Local Customs & Etiquette in Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan
1. Tea Ceremony in Shizuoka
Experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony in Shizuoka, known for its high-quality green tea. Savor the tranquility and harmony as you learn the intricate steps.
- Patience: Understand the importance of patience in the slow, deliberate movements during the ceremony.
- Respect: Recognize the deep respect for nature and the host demonstrated throughout the ceremony.
- Purification: Observe the purification process before the tea-making begins, emphasizing cleanliness and simplicity.
2. Salt Production in Izu
Visit the ancient salt fields of Izu for a unique look into Shizuoka's traditional salt production. Learn about the manual process and taste the delicious sea salt.
- Manual Process: Understand the labor-intensive process of manually raking and drying the salt.
- Sea Salt Quality: Appreciate the high quality of Izu's sea salt, known for its delicate flavor and aroma.
- Historical Significance: Discover the historical significance of salt production in Shizuoka's coastal communities.
3. Kabuki Theater in Hamamatsu
Witness the dramatic performances at the Kabuki theater in Hamamatsu. Learn about the unique acting styles and appreciate the intricate costumes.
- Unique Acting Styles: Understand the exaggerated gestures, vocalizations, and makeup used in traditional Kabuki performances.
- Costume Appreciation: Admire the elaborate and detailed costumes worn by actors during performances.
- Local Interpretations: Recognize how Kabuki theater in Hamamatsu has been influenced by local culture and traditions.
4. Izakaya Etiquette
Enjoy a casual meal at an Izakaya (Japanese pub). Understand the proper etiquette, such as ordering by shouting and sharing dishes.
- Shouting Orders: Get used to shouting your order to the chef, a common practice in Izakayas.
- Shared Dishes: Learn about the custom of sharing dishes and enjoying a variety of small plates with your group.
- Payment Customs: Understand that you may be expected to pay for all items when you order, or to pay as you go in some Izakayas.
5. Shizuoka Matsuri (Festival)
Participate in the vibrant and lively Shizuoka Festival. Enjoy traditional dances, music, and food, as well as the beautiful floats.
- Traditional Dances: Watch local performers dance in traditional costumes during the festival.
- Food Stalls: Indulge in delicious food and snacks from various street vendors.
- Beautiful Floats: Admire the intricately decorated floats, each representing a different district or group.
6. Mt. Fuji Viewpoints
Visit the scenic viewpoints around Shizuoka to capture breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji. Understand the importance of this iconic mountain in Japanese culture.
- Iconic Symbol: Recognize Mt. Fuji as a significant symbol of Japan and its role in Shinto religion.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning photographs of Mt. Fuji at sunrise or sunset, with the surrounding landscape.
- Historical Significance: Learn about the historical significance of Mt. Fuji and its role in Japanese art, literature, and mythology.
7. Sake Tasting
Participate in a sake tasting to learn about the local brewing process and taste different varieties of Shizuoka's famous sake.
- Brewing Process: Understand the traditional methods used for sake production in Shizuoka.
- Variety of Sakes: Taste various types of sake, from crisp and dry to rich and sweet.
- Pairing with Food: Learn about the traditional pairings between different sakes and various foods.
8. Onsen Etiquette
Relax in a local onsen (hot spring) and learn about the proper etiquette. Enjoy the tranquility and rejuvenate your body.
- Nudity: Get comfortable with the custom of bathing naked in the onsen.
- Cleanliness: Understand the importance of cleanliness and washing before entering the onsen.
- Body Positioning: Learn about the correct body positioning to maintain while in the onsen.
9. Kowai-chan Street Food
Taste unique street food in Kowai-chan district of Shizuoka. Enjoy local specialties like grilled squid and oden (hot pot).
- Local Specialties: Try traditional dishes that are unique to the Kowai-chan district.
- Street Food Experience: Enjoy the lively atmosphere and interactive food stalls in this bustling area.
- Nightlife: Experience the vibrant nightlife, with many food stalls open late into the evening.
10. Morning Markets
Visit local morning markets to experience the bustling atmosphere and sample fresh produce. Interact with locals and learn about the regional specialties.
- Fresh Produce: Purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and other local products directly from farmers.
- Cultural Interaction: Connect with locals and learn about their culture by visiting the morning markets.
- Local Specialties: Discover unique regional specialties that you won't find anywhere else.
11. Obon Festival
Participate in the Obon festival, a time to honor deceased ancestors. Experience traditional dances, music, and lantern floats.
- Honoring Ancestors: Learn about the significance of honoring deceased ancestors during Obon.
- Community Gathering: Participate in a community gathering and share in the joy of this traditional festival.
- Beautiful Lantern Floats: Admire the beautiful lantern floats, each representing a different family or group.
12. Sake Brewery Tours
Take a tour of a local sake brewery to learn about the production process and taste various types of sake.
- Production Process: Understand the traditional methods used for sake production.
- Tasting Opportunities: Taste different varieties of sake, each with its unique flavor profile.
- Local History: Learn about the history of sake brewing in Shizuoka and its significance to local culture.
13. Izu Peninsula Hiking
Explore the stunning landscapes of Izu Peninsula by hiking through its beautiful trails. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views and visit hot springs along the way.
- Natural Beauty: Marvel at the diverse landscapes, from mountains to coastlines, on your hike.
- Hot Springs: Relax in hot springs along your hiking route and rejuvenate your muscles.
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for wildlife such as monkeys, deer, and various bird species.
14. Kanagawa Kenpaku Matsuri (Samurai Festival)
Attend the Kanagawa Kenpaku Matsuri, a reenactment of a medieval samurai parade. Witness impressive displays of martial arts and traditional music.
- Martial Arts: Watch skilled performers demonstrate their martial arts techniques.
- Traditional Music: Enjoy the traditional music and drumming that accompanies the festival.
- Historical Reenactment: Learn about the history of samurai in Shizuoka through this reenactment.
15. Odori-no-kobashi Street
Walk along Odori-no-kobashi street to experience the vibrant nightlife of Shizuoka. Enjoy local cuisine, shopping, and entertainment.
- Local Cuisine: Savor delicious local dishes from a variety of restaurants along the street.
- Shopping: Find unique souvenirs and items, many exclusively available in Shizuoka.
- Entertainment: Enjoy live music, street performances, and other entertainment options.