
Best Time to Visit Popular Destinations in Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan
1. Mount Fuji
Experience the iconic beauty of Mount Fuji with snow-capped peaks. Best time: December to February.
- Snowy Peaks: Marvel at the breathtaking sight of snow-covered Mount Fuji.
- Clear Skies: Enjoy clearer views of Mount Fuji during winter due to lower humidity.
- Winter Clothing: Prepare for cold weather when visiting during winter.
2. Fuji Five Lakes
Discover the enchanting beauty of five interconnected crater lakes. Best time: Late April to early May.
- Cherry Blossoms: Witness the stunning sight of cherry blossoms around the lakes.
- Tourist Crowds: Avoid peak tourist crowds by visiting in late April to early May.
- Boat Rides: Explore the lakes via boat rides during this season.
3. Shiraito Falls
Witness the stunning Shiraito Falls cascading down a cliff of 150 meters. Best time: Late spring to early summer.
- Water Flow: Enjoy full water flow at the falls during late spring to early summer.
- Night Illumination: Experience the magical night illumination of the falls.
- Hiking Trails: Explore nearby hiking trails to enjoy surrounding nature.
4. Izu Peninsula
Relax on pristine beaches and indulge in hot springs at the Izu Peninsula. Best time: July to August.
- Beach Season: Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beach activities during summer.
- Hot Spring Resorts: Indulge in hot springs at various resort towns along the peninsula.
- Festivals: Experience local festivals like Atami Fire Festival and Izu Tanabata Festival.
5. Oshino Hakkai
Explore eight crystal-clear springs at Oshino Hakkai, a village nestled at the foot of Mount Fuji. Best time: Late autumn to early winter.
- Scenery: Enjoy stunning scenery with snow-covered Mount Fuji in the background.
- Onsen: Relax in hot springs after a day of exploring the village.
- Night Lights: Experience night lights illuminating the village and springs.
6. Kunozan Toshogu Shrine
Visit the ornate Kunozan Toshogu Shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu. Best time: Late autumn.
- Autumn Foliage: Enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage surrounding the shrine.
- Intricate Carvings: Admire the intricate carvings and detailed artwork on the shrine.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Experience a peaceful atmosphere at the shrine during late autumn.
7. Shimada City Cherry Blossom Festival
Join the celebration of over 200 cherry blossom trees at Shimada City. Best time: Late March to early April.
- Cherry Blossoms: Witness the beautiful blooming of over 200 cherry blossom trees.
- Local Culture: Experience local traditions and cultural events during the festival.
- Food Stalls: Indulge in delicious local food and drinks at the festival's food stalls.
8. Sumpu Art Museum
Explore the Sumpu Art Museum showcasing works by Japanese and international artists. Best time: All year round.
- Art Collection: Admire a vast collection of artworks from various periods and styles.
- Temporary Exhibitions: Check the museum's calendar for temporary exhibitions during your visit.
- Architecture: Appreciate the modern architecture of the museum building.
9. Lake Hamanako
Enjoy various water activities at Lake Hamanako, Shizuoka's largest lake. Best time: Summer.
- Water Sports: Participate in water sports such as boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Scenery: Enjoy the beautiful scenery of mountains and islands surrounding the lake.
- Food Markets: Visit local food markets for fresh seafood and regional delicacies.
10. Hamamatsu Castle
Discover the beauty of Hamamatsu Castle, a well-preserved feudal castle. Best time: Late autumn to early winter.
- Historical Significance: Learn about the history and significance of Hamamatsu Castle.
- Autumn Foliage: Enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage surrounding the castle.
- Castle Town: Explore the nearby castle town with traditional architecture and shops.
11. Hamamatsu Flower Park
Marvel at over 700 varieties of roses at Hamamatsu Flower Park. Best time: Late May to mid-June.
- Rose Varieties: Witness the beauty of over 700 varieties of roses.
- Flower Shows: Attend flower shows and workshops during your visit.
- Scenery: Enjoy the picturesque scenery of the park and surrounding mountains.
12. Izu-Hadano Geopark
Explore Izu-Hadano Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark with unique geological formations. Best time: All year round.
- Geological Formations: Discover the park's unique geological formations and volcanic history.
- Nature Trails: Explore nature trails through the park, taking in stunning views along the way.
- Local Culture: Experience local culture and traditions at nearby villages and towns.
13. Fujieda Sengen Shrine
Visit the historic Fujieda Sengen Shrine, a key shrine dedicated to Mount Fuji. Best time: Early February.
- Shrine History: Learn about the history and significance of Fujieda Sengen Shrine.
- Festival: Experience the annual festival held at the shrine during early February.
- Mount Fuji Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji from the shrine grounds.
14. Shizuoka Sake Breweries
Experience the art of sake brewing at traditional sake breweries in Shizuoka. Best time: All year round.
- Sake Tasting: Participate in sake tastings and learn about the brewing process.
- Historic Breweries: Visit historic breweries with centuries-old traditions.
- Local Culture: Experience the rich culture and history of sake in Shizuoka.
15. Suruga Bay Aquarium
Discover a vast array of marine life at Suruga Bay Aquarium. Best time: All year round.
- Marine Life: Witness a variety of marine life, including whale sharks and penguins.
- Interactive Exhibits: Participate in interactive exhibits to learn more about the marine environment.
- Educational Programs: Attend educational programs and workshops during your visit.