Shizuoka Hotels

Thanks to rolling green-tea fields providing a refreshing contrast from its typically urbanised heart (this is Japan we’re talking about after all), Shizuoka is the kind of place where you’ll find yourself relaxing without even needing a cup of the hot stuff. Look in one direction and you have the expansive Suruga Bay, while in the other stretch the Minami Alps. Which makes you feel that in Shizuoka, you are walking around in a rather beautiful sandwich.

With the snow-capped peak of nearby Mount Fuji visible on clear days, the natural splendour of the area speaks for itself. A settlement for centuries, Shizuoka offers the perfect blend of Japanese beauty, history, culture and contemporary life. So put the teacup down and get exploring…

SHIZUOKA’S TOP 10

SHIZUOKA EVENTS

In April, the colourful Shizuoka Festival brings flowers, hundreds of performers and lots of fun and games to the city.

The streets are again filled with colour in May for the Shizuoka Samba Carnival. Its parade is a real highlight.

In July, the sky lights up for the Abe River Fireworks.

Watch local dance groups compete at the Shizuoka Odakkui Festival.

The Daidogei World Cup in November is the premier event for street performers and is guaranteed to keep you entertained – step right up and gather round!

WHEN TO GO

· Shizuoka experiences a typically oceanic climate.

· Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with average highs topping 30ºC (86ºF).

· Although winter temperatures can drop down to near freezing, it rarely snows in Shizuoka.

GETTING AROUND

· Buy a ticket and jump on-board one of the ‘resort trains’ that are specifically designed to transport visitors to the most popular tourist destinations.

· Shizuoka also features plenty of tourist buses that are a good way of getting bearings – and learning something along the way.

· To take in all the coastal sights the bay has to offer, you’ll have to go by boat.

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