Day Trips from Shizuoka. Excursions, Nearby Cities, Tours

Nearby Exploration Spots

Mount Fuji (various viewing points and climbing routes): Approximately 1-2 hours by train or bus. Experience iconic views and challenging ascent routes.

Izu Peninsula: A scenic coastline, numerous hot springs (onsen), and tasty seafood await. Accessible by train (JR Ito Line, Izukyu Line) or car/ferry.

Other Destinations

Hamamatsu: Western Shizuoka city known for eels, musical instruments, and Hamamatsu Castle.
Atami: Coastal a tourist town on Izu Peninsula, famous for hot springs, beaches, and gardens.
Makinohara Plateau: Vast green tea plantations offer tea-picking experiences and scenic views.
Suruga Bay: Deepest bay in Japan, offering marine life and scenic cruises.

Getting There

Select from several transport methods to reach these nearby locations efficiently.

Routes to Mountains & Coast

Accessible by a mix of trains, buses, and ferries.

Transport Methods

Mount Fuji: Train (JR Tokaido Line to Fujinomiya/Gotemba, then bus) or direct bus.
Izu Peninsula: Train (JR Tokaido Line to Atami/Ito, then local lines) or car/ferry from Shimizu Port.
Makinohara Plateau: Direct bus services from Shizuoka or Shimada Stations.

City Connections

Rapid and Shinkansen services connect major cities.

High-Speed Options

Hamamatsu: Shinkansen (Kodama service) offers a fast journey.
Atami: Shinkansen (Kodama service) or JR Tokaido Line for direct access.
Other cities: Long-distance highway buses offer an economical choice.

Travel Considerations

Advantages

Scenic Routes: Choose routes with picturesque views for an enjoyable journey.
Local Flavors: Explore local eateries and special stores.
Public Transport Efficiency: Japan's train and bus networks are highly reliable.
Driving Flexibility: RENTING a car provides freedom for exploration.

Challenges

Peak Season Crowds: Expect more people at popular sites during busy travel periods.
Limited English Services: Some smaller towns may have fewer English-speaking staff.
Toll Road Costs: Expressway tolls can be expensive.
Parking Challenges: Finding parking in urban centers can be difficult.

Travel Times & Fares Estimated

Shizuoka to Atami (Shinkansen)Approx. 20-30 min / ¥2,000-¥2,500
Shizuoka to Hamamatsu (Shinkansen)Approx. 30-40 min / ¥2,500-¥3,000
Shizuoka to Fujinomiya (JR Line)Approx. 1 hour / ¥700-¥1,000
Shizuoka to Makinohara (Bus)Approx. 40-60 min / ¥800-¥1,200

Shimizu Port to Toi Port (Ferry)Approx. 65 min / ¥2,000-¥2,500
Shizuoka to Izu-Shimoda (Train)Approx. 2-2.5 hours / ¥3,500-¥4,500
Izu Peninsula Onsen Visit (Travel)Approx. 1-2 hours / Varies by destination
Mount Fuji volcano 5th Station (Bus)Approx. 2.5-3 hours / ¥3,000-¥4,000

Booking Excursions

Consider booking day trips and activities in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Online platforms present a range of guided tours and activity tickets. GetYourGuide: Day trip booking section

Seasonal Activities

Shizuoka's distinct seasons define its unique attractions and weather conditions.

Spring Beauty March-May

Mild temperatures ideal for cherry blossom viewing and exploring tea fields. Low precipitation and comfortable humidity.

Summer Vibrance June-August

Warm and muggy, with the rainy season from late June to mid-July. Offers summer festivals and coastal enjoyment.

Autumn Comfort September-November

Mild and pleasant weather with lower humidity. Suitable for outdoor activities and viewing autumn foliage.

Winter Clarity December-February

Cool to cold temperatures with arid conditions. This season has the clearest views of Mount Fuji.

Ideal Activities

Mount Fuji Views: Enjoy crisp, unobstructed views of the peak.
Winter Festivals: Discover local celebrations and illuminations.
Onsen Visits: Experience hot springs for warmth and relaxation.

Seasonal Highlights

Plan your visit around these iconic natural events.

Peak Times

Cherry Flowers: Late March to early April has stunning blooms.
Autumn Foliage: Late October to late November offers colors.
Green Tea Picking: The End of april to May provides hands-on experiences.

Weather Reminders

Rainy Season (Tsuyu)Mid-June to Mid-July, overcast skies and humidity.

Typhoon SeasonLate summer to early autumn (August-October), monitor forecasts.

Summer HeatJuly-August heat and humidity, hydration is wise.

Spring AllergiesPollen from cedar and cypress trees is prevalent.

Best View of FujiWinter months offer clearer mountain visibility.

Outdoor ComfortSpring and Autumn present ideal temperatures.

Weather Awareness

Check weather forecasts frequently, especially during typhoon season.
Carry rain gear during the rainy season and for unexpected showers.
Wear light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated in summer.
Layer clothing in spring and autumn for changing temperatures.
Pack warm attire for winter visits, especially for mountain views.

Entry & Budget

Japan maintains clear entry regulations, and Shizuoka City offers options for various travel styles.

Visa & Entry

Most short-term visitors from visa-exempt countries do not acquire a visa for stays up to 90 days.

Documents

Passport: Valid for your entire stay.
Return/Onward Ticket: Proof of your departure from Japan.
Funds Proof: Demonstrate money for your expenses.

Visa Applications

For non-exempt nationalities, obtain a temporary visitor visa before travel.

Application Details

Application Form: Complete and submit the required form.
Photographs: Provide passport-sized photographs.
Itinerary/Bookings: Include flight and hotel bookings.

Money & Currency

Japan uses the Japanese Yen (JPY, ¥). Cash remains useful for smaller establishments and rural areas.

Financial Access

Currency Exchange: Available at airports, major banks, and some hotels.
ATMs: Post offices and convenience stores accept international cards.
Credit Cards: Widely accepted in cities and larger establishments.

Budgeting Your Trip

Shizuoka City provides options for various travel budgets, from economical to luxury.

Daily Cost Estimates USD

Budget Traveler: $45 - $80 per day (hostel dorm, fast-casual dining, local transport).
Mid-range Traveler: $80 - $170 per day (business hotel, mid-range dining, some tours).
Luxury Traveler: $170+ per day (high-end hotel, fine dining, private transport).

Money-Saving Strategies

Practical tips for managing your expenses in Shizuoka City.

Local Eateries

Utilize convenience stores for affordable, good-quality meals and snacks. Look for lunch specials for better value.

Public Transport

Use local public transportation (bus and train) over taxis for cost management. Consider a Japan Rail Pass for extensive nationwide travel.

Accommodation Choices

Stay in business hotels or hostels for budget-friendly accommodation options.

Tipping Culture

Tipping is not usual in Japan; it can sometimes cause confusion or even be considered impolite. Lots of places include a service charge.

Health & Safety

Japan maintains high standards for public health and safety, making Shizuoka City a very safe destination.

Health Guidelines

1

Vaccinations

No routine vaccinations are officially required for admission to Japan. Ensure your standard immunizations remain current.

2

Health Concerns

Heatstroke in summer (July-August) is a consideration; stay hydrated. Seasonal allergies in spring are also present.

3

Healthcare Access

Japan has an excellent healthcare system with modern hospitals. Dial 119 for ambulance/fire, 110 for police.

Safety in Shizuoka

Japan boasts one of the lowest crime rates globally.
Shizuoka City offers a very safe environment for visitors.
Petty crime, like pickpocketing, is rare but use awareness in crowded areas.
No specific neighborhoods in Shizuoka City are known for high crime rates.
Walking around safely, also at night, is common.
Food hygiene standards are very high, tap water is safe to drink.

Natural Disaster Awareness

Earthquakes: Japan is in an active seismic zone; Shizuoka Prefecture is prone to activity.
Tsunamis: Coastal areas face a risk following major offshore earthquakes; warning systems exist.
Typhoons: Late summer to early autumn (August-October) brings strong winds and heavy rainfall.
Mount Fuji: Register for climbing during the season (July-September).
Emergency Procedures: Familiarize yourself with earthquake safety protocols: Drop, Cover, Hold On.
Stay Informed: Monitor weather predictions and local alerts.

Travel Insurance

Coverage

Travel insurance is encouraged for medical emergencies, cancelled trips, and lost luggage.

Natural Disasters

Ensure your policy covers potential disruptions from natural disasters like typhoons or earthquakes.

Activities

Verify your policy covers any planned activities, like mountain climbing or specific sports.

Emergency Contacts

Police: 110. Ambulance/Fire: 119. Keep your home country's embassy or consulate contact information handy.

Day Trips from Shizuoka