For first-time visitors to Shizuoka, choosing the right area to stay is important to ensure easy access to the region's key attractions, transportation, and amenities. Here are some of the best areas and accommodation options for first-timers in Shizuoka:
1. Shizuoka City
- Why Stay Here: As the capital city of Shizuoka Prefecture, Shizuoka City offers excellent transportation connections, shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. It’s a central base for exploring the surrounding areas, including Mount Fuji and the Izu Peninsula.
- What to Do: Visit the Shizuoka Sengen Shrine, explore the Shizuoka City Museum of Art, and take in the views of Mount Fuji from Miho no Matsubara.
- Accommodation: Choose from a wide variety of accommodations, including luxury hotels like Hotel Gracery Shizuoka, mid-range hotels, or budget options such as capsule hotels and guesthouses.
2. Atami
- Why Stay Here: Located on the Izu Peninsula, Atami is a famous hot spring resort town known for its scenic coastline and relaxing onsen. It's perfect for those looking to unwind and experience a traditional Japanese hot spring experience.
- What to Do: Visit Atami Onsen, stroll through Atami Plum Garden, and explore the Atami Castle for stunning views of the area.
- Accommodation: Stay in a ryokan (traditional inn) with an onsen for an authentic experience. Popular choices include Atami Sekitei and Furuya Ryokan. For a more modern experience, you can opt for hotels like Atami Korakuen Hotel.
3. Izu Peninsula (Izu, Shuzenji)
- Why Stay Here: The Izu Peninsula is famous for its stunning coastline, beautiful beaches, and hot springs. Towns like Izu and Shuzenji offer a blend of traditional ryokan stays and modern accommodations in a scenic setting.
- What to Do: Explore the coastal beauty of Jogasaki Coast, relax in the hot springs of Shuzenji Onsen, and visit the Izu Shaboten Zoo in the Izu Highland area.
- Accommodation: Ryokan-style hotels, like Shuzenji Onsen or Izu Marriott Hotel Shizuoka, offer an authentic onsen experience. If you prefer a more urban vibe, you can stay in hotels like Izu Hakone Guesthouse.
4. Hamamatsu
- Why Stay Here: Located in western Shizuoka, Hamamatsu is known for its industrial history, musical heritage (home to Honda and the Kawai piano factory), and beautiful natural attractions like the Lake Hamana.
- What to Do: Visit the Hamamatsu Castle, stroll around Lake Hamana, and explore the Act City Hamamatsu, a cultural complex with shopping and entertainment.
- Accommodation: Stay near Hamamatsu Station for easy access to transportation. Popular hotels include Hotel Associa Hamamatsu and budget options like Super Hotel Hamamatsu.
5. Fujinomiya (Mount Fuji Base)
- Why Stay Here: For those who want to experience the beauty of Mount Fuji, Fujinomiya is a great base. The town offers easy access to hiking trails and scenic views of the mountain.
- What to Do: Visit Fujinomiya Sengen Shrine, explore Fujisan World Heritage Center, and hike the lower trails of Mount Fuji.
- Accommodation: There are various budget-friendly guesthouses, hotels, and traditional ryokan options in Fujinomiya. Hotel Green Plaza Hakone is a great mid-range option, or for a traditional experience, try a ryokan like Fujinomiya Onsen.
6. Shuzenji (Izu Highlands)
- Why Stay Here: Shuzenji is located in the heart of the Izu Peninsula, offering a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature. It is famous for its hot springs and tranquil ambiance, making it perfect for relaxation.
- What to Do: Visit Shuzenji Temple, take a walk along the Shuzenji Bamboo Forest Path, and soak in one of the area’s many hot spring baths.
- Accommodation: Stay in a traditional ryokan like Shuzenji Onsen Ryokan or Izu Marriott Hotel Shuzenji for a luxurious hot spring experience.
7. Kakegawa
- Why Stay Here: Kakegawa is a small city in western Shizuoka, known for its historical sites like Kakegawa Castle and beautiful Kakegawa Kachou-no-Yu, a famous bird-themed hot spring.
- What to Do: Visit Kakegawa Castle, explore the surrounding gardens, and enjoy the Kakegawa Kachou-no-Yu for a relaxing hot spring experience.
- Accommodation: Hotel Kakegawa offers a comfortable stay with easy access to local attractions. For those looking for something unique, stay at Kakegawa Kachou-no-Yu, which offers an onsen and a more nature-centric experience.
General Tips for First-Time Visitors in Shizuoka:
- Accessibility: Choose accommodations close to train stations (like Shizuoka Station or Hamamatsu Station) for ease of access to major transportation routes.
- Booking in Advance: For stays during peak seasons (especially around Mount Fuji or the Izu Peninsula), it’s recommended to book your accommodation early to secure the best spots.
- Ryokan Experience: If you want a truly traditional experience, consider staying at a ryokan (Japanese inn), where you can enjoy tatami floors, futons, and authentic meals.
Summary:
For first-time visitors to Shizuoka, staying in Shizuoka City provides easy access to major attractions, transportation, and shopping. If you're looking for a more relaxing experience, Atami, Shuzenji, and Izu Peninsula offer scenic beauty, hot springs, and tranquility. For those interested in Mount Fuji, Fujinomiya is an ideal location, while Hamamatsu is perfect for history and nature enthusiasts. Each area offers a unique experience, so consider your interests and travel preferences when choosing where to stay.
