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Shizuoka Prefecture is one of the areas that has become increasingly popular among foreign tourists visiting Japan in recent years. Easily accessible from the Tokyo metropolitan area, this region boasts a variety of attractions, including spectacular views of the World Heritage Site Mt. Fuji, delicious tea, hot springs, traditional crafts, beautiful nature, and historical buildings. There are also many lesser-known spots. In this article, we'll introduce in detail the spots and experiences worth visiting for foreigners visiting Shizuoka as part of a domestic trip, focusing on those offering English and other multilingual services and cultural experiences.

Basic Information about Shizuoka Prefecture: Location, Culture, and Climate

Shizuoka Prefecture is located on the Pacific coast of central Honshu, roughly halfway between Tokyo and Nagoya. It has a long, narrow shape stretching from east to west, and is blessed with nature, including the Izu Peninsula, Suruga Bay, Mount Fuji, and Lake Hamana.

A land where traditional Japanese culture and magnificent nature coexist

For foreigners, Tokyo and Kyoto tend to come to mind when they think of traveling to Japan, but Shizuoka is a place where the charms of both cities – modern convenience and traditional culture – are harmoniously combined.It is also an area where you can enjoy historic temples and shrines, easy-to-stop roadside stations, and art museums all at the same time.

Climate and best season

Shizuoka has a mild climate and you can enjoy the different faces of the seasons. You can enjoy cherry blossoms in spring, swimming in the sea in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and the spectacular snow-capped view of Mt. Fuji in winter. The months of October to February are especially recommended for foreign tourists, as Mt. Fuji is at its most beautiful.

Access methods

It's easily accessible from Tokyo, about an hour by Shinkansen. The area is well-connected by public transportation, including the JR Tokaido Line, Shizuoka Airport, and expressways. Access guides from various cities are available in English at various information centers and on the official website.

Tourist spots for foreigners: Recommended areas

Shizuoka Prefecture is dotted with tourist destinations that are appealing to foreigners. Among these, we will introduce areas that are particularly well-equipped with language support, easy access, and cultural experiences.

Mount Fuji Area: A World Heritage Site Symbolizing Japan

The area around Mount Fuji is a popular destination for foreign tourists. Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine in Fujinomiya City is surrounded by a sacred atmosphere and is a sacred place perfect for experiencing Japanese culture. There are plenty of pamphlets and audio guides available in foreign languages.

Miho no Matsubara: Experience the world of ukiyo-e in live action

Miho no Matsubara, located in Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City, is famous for its legend of a heavenly maiden and rows of pine trees, and is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The view of Mt. Fuji from the coast is exceptional, and it is also a very popular photo spot. Multilingual information boards have been installed, making it an easy place for foreigners to visit.

Izu Peninsula: A fusion of hot springs, nature, and art

Izu is an area that has an extremely good reputation among foreigners. It is a place where you can experience traditional Japanese relaxation and enjoy activities such as outdoor hot spring baths, strolling along Jogasaki Coast, and glass and pottery crafts. Many inns offer English support, and some even offer Muslim-friendly meals.

Hamamatsu: City of Music and Technology

Hamamatsu, known as the birthplace of Yamaha, offers a musical instrument museum and factory tours. There are plenty of facilities for families with children to enjoy, such as the Unagi Pie Factory and the Air Park adjacent to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force base. Multilingual signs have been installed around the station to attract inbound tourists.

Experience programs for foreign tourists

Rather than simply visiting tourist spots, you can deepen your understanding of the area by experiencing it. Shizuoka Prefecture is also putting a lot of effort into this type of experiential tourism.

Shizuoka tea picking and tasting experience

Shizuoka is synonymous with tea. The experience of actually picking tea leaves in the tea fields and brewing and tasting your own tea is extremely popular among foreigners. An increasing number of farms are now offering guided experiences that explain not just the "tea ceremony" but "everyday tea culture" in foreign languages.

Sushi making experience in Yaizu

Another popular experience is making sushi using fresh seafood from Yaizu Port. With an English instructor, you can make your own nigiri sushi and rolled sushi, and get a real feel for the techniques used by the chefs. Some facilities even offer vegan sushi, and efforts are being made to accommodate religious and other preferences.

Ninja and Samurai Experience: In Numazu and Shizuoka City

There is also a dojo where you can experience the "ninja" culture, which is popular overseas. There are experience plans where you can rent costumes and learn how to throw simple shuriken and fight. There is also an area where you can take photos, making it a popular spot for taking Instagram-worthy photos.

Inbound tourism and the evolution of hospitality

As the number of foreign tourists increases, Shizuoka Prefecture is promoting multilingual support, free Wi-Fi, and vegetarian options.

Multilingual support and signboards

Major tourist destinations are making progress in providing services in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean, and English-speaking staff are available in train stations and tourist information centers. Translation apps for smartphones are also being provided in conjunction with tourism.

The spread of Wi-Fi and cashless payments

In Shizuoka Prefecture, most facilities near major stations offer free Wi-Fi and accept credit cards. Alipay and WeChat Pay are also accepted for Chinese tourists, making the area just as convenient as the Tokyo metropolitan area.

Increasing number of Muslim and vegan restaurants

The number of Muslim-friendly restaurants and vegan restaurants is gradually increasing, especially in Shizuoka City and Numazu City. There is also a growing consideration for food culture, and there is a deeper understanding of physical and religious backgrounds.

Recommended accommodations: selected from a foreigner's perspective

Choosing the right accommodation is also important for a comfortable trip. Below are some accommodations that we selected based on reviews from foreigners, their customer service, and the quality of their facilities.

Experience-based inn: A long-established inn in Shuzenji Onsen

At accommodations that offer traditional Japanese experiences that are popular with overseas visitors, you can enjoy things like yukata, tatami mats, and lodging in a Japanese-style room, as well as the hospitality of matcha tea. Many ryokans have owners who can speak English, and they have received high praise on overseas review sites.

Guesthouse & Backpackers in Hamamatsu

Guesthouses are always popular with budget-conscious travelers, and are ideal for workcations and long-term trips. They also serve as a place for international exchange, with multilingual exchange events held regularly.

Conveniently located souvenir spots and recommended goods

Choosing souvenirs is essential for creating lasting memories of your trip. We've picked out products unique to Shizuoka and items that will please foreigners.

Shizuoka tea related products

Not only the tea itself, but also matcha sweets and tea sets are popular. Products with English instructions are particularly easy to introduce overseas and are convenient to carry around.

Mount Fuji themed goods

Magnets, key chains, T-shirts, and other products with a Mount Fuji motif are sure to become a symbol of "The Japan."

Other ways to enjoy the area: interacting with locals

Participating in local events and festivals

Participating in local festivals, such as the Kawane Fire Festival or the Gotemba Fireworks Festival, is a great opportunity to experience Japanese culture firsthand. Event schedules in foreign languages are also available at tourist information centers.

Volunteer experiences and homestays

There are also areas where you can experience farming and stay with a host family. Young travelers in particular are increasingly using these facilities in search of local experiences.

summary

Shizuoka Prefecture is not yet as well known overseas as Kyoto or Osaka, but that's precisely why it's garnering attention as a valuable region where you can experience the "real Japan." With the World Heritage Site of Mount Fuji as its backdrop, this region offers hot springs, gourmet food, traditional experiences, and the warm hospitality of its people, making it a highly recommended destination for both first-time visitors to Japan and repeat visitors alike. With its evolving English-language support, consideration for diverse cultures, and fusion of nature and culture, Shizuoka is an ideal travel destination for anyone wanting to experience "another Japan."

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