Weird & Unusual Attractions in Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan

1. Ohamcho Fish Market

A market where fish are auctioned off while suspended in the air, a unique spectacle for visitors.

Vertical Auction: The only market in Japan where fish are auctioned vertically.
Excitement: Offers a thrilling experience as the bidding process is fast-paced and intense.
Local Interaction: Provides opportunities for visitors to interact with local fishermen.

A street lined with cherry blossom trees that turns into a tunnel of blooms during spring.

Seasonal Spectacle: Offers a breathtaking sight during the cherry blossom season.
Romantic Atmosphere: Ideal for romantic walks or picnics under the blooming trees.
Historical Significance: Located near a historic castle, it combines history and nature.

A massive torii gate that appears to float on water during high tide.

Water Level Optics: The floating illusion is created by the shrine's location near the shore.
Historic Significance: Has a long history dating back to the Edo period.
Photography Opportunities: Provides a great photo opportunity, especially during sunrise or sunset.

A pond with an unusual circular shape, created by a meteorite impact over 300,000 years ago.

Natural Phenomenon: Unique among the natural landmarks of Japan.
Legendary Story: Surrounded by local legends and myths about the meteorite impact.
Relaxation Spot: Offers a peaceful and picturesque spot for relaxation.

A town dedicated to sake brewing, with over 100 warehouses housing giant sake barrels.

Sake Brewing History: Home to a long history of sake brewing in Shizuoka.
Architectural Uniqueness: The warehouses, known as 'Kura', are architecturally unique and well-preserved.
Sake Tasting Opportunities: Offers numerous opportunities for sake tasting and learning about the brewing process.

A shrine where visitors can buy gold leaves to place on the deity's statue.

Religious Practice: A unique aspect of Japanese religious culture.
Symbolic Offering: Leaves are believed to carry one's prayers and wishes to the deity.
Historic Significance: The shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A skywalk offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Stunning Views: Provides a breathtaking view of the natural landscape.
Suspension Bridge Experience: A thrilling experience for those who fear heights or enjoy adventure.
Photography Opportunities: Offers amazing photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.

A castle rumored to be haunted by the ghost of its former lord.

Haunted History: The ghost stories add a unique and spooky aspect to the castle's history.
Historic Architecture: A well-preserved Edo period castle with beautiful architecture.
Ghost Tour Opportunities: Offers ghost tours for those interested in the paranormal.

A museum dedicated to ukiyo-e art, featuring over 30,000 works.

Ukiyo-e Art Collection: One of the largest collections of ukiyo-e in Japan.
Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits for a more immersive experience.
Ukiyo-e History and Culture: Provides insights into the history and culture of ukiyo-e art.

A park with hot springs that were once visited by Nobunaga Oda.

Historic Significance: Has a long history dating back to the Sengoku period.
Therapeutic Benefits: The hot springs are said to have therapeutic benefits.
Scenic Beauty: Set in a beautiful forested area, offering a serene and relaxing environment.

A park where you can view the ruins of Hamamatsu Castle lit up at night.

Nighttime Illumination: The castle ruins are beautifully illuminated at night.
Historic Architecture: Provides a unique perspective on the castle's architecture.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Offers a peaceful and reflective atmosphere at night.

A street offering traditional Shizuoka delicacies, including wasabi and green tea ice cream.

Local Delicacies: Offers a variety of local specialties.
Food Tasting Opportunities: Provides opportunities to taste unique and traditional Japanese foods.
Cultural Experience: Allows visitors to immerse themselves in Shizuoka's local culture.

A shrine where a fire festival is held, featuring the burning of enormous torii gates.

Fire Festival Experience: Offers a unique and exciting experience.
Historic Significance: The festival has been held for over 1,000 years.
Community Participation: Allows visitors to participate in the festival and learn about local traditions.

A theme park dedicated to shabu-shabu, a popular Japanese hot pot dish.

Theme Park Experience: Offers a fun and unique theme park experience.
Shabu-shabu Dining: Allows visitors to enjoy various shabu-shabu dishes.
Cultural Experience: Provides insights into the cultural significance of shabu-shabu in Japan.

A town completely dedicated to cherry blossoms, featuring over 400 varieties.

Cherry Blossom Variety: Offers a unique opportunity to see so many different cherry blossom varieties.
Seasonal Spectacle: Provides a breathtaking sight during the cherry blossom season.
Photography Opportunities: Offers amazing photo opportunities, especially for cherry blossom enthusiasts.