Shizuoka: Mt. Fuji’s Overlooked Neighbor Full of Castles, Tea, and Ocean Views

Shizuoka: Mt. Fuji’s Overlooked Neighbor Full of Castles, Tea, and Ocean Views

[Music] shizoka Prefecture where Japan’s natural beauty cultural charm and a touch of Mount Fuji magic all come together nestled between Tokyo and Nagoya Shizoka is often passed through but rarely explored and that’s a huge mistake this is the land of lush green tea fields steaming onen towns ancient shrines and coastline views so stunning they look straight out of a painting oh and did we mention you get some of the best views of Mount Fuji in the entire country from quiet fishing villages to the energy of Shizoka City and Hamamatsu this underrated gem has something for everyone so before we uncover the sights tastes and secrets that make Shizoka truly unforgettable don’t forget to like subscribe and hit the bell so you never miss an adventure with us shizoka is where breathtaking nature meets deeprooted tradition known for its green tea onsen and some of the most iconic views of Mount Fuji Shizoka is a peaceful yet powerful presence in Japan’s story it sits within the diverse Chubu region which is divided into four vibrant sub regions tokai where Shizoka thrives with coastal cities historic hot springs and crucial links between Tokyo and Kyoto koshinetsu home to mountain passes and ancient trade routes hokuriku known for its dramatic coastline and snowy charm chukio anchored by Nagoya a hub of industry and innovation shizoka Prefecture is where mountains motors and matcha collide in one stunning stretch along central Honshu’s Pacific coast home to over 3.5 million people it’s a land of contrasts peaceful tea fields beside roaring racetracks quiet temples nestled near booming cities shaped like a golden fish Shizoka glides along the sea with the Izu Peninsula as its tail and the majestic Mount Fuji gleaming along its spine from Suruga Bay Japan’s deepest to Lake Herman’s shimmering waters nature takes center stage here the capital city Shizoka offers tradition and Fuji views while Hamamatsu the largest city buzzes with innovation and music it’s also a paradise for gear heads birthplace of Honda Suzuki and Yamaha and home to the legendary Fuji Speedway from sacred shrines to screaming engines Shizoka blends serenity and speed like nowhere else Shizoka Prefecture stretches like a ribbon along the Pacific with ocean on one side and dramatic mountains on the other to the west it dives into the Japanese Alps to the east it narrows beneath Mount Fuji before blooming into the Izu Peninsula famous for hot springs beaches and coastal hikes nature lovers will find paradise here over 11% of Shizoka is protected park land from the Fuji Hakonei Zoo region to the forests of Tenryu Okumikawa and the towering Manami Alps with four distinct seasons Shizoka offers everything from cherry blossoms in spring to snowcapped Fuji views in winter [Music] summers are hot and perfect for beaches and fireworks autumns are crisp and colorful with fiery foliage but beauty comes with a reminder cheese sits on restless earth a magnitude 6.2 quake hit in March 2011 just days after the Tohoku disaster locals live with the knowledge that big quakes tend to return every century still each season in Shizoka tells a new story from the scent of fresh tea in spring to steaming onen baths beneath winter skies it’s a place where nature speaks in every moment long before it was Shizoka this region was known as Fu a samurai stronghold tied to power and tradition but when the Maji government rose eager to modernize Japan the name had to go why fu echoed an unfortunate homonym disloyal not ideal for a new national image in 1869 officials considered Shizuoka low hill inspired by nearby Shizu Hatayyama near Tokugawa Yasu’s Sunpu Castle but the kanji for shizu could mean shabby or vulgar again not great enter poet Mukayyama who offered a fix change the kanji to mean quiet or peaceful and simplify the name shizoka quiet hill ironically there’s no hill by that name it was a poetic invention a hopeful symbol for a new era rising from the samurai age today Shizoka is known for tea coastlines onsen and Matt Fuji views but behind its calm name lies a tale of power politics and poetry a reminder that even peace can be born from rebellion [Music] shizoka’s history runs deep long before it earned its modern name human activity here dates back to the Paleolithic era with early settlements like Yasua and Oshi Kakubo and continues through Jon and Yayoi times at sites like the Shijimizuka Shell Mound and Toro ruins by the Kofen period powerful clans were building massive burial mounds like Mikuryama and Shizu Hatagayyama signaling a society rich in ritual and rank in the N period Shizoka became part of the Yamato state with provincial temples and government hubs like Totoi Kokubunji and Shida Ganga anchoring imperial control by the Han and Kamakura eras it was both sacred and strategic home to key temples like Ganjou Inn and vital mountaintop fortresses like Yamanaka Castle and Kunoan guarding the roads between coast and capital during the Sangoku period Shizoka was a fiercely contested land dotted with castles like Kokuji Takatenjin and Futamata each central to feudal power struggles at the heart of this chaos was a boy named Tokugawa Yayyasu raised in Su modern-day Shizoka city under the watch of the Imagawa clan those early years shaped a future shogun after rising to unify Japan Yayyasu reclaimed Sumpu retiring there after handing day-to-day rule to his successor though Edeto became Japan’s political capital Su remained a symbolic seat of Tokugawa power before it became Shizoka Prefecture the land was known as Suruga Totoi and Izu names still echoed in local culture when the samurai age ended in 1868 Su was reborn as Shizoka Han once again home to the Tokugawa family marking the end of an era and the birth of the modern prefecture shizoka’s role as a crossroads dates back to the Edo period when it thrived along Japan’s main highway landmarks like Arai barrier Utsunoya pass and Shimadajuku recall the lords merchants and even Korean envoys who traveled through in the late Ado and Bakumatsu eras Shizoka became a center for reform and technology the Nayyama reverberatory furnace symbolized Japan’s industrial push while Shimoda’s Guusenji hosted the first US consulate and the 1858 Harris Treaty opened Japan to foreign trade after the fall of the Shogunate in 1868 Sumpu became the Shizoka domain a new home for the Tokugawa family in 1869 the city was renamed Shizoka Quiet Hill a name meant to mark a peaceful break from its samurai past by 1885 it was officially incorporated quickly modernizing with the Tokaido road and the port of Shimezu turning it into a vital trade hub uniting the old provinces of Totoi Suruga and Izzu modern Shizoka Prefecture honors its legacy through lush green tea fields juicy mandarin oranges and a history that bridges feudal Japan and the modern world today the Prefecture is a living museum of Japan’s past layered with ancient settlements grand castles sacred temples and echoes of global diplomacy from prehistoric shell mounds to the shadow of Mount Fuji Shizoka’s history is as vast and varied as its landscape shizoka’s history isn’t locked in textbooks it’s alive in castle ruins sacred shrines and sweeping mountain views from ancient Kofen tombs to the rise of the Tokugawa shogunat this is a place you walk through not just read about mount Fuji may not be climbable from Shizoka but it’s always in sight peeking over tea fields onsens and coastlines it’s the ultimate photo bomber especially from Mihon no Matsubara a black sand beach straight out of a painting and part of a UNESCO world heritage site shizoka’s city explore the ruins of Su Castle once home to Tokugawa Yasu then ride the Nihandara ropeway to Kunozan Toshogu Shrine his final resting place the shrine dazzles with gold and carvings and the mountaintop views of Suruga Bay are worth everyone of the 1,159 stone steps or just take the cable car nearby Shimizu Port blends maritime history with modern fun grab seafood at local markets cruise the harbor or shop at Espulse Dream Plaza all under the watchful gaze of Fuji for families Nihonara Zoo houses over 700 animals from red pandas to Siberian tigers with all weather exhibits perfect rain or shine looking for something surreal take the Oawa Railway to Okojo Station a remote platform that appears to float above Lake Ceso the route includes Japan’s only appraken pinion system crossing the red Okoy Rainbow Bridge for unforgettable mountain and lake views don’t miss the Satogue Pass a short trail along the old Tokaido Road that delivers one of Japan’s most iconic views Mount Fuji towering over Suruga Bay just like in Hiroshi’s Ukioi Prince citrus groves wild flowers and golden light complete this timeless scene just minutes from JR Shimezu station Shimizu Fish Market serves up Suruga Bay’s freshest catch shop for seafood at Ichibakan then feast on tuna bowls and sashimi at Murokan from cherry shrimp to oysters cracked open on the spot its coastal flavor at its best with over 2,100 years of history Shizoka a Sen shrine honors the goddess of Mount Fuji and hosted Tokugawa Yasu’s coming of age ceremony rebuilt in Momoyama style its 26 lavish buildings shine with lacquer gold and intricate carvings a spiritual and architectural masterpiece once Yayyasu’s retirement home Sunu Castle lives on through faithfully reconstructed gates and turrets explore history at the Tatsumi Yagura then wander the park’s stone paths especially in spring when cherry blossoms blanket the grounds in pink art meets nature at Shizoka Prefectural Museum of Art featuring Monae Goa and top Japanese artists the highlight the Rodan Wing with 32 sculptures including the Thinker and the Gates of Hell plus a peaceful prominard lined with outdoor art inside Espaza this whimsical museum brings the world of Chibi Maruko Chan to life explore Marco’s home enjoy interactive displays and admire original art by Momoko Sakura don’t forget a photo with the golden Maruko statue follow the lantern lit alleys of Auba Odin Guy for a taste Shizoka’s soul food cozy stalls serve cheese style Odin a rich soy broth simmering black hanpen daikon and skewered goodies topped with green lever and dried fish flakes pure comfort food step into Japan’s Yayoi past at Toro Park home to reconstructed ancient dwellings rice patties and graneries next door the Toro Museum showcases excavated tools period clothing and hands-on activities that bring early agriculture to life floating above turquoise waters in Sumata Gorge Yumi Turibashi is a 90 m suspension bridge which feels like a dream especially in spring blossoms autumn leaves or winter mist legend says if you wish for love at the center it might come true hike the Sumatakio Prominard then unwind in a Sumatakio onsen mount Omuro is a perfect 580 m cinder cone on the IU Peninsula is unhikable to preserve its beauty but the chairlift ride up is part of the charm walk the crater rim for 360° views of Mount Fuji the Pacific and Izzu Islands try archery in a volcano and don’t miss the fiery Yamayyaki Festival each February at Mount Fuji’s base Shirito Falls spills like silk over a lava cliff fed by spring water its hundreds of delicate streams stretch 150 m wide and 20 m high a UNESCO World Heritage site it’s a serene photogenic escape into nature perched above Suruga Bay Seikkum Ji is a peaceful Renzai Zen temple dates back to the 7th century tokugawa Yasu studied here and it once hosted Korean envoys wander the Zen garden see the plum tree said to be planted by Yasu a marvel at the 500 expressive Raiken statues hidden near Umagashima Onen Abe Great Falls is an 80 m waterfall and is one of Japan’s top 100 hike 4 km roundtrip through forests and over three suspension bridges to reach this remote roaring beauty pure nature no crowds built in 1536 Renzai is a quiet Zen refuge where Yasu trained under Master Cesai Chorro its elegant main hall and Zen Garden are national treasures perfect for reflection and peace a city that sings with style Hamamatsu is home to Yamaha and Kauai earning UNESCO status as a creative city of music explore Hamamatsu Castle jam through the Museum of Musical Instruments chill at Lake Hamana or kitefly the Nakatajima Sand Dunes producing nearly 40% of Japan’s green tea Shizoka is tea heaven wander the Machino fields try tea picking and sip the freshest censure or matcha around at the Shizoka Tea Museum dive into workshops explore global tea history and unwind in a tea house with sweets and Fuji views bonus the cafe’s matchoba and desserts are mustries designed by Kangokkuma Nihandara Yumi Terrace offers 360° panoramas of Mount Fuji Suruga Bay and the Izu Peninsula sip local tea soak in the views and explore exhibits on the region’s rich history craving sun and sand the Izoo Peninsula delivers beaches hot springs and clear waters with Mount Fuji photobombing your vacation like a pro capy Baras in hot baths 1,500 plus cacti and five quirky green houses izu Shabotan Zoo is part zoo part botanical playground and 100% fun atami is a seaside escape where hot springs meet ocean views blending relaxation with retro charm stroll through sun soaked streets soak in a steamy onen and catch stunning sunsets over Sagami Bay it’s classic Japan with a coastal twist nishima Skywalk is Japan’s longest pedestrian bridge and stretches 400 m and rises 70 m above ground walk across for jaw-dropping views of Fuji Suruga Bay and the Izu mountains at Gota Prium Outlets shop over 290 stores including Gucci Nike and Iyaki with Mount Fuji as your backdrop japan’s biggest outlet mall is retail therapy with a view take a scenic break with Fuji views local produce and hearty regional eats at Asagiri Kogan Roadside Station a peaceful highland rest stop founded in 86 CE Fujisan Hongu Sen Taisha leads Japan’s 1,300 plus Sen shrines rebuilt by Tokugawa Yasu it features a grand Sen Zukuri Hall the serene Wakatama Pond and a statue of Minimoto No Yoritomo history nature and legend all in one place shizoka’s cuisine reflects its rich agricultural heritage and coastal location here are some local dishes and specialties you should try tiny pink and packed with umami sakura abi cherry blossom shrimp are a shizoka exclusive delicacy harvested only from Suruga Bay try them raw fried or a top rice for a taste of the sea’s rarest gems quinadai or golden eye snapper is a prized deep sea delicacy known for its tender buttery texture and rich flavor often served grilled or simmered this gleaming red fish melts in your mouth and is a must try for any seafood lover visiting coastal Japan hamamatsu’s Lake Hammana has been famous for unagi farming since 1887 enjoy tender canto style steamed and grilled or firm canai style grilled only all basted in sweet soy sauce and grilled to perfection these pan fried dumplings are arranged in a circle and filled with juicy cabbage onion and pork offering a sweeter lighter bite topped with boiled bean sprouts Hamamatsu gyoza is a post-war twist on a Chinese classic turn cheese favorite unlike its lighter cousins Shizoka Odin features a dark beef-based soy broth simmering skewers of daicon conjac and signature black handpen sardine cake topped with dried fish flakes and green lever it’s hearty savory and uniquely local freshly caught sharasu young sardines piled over warm rice garnished with ginger green onions and soy sauce shiraasu dawn is coastal simplicity at its best served raw just hours after the morning catch it’s pure ocean freshness in a bowl before you leave be sure to pick up some special souvenirs from Shizoka shizoka’s quirkiest souvenir Unagi Pie this golden flaky pastry from Shunado in Hamamatsu may look like a simple Milafuri but it’s secretly laced with eel extract butter and a hint of garlic dubbed the snack for nights it’s weird wonderful and a must-try bite of local pride producing nearly 40% of Japan’s green tea Shizoka is the country’s tea kingdom from deep rich hukamushi sensure to fragrant gakuro each sip reflects centuries of craft make sure to also go to Nanaya is a matcha lover’s dream famous for serving the world’s richest green tea gelato with intensity levels from mild to matchax from creamy scoops to luscious matcha parfets every bite bursts with bold earthy flavor straight from Shizoka’s finest tea leaves forget the fake tube stuff shizoka grows the real wasabi spicy and clean with a 400year legacy rooted in Utoi’s tatamishi method tour a wasabi farm try it freshly grated or dare to taste wasabi ice cream it’s weirdly sweet a little fiery and totally unforgettable a simple nostalgic treat akawa mochi is chewy rice cake dusted with sweet kanakaco roasted soybean flour a favorite since the Edo period it’s said to be named by Tokugawa Yayyasu or popularized by travelers along the Tokaido find it near Abekawa Bridge where old shops still serve it warm and fresh so there you have it shizoka Prefecture a place where samurai legends echo through ancient temples green tea tastes like a warm hug from nature and yes you really can eat eel flavored pastries at 10:00 a.m and call it culture from epic views of Fuji to seafood that melts in your mouth and culinary delights that challenge your pallet and your pride Shizoka isn’t just a destination it’s an experience if you loved this journey hit like smash that subscribe button and ring the bell and hey drop a comment would you try Unagi Pie we’ll see you in the next adventure

Think Mt. Fuji only belongs to Yamanashi? Think again.

Welcome to Shizuoka Prefecture — the land where Japan’s tallest mountain meets samurai castles, dramatic coastal cliffs, and the finest green tea in the country. Often overshadowed by Tokyo, Kyoto, and even Fuji’s northern face, Shizuoka quietly holds some of Japan’s most breathtaking views and richest history.

In this journey, we uncover:
– Why Shizuoka offers the best views of Mt. Fuji
– How it became Japan’s green tea capital
– The legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu and Sunpu Castle
– Hidden seaside gems from Shimoda to the Izu Peninsula
– A region shaped by nature, warlords, and waves

📌 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
01:02 – Overview
05:53 – History
10:10 – Where to Visit
20:19 – Culinary Delights
22:26 – Souvenirs
24:22 – Conclusion

Support & Follow:
👉 Support on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JourneyThroughHistory?utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator
👉 Behind-the-scenes clips on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@journey.through.h?_t=ZS-8xW6SRDpO3U&_r=1

📚 References & Further Reading:
• Lin, A., Shin, J.-H., & Kano, K. (2012). *Fluidized Cataclastic Veins along the Itoigawa-Shizuoka Tectonic Line*. [Journal of Geology](https://doi.org/10.1086/665795)
• Explore Shizuoka – Travel insights and regional features: [ExploreShizuoka.jp](https://exploreshizuoka.jp/en/inspirations/stories/spotlight/shizuoka-city-spotlight/)

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