroundings, offering a glimpse into Japan's traditional religious practices.
• Tea Plantations: Shizuoka is renowned for its tea production, and you can find tea plantations scattered throughout the region. Visit tea farms, participate in tea ceremonies, and sample high-quality Japanese green tea.

These are some of the highlights of Shizuoka City, Shimizu, and Yaizu. Each area offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights, making them appealing destinations for sightseeing in Shizuoka Prefecture.