Shizuoka

Shizuoka Prefecture is a tourist destination that spreads out at the foot of "Mt. Fuji," the symbol of Japan, boasting abundant nature and deep history. The Izu Peninsula in the east is appealing for its beautiful coastline and atmospheric hot spring towns, and has been designated a UNESCO Global Geopark. Renowned hot springs such as Shuzenji and Atami have soothed many travelers since ancient times. In terms of history, must-see spots for history fans are scattered about, including Sunpu Castle Park, where Tokugawa Ieyasu lived in retirement, and Kunozan Toshogu, which enshrines him. The view of Mt. Fuji from Miho no Matsubara, a World Heritage site, is as beautiful as an ukiyo-e print. The food is not to be missed. In addition to green tea, for which the prefecture is among Japan's top producers, you can enjoy a wide variety of flavors, including sakura shrimp, which in Japan are caught only in Suruga Bay, fresh shirasu, eel from Lake Hamana, and hugely popular local fare such as the hamburger steaks of "Sawayaka" and Shizuoka oden. Blessed with a mild climate and abundant bounty from sea and mountains, Shizuoka is one of Japan's leading resort areas, where you will find something new no matter how often you visit.