Shizuoka, Japan-3-day-itinerary

Shizuoka Travel Itinerary (3 days)

Day 1: Explore Shimoda

Morning

  • 9:00 am: Start your day at the beautiful Kadowakizaka Beach, a serene spot for a morning stroll. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and perhaps take a dip in the ocean.

Afternoon

  • 11:30 am: Visit the historic Hikuma Castle (entrance fee: 500 yen). While it might not be as grand as other castles, its peaceful surroundings make up for it.

Evening

  • 6:00 pm: For dinner, head to Shimoda’s city center and try some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. A recommendation is Sushi No Sato or similar eateries around the area.

Night

  • 8:30 pm: End your day with a leisurely walk along Shimoda’s charming streets, perhaps stopping for an ice cream or dessert if you feel like it.

Day 2: Visit Hamamatsu

Morning

  • 9:00 am: Begin your second day by visiting the impressive Hamamatsu Castle (free admission). This castle offers great views of the city and a glimpse into Japan’s history.

Afternoon

  • 12:30 pm: After exploring the castle, take a break for lunch at one of the many restaurants in the vicinity. You might want to try some local specialties like tonkatsu.

Evening

  • 6:00 pm: Continue your exploration of Hamamatsu by visiting the lively Shirakaba Park, known for its beautiful cherry blossoms during spring.

Night

  • 8:30 pm: For dinner, consider going to a restaurant that serves traditional Japanese dishes. Places like Gyokuro offer great food in a unique setting.

Day 3: Explore Shizuoka City

Morning

  • 9:00 am: Start your last day by visiting the beautiful Shirakabeso-en Garden, located within Shirakaba Park (admission fee applies). This garden features a variety of plants and flowers.

Afternoon

  • 12:30 pm: Take some time for lunch at one of Shizuoka City’s restaurants. You might want to try some local delicacies or go back to your favorite eatery from the previous days.

Evening

  • 6:00 pm: Spend your last evening in Shizuoka visiting the city’s main shopping street and perhaps do some souvenir shopping for friends and family.

Night

  • 8:30 pm: For a fitting end to your trip, enjoy a dinner at a restaurant that serves dishes you’ve been wanting to try throughout your journey.

Where to Stay

Shimoda:

  • Hotel Miyuki: A convenient place to stay with easy access to the beach and other local attractions.

Hamamatsu:

  • Daiwa Roynet Hotel Hamamatsu: Offers comfort and is strategically located for visiting various points of interest in the city.

Shizuoka City:

  • Hotel Kichiya: Provides a cozy atmosphere and is near shopping districts and other key locations.

Transportation

  • Train: Regular train services connect Shimoda, Hamamatsu, and Shizuoka. Using these trains is convenient for getting around without renting cars.

  • Bus: Buses are available in each city but might be less frequent than trains. They can be used for shorter trips or as a supplement to public transportation.

Tips

  • Always carry some cash with you because not all places accept credit cards, especially smaller restaurants and shops.

  • Consider purchasing an IC card like the ICOCA card, which can be used on many public transport systems throughout Japan.

  • Respect local customs, particularly when visiting temples or castles. Dress modestly and follow any instructions provided by staff.

Other Interests

  • Shirahama Onsen: A hot spring area located in Shimoda that’s perfect for a relaxing soak.

  • Hamamatsu Flower Park: Features beautiful gardens and flowers, especially during peak blooming seasons.

This itinerary provides a mix of relaxation and exploration, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of Shizuoka without feeling overwhelmed.