Shizuoka Japan 2 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Shizuoka
Morning:
- Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Ichiran Shizuoka Tenma Branch, famous for its individual serving booths.
- Visit the Shizuoka Sengen Shrine to experience the tranquility and beauty of a traditional Japanese shrine.
Afternoon:
- Head to Mt. Fuji 5th Station (TODO: Check for COVID-19 related restrictions) for breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and surrounding landscapes.
- Explore the Shizuoka City Shimizu Port Area with its beautiful ocean view, shopping streets, and the iconic Sagacho Bridge.
Evening:
- Enjoy a seafood dinner at Izakaya Aka or Suzuya Honten, both offering fresh, local seafood dishes.
- Take a relaxing dip in one of the many onsen (hot springs) in Shizuoka city like Yumura Yudanaka Onsen or Shabondama no Yu.
Day 2: Discovering Shizuoka’s Green Tea and Samurai Heritage
Morning:
- Begin your day with a visit to Oigawa Railways for a scenic train ride through the beautiful Oigawa Valley.
- Stop by Kawane Sencha Tea Plantation to learn about and taste Shizuoka’s famous green tea.
Afternoon:
- Visit the Hamamatsu Castle Ruins Park, where you can walk through the castle ruins and enjoy a panoramic view of Hamamatsu city.
- Explore the Samurai Residence and Gardens of Hamamatsu to get a glimpse into the lives of the samurai who once lived here.
Evening:
- Have dinner at Hamamatsu’s Kajiyama District known for its delicious local cuisine, particularly Hamamatsu Soba.
- Spend your last evening in Shizuoka at the Shizuoka Ghibli Park, a theme park dedicated to the works of Studio Ghibli, Japan’s premier animation studio.
Transportation:
- Shizuoka has an extensive public transportation network with buses and trains connecting the major cities. Consider getting a Shizuoka Rail Pass for unlimited travel on JR Shizuoka lines during your stay.
Tips:
- Shizuoka is known for its green tea and citrus fruits, make sure to buy some as souvenirs.
- Always remove your shoes when entering a Japanese home or traditional building, and follow other cultural norms as appropriate.
- English may not be widely spoken outside major tourist areas, having a translation app can be helpful.
- Respect local customs and traditions to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable trip for yourself and those around you.
Where to Stay:
- Hotel Granvia Shizuoka offers modern, comfortable accommodations in the heart of Shizuoka city.
- Hamamatsu Prince Hotel provides a convenient base for exploring Hamamatsu and its surroundings.